Course coordinator
Dr Xin Guo
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 8
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Mathematics & Physics School
Research project/thesis report on topic in research field as recommended by supervisor and approved by Head of School. Students commencing in Semester 1 enrol in STAT7018 for Semester 1 and Semester 2; students commencing in Semester 2 enrol in STAT7019 for Semester 2 and the following Semester 1.
This course ﾠinvolves work and study on a topic in Statistics ﾠunder the guidance of a member of the School ofﾠ Mathematics and Physics. The most important part of the project involves reading and understanding recently developed mathematics and statistics from the research literature (i.e. reading papers in journals), and writing a report or thesis.ﾠDepending on the area of specialisation, the project could involve applying these ideas in a new area or to a new problem.ﾠIt may also involve comparing different approaches and techniques, or giving a coherent exposition of results scattered around the research literature.
Although it is particularly exciting if a student produces new publishable results; it is not required at this level.ﾠHowever a good project should be of interest to otherﾠmathematicians and statisticians for giving a good explanation and description of current research.
Over the two semesters of their enrolment students will:
- submit a progress report midway through the project,ﾠﾠ
- give aﾠ25 minute talk to students and staff of the mathematics department in the second semester of their enrolment.
- submit a final report (or thesis) at the end of their second semester.
- attend anﾠinterview (defense of the thesis) to enable two examiners to ask any questions about the project.
To find a topic, students usually ask members of the Mathematics Department working in areas of interest for suggestions.ﾠThey are then free to select the most interesting topic.ﾠMore information about research in the mathematics department can be found from the postgraduate coursework coordinator.ﾠ
MSc students enrolled in STAT7013 must complete their project in one semester. If the project is to extend over two semesters then the students must enrol in either STAT7018 or STAT7019 over two semesters. Students starting in Semester 1 enrol in STAT7018 in semester 1 and the following semester 2. Students starting in semester 2 enrol in STAT7019 in semester 2 and the following semester 1.
In the School of Mathematics and Physics we are committed to creating an inclusive and empowering learning environment for all students. We value and respect the diverse range of experiences our students bring to their education, and we believe that this diversity is crucial for fostering a rich culture of knowledge sharing and meaningful exploration. We hold both students and staff accountable for actively contributing to the establishment of a respectful and supportive learning environment.
Bullying, harassment, and discrimination in any form are strictly against our principles and againstﾠUQ Policy,ﾠand will not be tolerated. We have developed aﾠsuite of resourcesﾠto assist you in recognising, reporting, and addressing such behaviour. If you have any concerns about your experience in this course, we encourage you to tell a member of the course teaching team, or alternatively contact an SMP Classroom Inclusivity Champion (see Blackboard for contact details). Our Inclusivity Champions are here to listen, to understand your concerns, and to explore potential actions that can be taken to resolve them. Your well-being and a positive learning atmosphere are of utmost importance to us.
Course requirements
Assumed background
A background in mathematics and statistics the project advisor deems sufficient to work on the project.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
Permisson of Head of School
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Xin Guo
Timetable
Additional timetable information
Students will usually meet weekly with their advisor.
Aims and outcomes
To read and understand recently developed mathematics and statistics from the research literature and to explain this material in a seminar and a written report or thesis.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Understand and apply mathematical and statistical results and techniques from their description in the current research literature.
LO2.
Find related information and necessary background material using appropriate bibliographic resources.
LO3.
Present new mathematics and statistics research in a seminar that informs and excites a general mathematical audience.
LO4.
Write a thesis describing recent mathematical and statistical results, techniques, and applications to a readership of mathematics graduates. The exposition will show the student can (4.1) Use rigorous mathematical argument, draw conclusions from empirical evidence, and efficiently implement mathematical and statistical techniques as appropriate. (4.2) Explain ideas clearly making appropriate use of examples, counter-examples, special cases, graphs, tables, and visualisation techniques. (4.3) Place results in the context of the development of the area, and compared alternative approaches. (4.4) Use appropriate referencing to original results and a consistent bibliographic style. (4.5) Write clearly in a consistent style and with good organisation.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Project | Progress Report | 20% |
9/06/2025 4:00 pm |
| Presentation | MSc Seminar | 10% |
28/07/2025 - 31/10/2025
The precise date will be advised in the second semester of enrolment. |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | MSc Thesis | 70% |
10/11/2025 4:00 pm |
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Thesis Defense
|
Pass/Fail |
16/06/2025 - 20/06/2025
The precise date will be advised in the second semester of enrolment. |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Progress Report
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Project
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
9/06/2025 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L04
Task description
Students are required to submit a written literature review and progress report, indicating the progress they have made on their thesis, the material they have consulted, and their plans for the next semester.
There is no formal page limit. No formatting or referencing style is formally prescribed, but formatting and referencing should be clear, be used consistently, and be in accordance with the standard practices of the discipline.
Assessment items may also include one or more of the following: assignments. literature surveys, seminars, exams, etc.
DECLARATION
For students who have not signed a Confidentiality Agreement, make sure to include one of the following two declarationss on the title page of your report:
I give consent for copies of this report to be made available, as a learning resource, to students enrolled at The University of Queensland.
or
I do not give consent for copies of this report to be made available, as a learning resource, to students enrolled at The University of Queensland.
Submission guidelines
Please submit an electronic version of the file to Blackboard, preferably in PDF format.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT INFORMATION for further extension/deferral information relating to this assessment item.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item then the listed penalty will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point any submission will not receive any marks unless an extension has been approved. Each 24-hour block is recorded from the time the submission is due.
MSc Seminar
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
28/07/2025 - 31/10/2025
The precise date will be advised in the second semester of enrolment.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03
Task description
The aim of the seminar is to explain the project to a general mathematical audience that includes all your fellow graduate students and members of staff. At least the first half of the talk should be understandable by everyone. The last few minutes may be a little more technical and explain the project’s contributions to experts.
The seminar should last for about 20 minutes leaving about 5 minutes for questions. The seminar counts 10% towards the mark for the project.
The seminar should be marked by at least two markers. One marker may be the supervisor; if there are two or more supervisors, one of them may serve as a marker. The other marker must be independent, i.e., not part of the supervising team.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT INFORMATION for further extension/deferral information relating to this assessment item.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to complete the task on time. If you fail to meet the deadline for any assessment item, the listed penalty will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days. If the task is completed after 7 calendar days, you will not receive any marks unless an extension has been approved. Each 24-hour block is recorded from the time the task is due.
MSc Thesis
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 70%
- Due date
10/11/2025 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L04
Task description
There is no formal page limit. No formatting or referencing style is formally prescribed, but formatting and referencing should be clear, be used consistently, and be in accordance with the standard practices of the discipline.
Assessment items may also include one or more of the following: assignments. literature surveys, seminars, exams, etc.
DECLARATION
For students who have not signed a Confidentiality Agreement, make sure to include one of the following two declarationss on the title page of your report:
I give consent for copies of this report to be made available, as a learning resource, to students enrolled at The University of Queensland.
or
I do not give consent for copies of this report to be made available, as a learning resource, to students enrolled at The University of Queensland.
Submission guidelines
Please submit an electronic version of the file to Blackboard, preferably in PDF format.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT INFORMATION for further extension/deferral information relating to this assessment item.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item then the listed penalty will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point any submission will not receive any marks unless an extension has been approved. Each 24-hour block is recorded from the time the submission is due.
Thesis Defense
- Hurdle
- Mode
- Oral
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- Pass/Fail
- Due date
16/06/2025 - 20/06/2025
The precise date will be advised in the second semester of enrolment.
- Other conditions
- Student specific.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03
Task description
Each student will be interviewed by a committee and required to answer questions regarding their research project. The committee should include at least two markers. One marker may be the supervisor; if there are two or more supervisors, one of them may serve as a marker. The other marker must be independent, i.e., not part of the supervising team.
Hurdle requirements
If you do not pass the Thesis Defense then the highest grade you can obtain for the course is 3.Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT INFORMATION for further extension/deferral information relating to this assessment item.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to complete the task on time. If you fail to meet the deadline for any assessment item, the listed penalty will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days. If the task is completed after 7 calendar days, you will not receive any marks unless an extension has been approved. Each 24-hour block is recorded from the time the task is due.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 0%-19.99% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 20% - 44.99% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: A total mark 45% - 49.99% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 50% - 64.99% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 65% - 74.99% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 75% - 84.99% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A total mark 85% - 100% |
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
The supplementary assessment for this course may take the form of either an oral exam or a written report, as determined by the supervisor. Should a written report be specified, and if the student has previously submitted a project report, the newly required written report must demonstrate substantial improvement over the initial submission. To attain a passing grade of 3S4, a minimum mark of 50% must be achieved on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Artificial Intelligence
Assessment tasks in this course evaluate students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Extension requests are submitted online via my.UQ – applying for an extension. Extension requests received in any other way will not be approved. Additional details associated with extension requests, including acceptable and unacceptable reasons, may be found at my.UQ.
Please note:
- Requests for an extension to an assessment due date must be submitted through your my.UQ portal and you must provide documentation of your circumstances, as soon as it becomes evident that an extension is needed. Your application must be submitted on or before the assessment item's due date and time.
- Applications for extension can take time to be processed so you should continue to work on your assessment item while awaiting a decision. We recommend that you submit any completed work by the due date, and this will be marked if your application is not approved. Should your application be approved, then you will be able to resubmit by the agreed revised due date.
- If an extension is approved, you will be notified via your my.UQ portal and the new date and time for submission provided. It is important that you check the revised date as it may differ from the date that you requested.
- If the basis of the application is a medical condition, applications should be accompanied by a medical certificate dated prior to the assignment due date. If you are unable to provide documentation to support your application by the due date and time you must still submit your application on time and attach a written statement (Word document) outlining why you cannot provide the documentation. You must then upload the documentation to the portal within 24 hours.
- If an extension is being sought on the basis of exceptional circumstances, it must be accompanied by supporting documentation (eg. Statutory declaration).
- For extensions based on a SAP you may be granted a maximum of 7 days (if no earlier maximum date applies). See the Extension or Deferral availability section of each assessment for details. Your SAP is all that is required as documentation to support your application. However, additional extension requests for the assessment item will require the submission of additional supporting documentation e.g., a medical certificate. All extension requests must be received by the assessment due date and time.
- Students may be asked to submit evidence of work completed to date. Lack of adequate progress on your assessment item may result in an extension being denied.
- If you have been ill or unable to attend class for more than 14 days, you are advised to carefully consider whether you are capable of successfully completing your courses this semester. You might be eligible to withdraw without academic penalty - seek advice from the Faculty that administers your program.
- There are no provisions for exemption from an assessment item within UQ rules. If you are unable to submit an assessment piece then, under special circumstances, you may be granted an exemption, but may be required to submit alternative assessment to ensure all learning outcomes are met.
Applications to defer an exam
In certain circumstances you can apply to take a deferred examination for in-semester and end-of-semester exams. You'll need to demonstrate through supporting documentation how unavoidable circumstances prevented you from sitting your exam. If you can’t, you can apply for a one-off discretionary deferred exam.
Deferred Exam requests are submitted online via mySi-net. Requests received in any other way will not be approved. Additional details associated with deferred examinations, including acceptable and unacceptable reasons may be found at my.UQ.
Please note:
- Applications can be submitted no later than 5 calendar days after the date of the original exam.
- There are no provisions to defer a deferred exam. You need to be available to sit your deferred examination.
- Your deferred examination request(s) must have a status of "submitted" in mySI-net to be assessed.
- All applications for deferred in-semester examinations are assessed by the relevant school. Applications for deferred end-of-semester examinations are assessed by the Academic Services Division.
- You’ll receive an email to your student email account when the status of your application is updated.
- If you have a medical condition, mental health condition or disability and require alternative arrangements for your deferred exam you’ll need to complete the online alternative exam arrangements through my.UQ. This is in addition to your deferred examinations request. You need to submit this request on the same day as your request for a deferred exam or supplementary assessment. Contact Student Services if you need assistance completing your alternative exam arrangements request.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
The project advisor will give students advice about appropriate sources of information.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Not scheduled |
Not Timetabled |
Masters Thesis The student will write a thesis under the guidance of the advisor. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04 |
Not scheduled |
Not Timetabled |
Progress Report After one approximately semester of work, each student will submit a brief written progress report (usually about 20-30 pages long), including a literature review, to the coursework coordinator. The advisor and examiner will assess this report which will contribute 15% to the final mark for the project. In particular they should advise the student at this stage of any additional approaches of further literature that needs to be considered. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04 |
Not scheduled |
Seminar |
Masters Seminar In the second half of the second semester of the project, each student will give a seminar to the mathematics department. The seminar lasts 25 minutes, including 5 minutes for questions. The seminar counts 10% towards the overall mark. The aim of the seminar is to explain the project to a general mathematical audience; including all graduate students and members of staff. At least the first half of the talk should be understandable by everyone. The last few minutes may be a little more technical and explain the project content to experts. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.