La Trobe University > Research > Research Education and Development > Intellectual Climate Initiatives > Accelerated Completion Program

Accelerated Completion Program

PhD candidature is complex, we’ve designed a program that acknowledges that complexity and helps you implement realistic strategies to help you progress with your research. The ACP is an eight-week support program for final-stage PhD candidates who may be at risk of not completing in a timely manner.

What is ACP?

In the eight-week Accelerated Completion Program, participants will:

  • create an individual completion plan to identify specific academic and/or personal barriers that are affecting progress
  • develop practical skills and long-term strategies to overcome barriers
  • make contact with others experiencing similar challenges and benefit from peer learning and support
  • attend a workshop on skills needed for PhD completion, including time- and self-management, thesis writing, working effectively with supervisors, and avoiding procrastination
  • meet with an ACP coach once a week during the program for ongoing support. Coaching sessions do not replace supervision meetings and focus on skills and strategies, not the candidate’s research
  • attend a mid-point workshop to understand the process for submitting your PhD thesis, get further training and stay on track
  • attend a final session in Week 8 to celebrate successes and make the most gains from the program going forward.

The ACP provides extra support to candidates who need it. The program does not replace supervision or override the importance of the academic unit in which the candidate is enrolled.

ACP coaching focuses on accountability, time management, motivation and support, and will not include disciplinary advice pertaining to the research itself. Coaching sessions are generally conducted over Zoom.

Am I eligible for ACP?

You will have normally completed at least 2.5 years (FTE) of candidature, and the program is most effective if you are in the last 6 months before you intend to submit your thesis.

Our coaches

ACP accountability coaches will be GRS academic staff from a different discipline to yours.

ACP workshops

Check back soon for the 2027 program.

Registrations

Registrations are now closed for 2026.