Chapter 7: Thesis and examination matters

7.10 Examiner's recommendations for the thesis

There are five possible recommendations an examiner can make on a doctoral or MPhil thesis:

1. The candidate be awarded the degree without further examination
2. The candidate be awarded the degree without further examination subject to insertion in the thesis of amendments noted in the enclosed list
   - to my satisfaction (I wish to review the amendments made), or
   - to that of the head of the academic unit
3. The candidate be awarded the degree subject to satisfying me regarding the attached questions (I wish to review the candidate’s response)
4. The candidate not yet be awarded the degree but be permitted to resubmit the thesis in a revised form.
5. The candidate not be awarded the degree.

Whether the examiner’s recommendation is favourable or unfavourable, the examiner is expected to provide detailed comments on the strengths and/or weaknesses of the thesis

7.10.1 Merit indicators for doctoral theses

In the addition to the examiner’s recommendation and report, examiners of doctoral theses are invited to provide an indication of the merit of particular elements of the doctoral work on a separate form. These merit indicators are supplementary to the examiners’ formal assessment of the work for the award of degree and do not in any way contribute to the examination outcome.

Candidates will be provided with a copy of the merit indicators, where provided by the examiner, and can use these at their discretion. The Code of practice for the use of merit indicators arising from doctoral examinations outlines the purpose for collection of this information determines its appropriate within and by Monash University.

7.10.2 Grades for MPhil theses

Examiners of MPhil theses are also asked to provide a numerical mark as part of the assessment.

The following grading system is used:

H1 : 80+%

H2A : 70-79%

H2B : 60-69%

Where a mark in the range above is recommended, the examiner must also recommend that the thesis be passed or that it be passed subject to the completion of amendments.

Fail : less than 60%

No mark is to be given where the thesis is recommended for revision and resubmission, or for outright fail with no option for revision and resubmission.