The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is available in all Faculties of the University and is awarded without classification on the basis of examination of a major thesis. The requirements for the degree shall be completed by submission of a thesis which demonstrates that the candidate has made a substantial contribution to learning and appreciates and understands the relationship of the candidate’s own investigations to a wider field of knowledge.

An applicant for admission to candidature for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy must have completed one of the following:

• an appropriate undergraduate degree with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average) or equivalent; or
• a master’s degree with appropriate research training in a relevant field; or
• an equivalent qualification and/or demonstrated research experience, with evidence of capacity to undertake independent research work (eg an authored publication).

Meeting the eligibility requirements for admission is not in itself a guarantee of admission. The candidate’s potential to undertake research, the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the availability of appropriate supervision and the referee’s reports will all be taken into consideration.