A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a thesis-based research degree and has been individually designed and built around the research methodology required, the nature of your thesis topic and the background of the candidate. If necessary, you may also be required to undertake research training or further coursework as part of your PhD program. Candidates will benefit from on-going support, mentoring or involvement in our research culture.

A PhD may be completed as a traditional thesis or a thesis by publication or as a non-traditional thesis (exegesis) and creative artefact. Your PhD should be based on an advanced investigation into a significant question which is related to your current field. The thesis should make an original and substantial contribution to the humanities, social sciences, applied sciences or Aboriginal studies.

Just remember that you must discuss your application with a suitably qualified member of the academic staff, preferably one you wish to be your principal research supervisor, before submitting an application to enrol in a Doctor of Philosophy. Financial support for domestic candidates is available under the Commonwealth Government’s Research Training Scheme (RTS). International students, meanwhile, are required to pay full fees but may apply for a wide range of scholarships which are made available to candidates of exceptional potential.

Applicants can choose one of the following areas:

• Arts and Sciences
• Business
• Education
• Health Science
• Law
• Medicine
• Nursing
• Philosophy and Theology
• Physiotherapy

Applicants must fulfil the following requirements:

• Completion of a research Master's degree, appropriate to the professional field of the applicant (or equivalent) at a high level of achievement; or
• A Bachelor’s degree with Honours (Class 1 or Class 2A Honours level or equivalent); or
• In exceptional circumstances, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the Dean of the School and the PVC-R to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research at a doctoral level.

An applicant may be required to demonstrate an ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study or as deemed appropriate by the Dean of the School.