The Doctor of Medical Science (DMedSc) is a graduate research doctorate offered by the Melbourne Medical School only open to senior medical graduates of the University of Melbourne and other recognised universities. The DMedSc is designed for medical graduates to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research at the doctoral research level. Under the supervision of academic staff and an Advisory Panel appointed by the enrolling department, DMedSc students complete a thesis of approximately 50,000 - 80,000 words over a maximum period of up to four years full-time. The degree may be completed in less time if the student's academic progress as judged by the advisory panel, supports earlier submission. Undertaking the DMedSc can broaden the medical graduate's career pathway, developing you as a researcher and enhancing leadership opportunities in your specialty practice area. Research projects are available in the areas of: Adolescents Cancer Cardio metabolic disease Cardiovascular disease Child health Chronic disease Diabetes General practice Gynaecology Imaging Integrated clinical medicine Medical education Mental health Musculoskeletal Neuroscience Obstetrics Ophthalmology Otolaryngology Paediatrics Primary care Psychiatry Radiology Rural health Stroke Surgery Women's health The DMedSc is classified as a research doctorate with thesis requirements and examination comparable to the Doctor of Philosophy. You will be enrolled into a thesis subject for the duration of the degree. The normal period of candidature is 3 years for full-time candidates (part-time equivalent) with the possibility of up to 12 months extension. All candidates will be required to complete a minimum of 12 months full-time research at the University to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up of their research within a University community and environment. Normally the entire degree is undertaken at the University. You will have appropriately experienced academics available to arrange a course of supervised research designed to suit your individual requirements and interests. You may be required to supplement your research program by attendance at, or enrolment in, additional subjects if considered necessary by the supervisor(s). You will be expected to attend departmental seminars over the period of your candidature. Academic progress will be reviewed regularly throughout the degree. Your thesis will be examined externally. The thesis should normally be between 50,000 and 80,000 words (and may not exceed 100,000 words) in length excluding tables, illustrations and bibliography. You should refer to the University policy library and the Graduate Research Hub for further information regarding candidature, academic progress, ethics, thesis preparation and examination. To be eligible to submit a thesis for examination, you must be enrolled in your course for the minimum period of 6 months full-time equivalent. The DMedSc may normally be undertaken in any department of the Melbourne Medical School and in some Faculty-based academic units such as the Centre for Youth, Mental Health or Department of Medical Biology (WEHI). Please note that entry is subject to the availability of a suitable supervisor and research project and the approval of the Head of Department.