During your study

See timelines for full-time and part-time study and learn how to submit mandatory progress reports.

As a Master’s-by-research student you will submit a research proposal and complete progress reports. Your thesis or research portfolio is due at the end of your registration period.

Lifecycle of a full-time Master’s-by-research degree

Time from start date

Due

One month

Research proposal

Three months

First (interim) progress report

Eight months

Second (final) progress report

Nine months

Earliest possible time to submit thesis

Twelve months

Latest possible time to submit thesis

Lifecycle of a part-time Master’s-by-research degree

Time from start date

Due

Two months

Research proposal

Six months

First (interim) progress report

Twelve months

Second (interim) progress report

Eighteen months

Third (final) progress report

Earliest possible time to submit thesis

Twenty-four months

Latest possible time to submit thesis

If you switch between full-time and part-time study during your degree this will affect when your progress reports and thesis are due. It can also impact your Studylink eligibility. Contact fgr-postgrads@vuw.ac.nz to find out more.

Progress reporting timeframes for Master of Architecture students completing a research portfolio also differ.

Submitting your research proposal

Requirements for research proposals differ by school and faculty. Your school will inform you what should be included in your research proposal and how to submit it. All Master’s-by-research students must complete the following form and submit it along with their research proposal.

Contact your school’s Postgraduate Coordinator or Postgraduate Administrator if you have any questions about submitting your research proposal.

Submitting progress reports

Progress reports help ensure that you will receive quality supervision, make suitable progress with your research, and have access to the resources you need. If you see any problems emerging, it is best to be open about them in your report. Progress reporting allows for steps to be taken to resolve these problems as soon as possible.

Use these forms to submit progress reports: