Course structure and requirements

At the beginning of your course you are required to nominate one of the following methods of candidature:

1. a thesis comprising a substantial body of creative work plus a written text examining the histories and theoretical underpinnings of the creative work, both of which demonstrate an original contribution to knowledge; or
2. a substantial written thesis that, through a sustained investigation, demonstrates an original contribution to knowledge in the field of the history and theory of contemporary art.

In Option (1), the creative work must represent a significant and coherent solo exhibition. You must obtain a pass for both the written text and creative work for the degree to be awarded.

The length of the written thesis is agreed through consultation between you, your supervisor and the Graduate School Director. Any changes would have to be approved by the supervisor and the Graduate School Director. The expectations for Option (1) are in the vicinity of 40,000-50,000 words, and in the vicinity of 60,000-80,000 words for Option (2).

Probationary period

The first year of the PhD program at SCA is a probationary year for all candidates.

You are required to make a presentation on your work to date (both creative and written work) at your first annual progress review. This 15-minute presentation will be followed by a 15-minute discussion/interview in which your progress is discussed. The review panel is authorised to recommend a change of probationary enrolment to normal candidature. You will sign the progress report to confirm any agreed outcomes at the end of the review period. Unsatisfactory progress or other problems could result in a recommendation that your probationary period be extended, or that you transfer to a Masters by research (if you have not already completed a Masters by research).

At the end of your first year of candidature, we expect you to have achieved the following milestones:

• you have a clearly articulated research question,
• you have completed a literature review or introduction of 7000 – 10,000 words,
• you have a complete outline of the written component of your thesis, with draft chapter headings, sub-headings and a brief abstract of each chapter,
• you have commenced a small body of studio work within the time you have been enrolled in the degree,
• you have attended at least 2 of the 3 first-year PhD seminar programs.

PhD Seminar Program

The first-year Seminar Program is compulsory for all first year PhD candidates. The seminars are designed to introduce you to:

• the principles of practice-led research and scholarly definitions of knowledge and research,
• structuring and writing a literature review in the field of contemporary art,
• the characteristics of successful academic writing and the sections of a thesis.

Graduate School Forum

You are required to attend the Graduate School Forum once you have completed the first semester of your candidature. You must present a paper each year on the current state of your research. Each presentation session is chaired by a fellow candidate.

If you are unable to attend a presentation, you must have your supervisor's support and request approval in writing from the Graduate School Director.