Dear all,

Just a few reminders about the rules for Pro Gradu projects.

1) Before you start you must submit a research plan to me (in English), which must include your name, your supervisor(s) name(s), at least one of whom must be docent level or higher, proposed start date and a plan which is sufficiently detailed to be able to judge the scientific merits, the appropriateness of the timescale and evidence of forward planning. Normally 2 sides of A4 in total is sufficient. This plan should be submitted at least 1 week before the proposed start date and since so many need to be modified before acceptance, 2 weeks or more before the proposed start date is better. In parallel you need to get your credits checked by Tuula Koret to confirm you have completed enough credits to start the project.

2) Once you have started the Pro Gradu the timekeeping is strict. In the old system the time for the experimental work is 5 months, in the new system 6 months. Not that this is in months and should not be converted into weeks i.e. if you start on 3rd January for a 5 month project your end date is 2nd June. For both systems the Pro Gradu Thesis must be submitted within 1 year of your start date of the experimental work.

3) It is possible to get an extension to the Pro Gradu experimental time or write-up time if there are factors beyond your control which prevent you from working. These include:

A) If a piece of essential equipment breaks down and there is no back up
B) If you get sick
C) If your supervisor(s) get sick and/or go on holiday.
D) You get invited to give a presentation at a conference.
E) Your childcare arrangements break down and you have to stay at home with the kids for a week.

There are many other posibilities, we are flexible. Note that holidays by students are optional and do not grant extensions.

The main criteria for an extension being granted are:

i) That the period of time concerned must be 1 week or more, a delay of a few days will not be granted an extension

ii) You must be unable to do experimental work during the time for which you are being granted an extension. So for example if a piece of equipment breaks down you can only claim an extension if you are unable to do other experimental work. Or if your supervisor goes on holiday, you can only claim an extension if this stops you doing experimental work.

To claim an extension you need to write me a brief letter (a few lines is often enough) stating how long you are claiming an extension for and the reason(s). This must be signed by you and your supervisor.

Note that since 99% of supervisors (and students) take a week off over Christmas and make this week unworkable for students any project that goes over Christmas automatically get a one week extension.

I hope this clarifies things for people. Any questions please ask.

VBW,

Lloyd