Candidates enrolled in the PhD with Coursework program are required to complete six semester-length coursework subjects and a thesis workshop subject in the first year of study.

Normally confirmation will be considered at the end of the first year of study. Confirmation will require:

• passing subjects with average results of 75% or greater
• presentation at the Thesis Workshop at an acceptable standard
• To have begun thesis, including:
  
  
  • literature review, demonstration of where the thesis fits in and proposals to extend knowledge
  • key hypotheses, questions and issues to be answered by the thesis
  • availability of, and access to, required data, computer programs and other research support
  
  Note: Ideally the Thesis Workshop presentation could serve this purpose.

Confirmation will be assessed by a sub-committee consisting of:

• PhD Co-ordinator
• Convenor of Thesis Workshop subject
• Students PhD Supervisor
• other members as appointed by Head of Department