The dissertation will generally be laboratory/field-based (i.e. experimental/observational) in nature although in specific cases it would be acceptable for the work to be based on literature research, provided that an original contribution is made (e.g. meta-analysis, modelling etc). The dissertation must be based on work of a sufficiently advanced nature performed by the student during the course, and should produce results that are publishable in the mainstream scientific literature. Students are also required to register for HSC5111 (Research Methods for Health Care Professionals) or for FEH5100 (Modelling Techniques in Health Sciences) and FEH5101 (Quantative Tools for Sustainable Food and Energy in the Food Chain), depending on the area of study in which their research is being carried out.

The Course shall be open to applicants in possession of one of the following qualifications: (a) the degree of Bachelor of Science (Honours) obtained with at least Second Class (Honours) from the Faculty of Health Sciences in an area of study which should be directly related to the area in which the research is to be carried out or (b) a Bachelor's degree obtained with at least a Second Class (Honours) in a discipline deemed by the Board as being closely related to the area of study in which the research is to be carried out or (c) a qualification deemed by Senate, on the recommendation of the Board, to be equivalent to the qualifications listed in (a) and (b) above.