Candidate Academic Support Panel (CASP) for HDR Students

Have you been asked to attend a CASP meeting? We're here to help.

Deakin University will monitor your progress throughout your candidature, assess Progress Review Milestones, and offer feedback and support to help you finish candidature successfully.

Candidate Academic Support Panels (CASP) are part of Deakin University’s process for supporting you if your progress is deemed ‘not yet satisfactory’ as a result of not meeting Progress Review Milestones at Confirmation of Candidature, Mid-Candidature Review or Pre-Submission Review.

Further details about CASP and academic progress can be found in the Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) Academic Progress procedure.

What will happen at the initial CASP meeting? 

• The panel will review your work and the Progress Review Panel report and/or any relevant details regarding failure to satisfactorily complete mandatory training or coursework units (where applicable).
• The panel will also identify suitable academic and support services for you, and consider the current supervision arrangements and whether changes to the supervision team are needed.
• Tasks will be set and timeframes established, in order for you to demonstrate satisfactory progress for your next attempt of the Progress Review Milestone.
• The panel may also determine whether further CASP meetings are required.

Who will be at the CASP meeting?

The panel will be chaired by the Graduate Research Coordinator or senior academic nominee and will include your supervisory team and at least one other panel member with appropriate expertise in your discipline.

You are welcome to bring a DUSA advocate or other support person of your choice (who is not a practicing lawyer).

What happens after the initial CASP meeting?

• A written record outlining all requirements, timeframes, support arrangements and meeting frequency must be provided to you and your supervisors within five working days of each CASP meeting.
• The panel will monitor and continue to support you according to the agreed timetable and may meet with you where appropriate.
• The CASP will be concluded with your next progress review attempt and written records from the CASP will be provided to the Progress Review Panel ahead of your next progress review attempt.

How can a DUSA advocate help me?

DUSA Advocates are professional, experienced staff who provide free, independent and confidential support regarding academic and personal matters to all Deakin students. 

A DUSA Advocate can:

• Assist you to understand the CASP process, assess your situation, and provide you with support throughout the process.
• Assist you in face-to-face appointments, by phone, zoom and via email.
• Accompany you to your CASP meetings as your support person.
• Provide you with referrals to support services both within Deakin University and externally.
• Contact us today to arrange a free appointment.