... on Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Zoology

Another alternative fourth year of study, following completion of a three-year degree, is the Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Zoology. This is a one-year full-time course that involves completion of a research project (50-75%) and coursework (25-50%). This program gives graduates with different academic backgrounds a chance to enter The University of Melbourne and complete a qualification that enables them to compete for entry into postgraduate study and for postgraduate scholarships. Flexibility in the entry and assessment criteria make this a particularly suitable pathway for graduates who fail to meet the stricter rules applied to the fourth year Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree. Completion of this program also provides graduates with an opportunity to strengthen their scientific qualifications before entering employment.

To be eligible for the course, a student must have a three-year degree with substantial biological science content. Industrial or other relevant experience may also be taken into account. The number of students that can be accommodated in the program is limited by the number of project supervisors available, the same pool of academics and associates provide Honours project supervision. The procedure for selection is the same as that for Honours and selected applicants move in parallel through their course with one of the Honours classes. The details of the Post Grad Diploma course are not listed separately as they are closely similar to those of Honours in most respects.

Submitting an application and making enquiries

(Australian and International applicants)

All students

In principle, you can submit an application without having discussed projects with potential supervisors but the department may then be unable to take your preferences into account, so it is better to open discussions with potential supervisors if you wish to retain some control over the outcome. You should note that while negotiations with Honours supervisors can be for either semester and take place at any time of year, supervisors fill most places for both semesters in the main negotiating period in second semester, because they have to plan well ahead.

Most offers are made when the University of Melbourne Faculty Honours Scores become available in early December and only applications received by the end of the first week in December are guaranteed representation in the main allocation round. Every attempt will be made to notify applicants before Christmas but negotiations for projects can continue and additional offers made until the courses start. Students who have not been notified should contact the coordinators for more information.

University of Melbourne Students

If you wish to accept your offer you must return the acceptance form to the Zoology Department by the date shown on the form. If you fail to do so your project may be offered to another applicant. Upon receipt of the acceptance the Department will request the Faculty to have an enrolment package mailed out. You have five working days from the mailing out of the papers to complete the enrolment. Because of the tight schedules involved you must ensure that the contact information we have is current at all times by updating it with the secretary to the Head of Department whenever it changes.

Students from other Australian Universities

All general application advice that applies to University of Melbourne Students regarding finding a supervisor and project applies to other Australian University students. Note, however the requirements for course and academic performance documentation that must accompany the application. The application is made to the Department of Zoology but a letter of offer is only sent out after the Faculty of Science has determined that you meet the entry criteria applied to Melbourne University students. If you are accepted, the Faculty will mail out an enrolment package. You have five working days from the mailing out of the package to complete the enrolment. Because of the tight schedules involved you must ensure that the contact information we have is current at all times by updating it with the secretary to the Head of Department whenever it changes.

International students

International applicants can discuss supervisors and projects with departmental personnel but they make an application to the International Office for a place. Any offer made will come from the International Office after consultation with the Department.

Once you are ready to apply, read the checklist and application forms included with this booklet. You may also obtain one from the Head of Department's Office, or download one from the Department of Zoology web site.

General enquiries may be directed to:

The Head of Department

• Professor David Macmillan (d.macmillan@unimelb.edu.au)

The Honours Coordinators

• Dr. Graeme Coulson (g.coulson@zoology.unimelb.edu.au)
• Dr Laura Parry (ljparry@unimelb.edu.au)
• Dr. Steve Swearer (sswearer@unimelb.edu.au )