how to study phd in australia

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Doctor of Philosophy

As a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate, you’ll complete a substantial program of independent and original research in your chosen field of study. A PhD prepares you for a range of careers - from academic to industry and is the highest degree qualification available. 

• 3–4 years (full time) minimum commitment of 35 – 40 hours per week or
• 6–8 years (part time) minimum commitment of 15 hours per week.
• Offered in all Faculties
• A thesis of no more than 100,000 words.

Entry requirements

Future careers.

• Fees & costs

UNSW undertakes world-class research that tackles some of the greatest challenges facing society today. When you join the UNSW research community, you join a passionate collective of people who are using research to transform minds, transform lives, and transform the world.

UNSW will support you to develop the skills and expertise you need to make a difference in your field. We are committed to providing you with an unmatched PhD experience that includes outstanding research training and mentorship, world-class supervision, and access to research environments defined by excellence and collaboration.

You will receive advanced specialist research training and produce a thesis that provides evidence for independent thought, critical analysis, and expert knowledge of the discipline in an international context. In some disciplines, creative work may form part of the thesis.

Find information about individual PhD programs and codes on the UNSW Handbook .

Learn about the graduate attributes and learning outcomes for UNSW higher degree research programs here . 

The minimum requirement for admission to a PhD is:

• A UNSW Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours from UNSW; or
• a completed Master by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high quality research thesis; or
• an equivalent qualification from a tertiary institution as determined by the Faculty Higher Degree Committee (HDC)

The minimum requirement for UNSW Scholarship with admission to a PhD is:

• a four year Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification as above.

You may think of yourself as a student, but we think of you as a professional researcher in the early stages of a long and vibrant career.

UNSW will provide you with the skills and expertise to pursue a range of career pathways after you graduate, from academia to industry.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll have access to a wealth of opportunities to work with and alongside industry through industry PhD programs to internships and mentorships .

You’ll also have access to the most comprehensive student entrepreneurship program in Australia, that can help you develop your ideas, raise capital and launch a startup.

Fees and costs

The costs associated with enrolment in a research higher degree program vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international candidate. Learn more about the fees and costs here .

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• Doctor of Philosophy

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Springfield
• 3 year(s) (or part-time equivalent)
• Jan, Feb, Apr, May, Jul, Aug, Sep, Nov

Career outcomes

Entry requirements, degree structure, fees and scholarships.

• Do you have a passion for research? The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research degree available in all study areas and provides you with the skills to become an effective researcher in your previously studied discipline.
• By undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy you will have expansive intellectual freedom to be able to make an original and substantial contribution to your area of study.
• UniSQ academics are recognised throughout the world for their excellence in research. Some of the projects you can tap into are at the forefront of cutting edge research.
• As a research student you will have the commitment and support to make a difference to society in a meaningful way. UniSQ is committed to excellence in research training and provide a quality research training experience for our students. We maintain our relevance in research by linking with industry and business through local and international research networks.
• Our research extends across all of the Schools and Centres in the university. Within the Division of Research and Innovation it is focused across three research institutes and nine research centres , reflecting a wide array of research excellence.
• To start your PhD you need to clarify your research topic and seek an academic staff member to be your supervisor. This can sometimes take time so it is wise to allow several months for discussion with potential supervisors and for consideration of your application.
• Graduating with a Doctor of Philosophy is ideal if you wish to pursue a career in industry, academia or government with specialisation in your chosen field.

Applicants must have one of the following:

• an Australian-university Bachelor honours degree with First Class Honours or Second Class Honours (Division A) or equivalent (with a thesis comprising at least two units), or
• an Australian-university Masters degree (with a thesis comprising at least two units) or equivalent, or
• other qualifications and/or experiences equivalent to First Class or Second Class Honours (Division A).

English language requirements

You are required to satisfy the applicable English language requirements  and this degree requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent . If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program .

UniSQ offers a number of masters degrees  for you to study to help you meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree.

The Doctor of Philosophy comprises a minimum of 16 independent research units, although students would normally complete 24 independent research units, with the option to extend to 32 independent research units if needed.

Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.

Your actual fees may vary depending on the courses you select. We review our fees annually so these may be subject to change.

1 These are indicative annual fees for 2024. 

Grant to help you pay your fees

All Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens commencing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) degree will have their tuition fees paid by the Australian Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset scheme. The RTP Fees Offset scheme covers program fees for an HDR student up to a maximum period of four years for full-time study or up to eight years part-time study for a Doctoral degree, and up to a maximum period of two years for full-time or four years part-time for a Masters by Research degree.

As part of the enrolment process, students are required to submit proof of citizenship or permanent residency status and transcripts of all previous academic study. This documentation enables the University of Southern Queensland to determine eligibility for an RTP Fees Offset place.

• have not used RTP Fees Offset funding in the previous three years; or
• have already used RTP Fees Offset funding and have successfully completed an HDR degree. Once a student completes an HDR degree, full entitlements of RTP Fees Offset are restored.

If a student's RTP Fees Offset entitlement expires before completion of the degree, the student will be required to pay full tuition fees, or if meeting the eligibility criteria be able to apply for a FEE-Help loan . 

Scholarships

At UniSQ, we offer a range of scholarships to support your success at university. Find a scholarship  that works for you.

How to apply

Complete your online application directly to UniSQ.

Applications may be submitted at any time, but it is ideal to allow a minimum of 25 working days between when you submit your application and the start of your requested study period.

Select to start in one of the following intakes:

Further information

To learn more about the application process and how to find and connect with a research supervisor please visit the Graduate Research School  website.

Got questions?

Begin your study journey today with the university rated 5/5 stars for graduates starting salaries* and start the degree that’s right for you.

*Good Universities Guide 2024

PhD is short for Doctor of Philosophy – a globally recognised research qualification. Traditionally, PhD students completed a substantial piece of original research which is presented as a thesis or dissertation. This research is conducted under the guidance of at least one expert supervisor.

Discover more about higher degrees by research  at UniSQ.

If you have a passion for research and want to expand your knowledge in your choose field beyond a masters degree, a PhD might be for you. Other reasons to study a doctorate degree include:

• Expanding your career prospects with the highest achievable postgraduate qualification.
• Become an expert – after your PhD you will be considered an expert in your choose area of research.
• Showcasing your transferrable skills. Achieving a PhD degree involves more than research – your qualification demonstrates your work ethic, problem solving skills, commitment, communication skills and much more depending on your choose research topic.

A PhD qualification can open up many exciting career paths in a variety of roles and settings including:

• Academica or government
• Postdoctoral positions at a university or research institute
• Graduate lecturer
• Researcher/consultant
• Non-government or private organisations
• Scientific research
• Researcher/consultant in industry or non-for-profit.
• Entrepreneur.

A PhD degree will take you approximately three years to complete. Some students choose to study part-time which increases the time it takes to complete the doctorate.

To start a PhD you need to clarify your research topic and seek an academic staff member to be your supervisor, therefore we recommend allowing several months to consider your application.

Graduating with a PhD is a noteworthy achievement as it is considered the highest postgraduate achievement you can earn. After completing your Doctor of Philosophy you will likely be considered an expert in your field, opening up a variety of new career paths. After completing your PhD, take this unique opportunity to:

• Tailor your resume – showcase the skills and knowledge you learnt during your studies, including transferrable skills. Don’t be modest about your achievement as it is significant and your potential employer may not understand what it took to achieve a PhD.
• Networking – put your newly found expertise to good use by attending industry events and meeting other experts or notable professionals in your field. This will not only expand your horizons but may lead to potential job opportunities.

The cost of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will vary depending on the education provider you choose.

When you study with us, your degree will cost approximately AUD 31000 (Domestic full fee paying).

All Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens commencing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) degree will have their tuition fees paid by the Australian Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset scheme.

For further information on Fees, including RTP and scholarships, please view the Fees and scholarships section of this webpage.

The entry requirements for studying a PhD degree can vary depending on your chosen education provider. At UniSQ applicants must hold either a relevant bachelor honours degree, masters degree or other qualifications and satisfy applicable English Language requirements.

For further details please view the entry requirements section of this page.

Get a strong start to your research career:

• Learn from world class researchers – according to the latest ERA  results, UniSQ is rated at world standard or better in 30 areas of research.
• Study for your PhD while balancing your life work and family commitments with flexible online or on-campus study.
• Benefit from our leading research expertise, extending across three research institutes and nine research centres.
• We are proud to partner with industry leaders to drive impactful change, giving our students opportunities to experience research in real-world environments.

Degree Finder

Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy is the University’s flagship research award and is the standard pre-requisite for a career in research or academia. The PhD involves three – four years of research for a full-time candidate or the equivalent in half-time candidature.

As one of the most highly research-intensive and respected universities in Australia and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight , The University of Adelaide is the smart choice for your research program. The University is committed to providing unique opportunities for graduates and researchers who are recognised as worldwide leaders for their vision and capacity to address global research challenges.

All PhD students at the University have the opportunity to broaden their research experience through the Career and Research Skills Training (CaRST) program.

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Career Readiness

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Research Manager;  Research Scientist;  Research and Education

Degree Structure

A PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by the student, their supervisors and Head of School. The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as a result of a new theory. In addition, PhD students complete a minimum of 120 hours of relevant professional development activities through the University's Career and Research Skills Training (CaRST) program. Progress through the degree is tracked through the completion of a number of key milestones . These milestones provide an opportunity for the University to review progress and ensure that candidates are well supported to complete their degree in a timely manner. The award of the degree is based on the examination of a thesis by no fewer than two external expert examiners of international standing. Acceptable thesis formats include a conventional written narrative, publication, combination and a major creative work plus exegesis. In all cases, examiners assess the thesis on a number of key criteria including its capacity to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge in the chosen field of research. The final outcome is determined by the University following review of all the examiners' reports.

Admission Requirements

A successful application to a PhD program involves a number of considerations: Academic background and Experience An applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient background and experience in independent supervised research to successfully complete a PhD as detailed in the academic program rules . English Language Proficiency Requirement As English is the language of instruction at the University of Adelaide, all applicants must provide evidence of their proficiency before an offer of a place is made. Availability of supervision and resourcing In addition to the academic requirements, the Head of School must certify that your proposed research project is acceptable to the School and that there are sufficient supervisory and other resources and facilities available to enable your candidature to be completed successfully. Accordingly, discussing your research interests with your prospective supervisors/School is essential prior to submitting your PhD application.  Visit our Research Degrees Projects page for details of some of the available projects on offer.  If you don’t find a project of interest here, you can apply with your own project idea after reaching out to potential supervisor(s) in your area of interest.  Fees for Domestic Students Eligible domestic students (including Australian citizens or permanent residents and New Zealand citizens) are covered by the Research Training Program (RTP) and are exempt from the payment of tuition fees. An RTP place is available for a maximum of 4 years of full time equivalent study for an eligible Doctorate student. Fees for International Students The tuition fees for international research students are available on the web at:  https://www.adelaide.edu.au/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/international-student-fees/ In addition to tuition costs, it is a condition of a student visa that you hold and maintain health insurance for the entire length of your stay in Australia. This insurance is called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) . Tuition fees for international students who have been awarded a Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship are covered by an RTP Fee-Offset for a maximum of 4 years of full-time equivalent study for an eligible Doctorate student. Scholarships The University of Adelaide offers a wide range of scholarships to assist both domestic and international students with the cost of their studies. For information on the opportunities available, closing dates and how to apply go to: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/graduate-research/scholarships/

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Areas of Specialisation

Testimonial.

The University of Adelaide provides a resourceful and supportive environment for conducting rigorous and high quality doctoral research, while broadening my global network.

Michael Ling

PhD in Developmental Neurogenetics

Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer .

Last updated: Wednesday, 20 Mar 2024

Study at Adelaide

Further enquiries

• Contact QUT Contact QUT

Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) lets you explore real world issues and develop new theories, methodologies and models that could lead to shaping the future of your profession or discipline.

Study your PhD with us

Study your PhD full time as either an internal student on-campus or an external student in a workplace away from QUT, either domestically or overseas.

Part time study is subject to QUT approval and not available to international students.

How to apply

Build your high level research and analytical skills and make a significant and original contribution to new knowledge in your chosen field, or make a significant and original adaptation, application, and interpretation of existing knowledge.

Apply yourself in a supervised program of research and investigation with access to high-calibre facilities and resources and present your research findings after completion of your thesis.

Participate

As part of the research community, participate in university scholarly activities such as seminars, workshops, and teaching, and be encouraged to publish as part of a strong and flourishing research culture.

Recognition

Opportunity to graduate with an internationally recognised degree and follow an academic career in both teaching and research or advance your professional career prospects outside academia.

Our strengths, study areas and projects

We prioritise areas of research identified as significant for the world, the nation, and the state.

Our research seeks to address national and global cultural, environmental, economic and social challenges. In each of these areas we're continuing to build on the strength and experience of our experts.

Architecture and built environment

Business and law

Creative industries, education and social justice

Engineering

Funding your research degree

If you're an outstanding graduate and aspiring researcher, you may be eligible to apply for a scholarship in our annual scholarship round.

You can also apply for other research scholarships to help you with study and living costs.

You may also be eligible for the Equity Scholarships Scheme if you are struggling financially.

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent visa holder, or a New Zealand citizen, you may also be eligible for Centrelink payments.

Applying for a research scholarship

Browse our research scholarships

Discover our Equity Scholarships Scheme

Learn more about Centrelink payments

What to expect

Our PhD program offers the opportunity to work with an experienced supervisory research team to make a significant and original contribution to new knowledge, or to make a significant and original adaptation, application, and interpretation of existing knowledge, in your chosen field.

The program challenges students to become independent researchers who develop new ideas, new theories, methodologies and models or new ways of approaching existing problems. Therefore, the research must reveal high critical ability and powers of imagination and synthesis and as such may shape the future of the profession or discipline.

Collaboration

We adopt a project management approach in our PhD program where students work closely with their supervisory team to meet collegially reviewed milestones leading to timely submission of a thesis for examination. This approach contributes to QUT’s timely completions and low attrition rates. The length of the thesis varies according to the topic, but should normally be no longer than 100,000 words, excluding bibliography.

During candidature the supervisory team and other key stakeholders also provide advice and direction to encourage participation in university scholarly activities such as research seminars, teaching, and publication. These activities enable students to develop wider knowledge and high level generic skills including transferable skills for careers outside academia.

Careers and outcomes

PhD graduates are considered to be highly employable in a wide range of occupations within academia, including academic and research roles.

Employers outside academia recognise the wider knowledge and skills HDR graduates possess, in particular transferable skills – including research, analytical, and quantitative skills, outstanding verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to solve intricate business problems.

Career development

Our Graduate Research Education and Development team offer a wide range of career development workshops to help you obtain your dream job including workshops to help you:

• identify professional, transferable, and personal skills
• understand the complex job market
• utilise your networks to leverage opportunities in and outside academia.

Find your career

Business and law careers.

• Banking and finance professional
• Business analyst
• Crown law officer
• Digital  economy lawyer
• Financial analyst
• Financial project manager
• Funds manager
• Government officer
• Higher education worker
• Human resource manager
• In-house counsel
• Information officer
• International business specialist
• Investment manager
• Legal technology specialist
• Marketing officer/manager
• Organisational communication specialist
• Policy officer
• Risk manager

Creative industries, education and social justice careers

• University teacher and/or researcher
• Criminologist
• Media advisor
• Design researcher
• Creative practitioner
• Entrepreneur
• private enterprise
• child development
• entertainment
• criminal justice
• social justice
• communication.

Engineering careers

A Doctor of Philosophy with the Faculty of Engineering can provide you with the skills and expertise to work in the public or private sectors, or in academia, in areas including:

• Aerospace engineering
• Architecture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Building science
• Built environment
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Computer and software systems
• Construction management
• Electrical engineering
• Environmental engineering
• Interior architecture
• Landscape architecture
• Mechanical engineering
• Mechatronics
• Medical engineering
• Process engineering
• Project management
• Quantity surveying
• Renewable power
• Transport engineering
• Urban design
• Urban and regional planning

Health careers

• Discipline specific researcher
• Policy development and regulatory functions with government and regulators
• Research and development, and advocacy, in the charitable/not-for-profit sector
• Applied research and consulting in industry
• Data analyst for government and industry
• Research-scientist practitioner (clinical pathway)
• Health economist
• Implementation scientist
• Optometry practice
• Contact lens or spectacle lens industry
• Ophthalmic instrument manufacturing
• Clinical work - private and hospital-based
• Radiation therapy clinician
• Clinical dietician
• Clinical lab coordinator/manager
• Sports scientist
• Head strength and conditioning coach
• Hospital/medical consultant
• Entrepreneur (biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, health technologies)

Science careers

• University teacher and /or researcher
• Science communicator
• Policy scientist
• Software engineer
• Systems analyst
• Web developer
• Developer programmer
• Cybersecurity analyst / engineer
• Database administrator
• ICT analyst / support engineer / technician
• Mathematician
• Statistician
• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Computational scientist
• Forensic scientist
• Atmospheric scientist

Details and units

You'll need to:

• complete a time-based thesis
• complete IFN006 AIRS: Advanced Information Research Skills
• complete other units as agreed by the student in negotiation with their supervisor and faculty
• agree on a start date with your supervisor (except creative industries and education disciplines which have specific start dates. The how to apply guide has further details).

Download the Higher Degree by Research course regulations (PDF file, 335.3 KB)

Requirements

Academic entry requirements.

You must have either:

• a completed recognised relevant honours degree (first class or second class Division A) or equivalent
• a completed recognised masters degree or professional doctorate (by research or coursework).

Masters and professional doctorate degrees by coursework must have a significant research component, normally not less than 25%. Holders of masters and professional doctorate by coursework must:

• have a minimum grade point average (GPA) score of 5.0 on QUT's 7 point scale
• and present evidence of research experience and potential for approval.

Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy depends on an applicant’s demonstrated research aptitude and the availability of supervision, infrastructure and resources needed for the proposed research project.

PhD students need to complete the Stage 2 milestone (usually completed within the first three months of full time study) to be fully admitted to their course.

Download the admission criteria for the Doctor of Philosophy (PDF file, 280.6 KB)

Minimum English language requirements

For information about minimum English language requirements, refer to the requirements on the  Doctor of Philosophy course page.

Check English language requirements

Australian citizen or permanent visa holder, or a New Zealand citizen

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent visa holder, or a New Zealand citizen, your tuition fees are normally covered by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset (Domestic), as long as you complete your degree within the program's set timeframes. You may have to pay tuition fees if you exceed the time limits under the RTP. 2024 fees  $31,000 - $39,000 per year full time

Learn more about RTP and financial support

International fees

International students who enrol in a QUT research degree will receive a tuition fee sponsorship if they are in receipt of:

• a stipend scholarship awarded by QUT
• a stipend scholarship funded by an organisation with which QUT has an external agreement to sponsor fees for this student or relevant cohort of students.

Candidates will not be eligible if they receive another tuition fees offset or sponsorship from any source, including QUT.

You cannot apply for a tuition fee sponsorship; your eligibility is reviewed via your application for admission. 2024 fees $33,000 - $40,000 per year full time

If you have to pay fees, the amount may vary depending on which units you choose. We review fees annually, and they may be subject to increases.

Find a supervisor and research topic

We recommend you discuss your research interests with your proposed supervisor early in the application process. You can search for a supervisor using our experts database.

As part of your application, you must propose a research topic and develop a research proposal. You can search our student topics database for available research projects or propose your own research topic. You may ask a supervisor to help you identify or refine a research topic.

Find a supervisor

Find a research topic

Is a PhD right for me?

We understand that doing a PhD may be a sizeable commitment and circumstances change, that's why we offer the flexibility to transition from your PhD into a Master of Philosophy. You can decide at any time in candidature, in consultation with your supervisory team.

Our Master of Philosophy

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A Guide to Doing Your PhD in Australia

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If you’re an international student who has completed higher education studies, you might now be considering studying a doctorate degree, also known as a PhD. In Australia, this is the highest level of study and, once completed, can unlock doors to better employment, higher wages, and industry recognition.

Here’s a handy guide on how to apply, what to expect, and where to find further information for your exciting next step.

What is the difference between honours, a master ’s and a PhD?

An honours  is an extra year of study in Australia. To qualify you need to have completed your undergraduate degree, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree, to a high standard. This is often considered a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree might consider a graduate certificate, which usually takes one semester of full-time study and can help you specialise in your chosen career path. One step up from a certificate is a graduate diploma. This type of study takes one year of full-time study and can often be continued on from the graduate certificate.

A master’s by coursework is similar to a graduate diploma but takes a little longer and is regarded as a higher qualification. In most cases, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree; however, in certain circumstances, extensive relevant work experience might be accepted instead. This type of course typically takes 18 months to complete. A master’s by research takes two years of full-time study and is based on a research project supervised by a university academic.

A doctorate by research or a PhD is the highest level of study offered in Australia. A PhD requires submission of a thesis that is assessed by examiners who determine whether the research is worthy of the qualification. A PhD student must show through their thesis that they have made a significant contribution to their field. Once graduated, the candidate may use the title of Doctor.

How does a PhD work in Australia?

A PhD in Australia is usually studied over the course of three years. While some students take a little longer, extensions are subject to funding, as well as other important factors. Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa .

According to the Australian Government , fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the full amount if there is funding available, which is common in Australia. Most universities have funding for promising PhD students set aside. Get in touch with your chosen university directly to find out what scholarships are available to international students. The Australian Government also runs Destination Australia , which funds eligible education providers in regional areas to offer scholarships to both domestic and international students. The government also offers the Research Training Program for participating universities.

International students also need to consider the cost of living while abroad to qualify for their visa. You’ll need at least roughly A$21,041 for each year of your study in your bank account in order to be granted a visa.

Do I need honours to apply for a PhD?

In most cases you will need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Division A) – also known as ‘upper second-class’ honours – to apply for your PhD to demonstrate you have significant research experience. However, many education providers offer research-based qualifications to give you this experience if you didn’t complete an honours degree originally.

What is the basic structure of a PhD?

PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of your studies will be on working towards your doctoral thesis.

In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing and analysing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis.

In Australia, you are not required to undergo a viva voca , which is an assessed oral exam in defence of your research topic, method and predicted results. Instead, you are assessed solely on your thesis.

How do I apply for a PhD?

To apply for an Australian PhD, the first step is to contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose. The person you choose should be the lead researcher for the institution you wish to apply to, in the relevant field you wish to study.

Once you have what is known as an ‘expression of interest’ from a provisional supervisor, you can begin your formal application to the university. Most universities won’t consider an application without an expression of interest from a supervisor, so make sure you have this first.

What else do I need to know?

To study as an international student in Australia, you must have a student visa (subclass 500) from the Australian government. Unless you are exempt, the application fee for this visa is AUD$710. You can read more about student visas and their requirements here .

Australian PhDs are delivered in English and have language skill requirements. There are various tests you can take to verify your English language skills including the IELTS, CAE and PTE. The score you need is usually specified on the universities website and will depend on the test you take.

International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in order to be granted their student visa. There are a variety of providers to choose from, including many universities, but the policy you choose must adhere to the Overseas Student Health Cover guides. Explore your options in greater detail here .

The new international student working limit of 48 hours every fortnight does not apply to international students who are pursuing a doctorate or a master’s degree through research. These students are not restricted in terms of the number of hours they can work. However, your actual work hours should align with your study requirements and also require approval from your academic supervisor. This is to ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary objective of completing your academic research.

PhD study is an excellent way to enter the Australian workforce and graduate visas are available that can entitle you to stay in Australia for up to four years after you have finished your PhD. In other words, if you have dreams of both furthering your education and settling long-term in Australia, a PhD could be the perfect way to make those dreams a reality.

Sarah Price

Originally from the UK, Sarah has worked as a freelance writer for nearly 10 years, both at home and now in Perth where she lives. Once an international student in South West WA herself, she loves to help new students feel welcome, confident, and ready to make the most of their study abroad. Having lived in Perth and explored a lot of WA, Sarah knows just how wonderful it is to discover this beautiful state.

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PhD Degrees in Australia

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. PhD study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Australia are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Australian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment of the remaining study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Australia?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. In Australia, candidates can expect to pay 40,000 AUD- 60,000 AUD. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

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If you are interested in studying for a research degree in Australia, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.

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PhD by Distance

Become world-ready, from wherever you are in the world, with a UTS PhD by distance mode.

If your research is based internationally but you want access to UTS's world-leading researchers and reputation, you've been required to complete a PhD for your career but you don't want to relocate, or you want to expand your global networks to create real-world research impact, the PhD by distance mode might be right for you. 

A UTS PhD by distance mode empowers you to develop your future as a researcher in a global context —all without applying for a visa or subletting your apartment.

What you can expect

• full enrolment as a PhD student at UTS
• supervision and mentorship from a panel of experts
• administrative support and guidance from your faculty
• PhD from a Top 100 global university
• access to UTS online facilities and resources
• high-quality research training and professional skills development 

Study requirements

The study expectations of PhD by distance mode students are the same as on-campus students. This means that you will:

• need to meet the same admissions requirements , including English-language proficiency
• be supported by a panel of supervisors
• complete any mandatory coursework
• go through the same candidature stage assessments as other PhDs from your faculty
• be subject to the same student rules that govern PhD study at UTS
• have the same expected timelines for your study as other PhD students
• be liable for the same course fees as other international students unless you are assessed as eligible for a tuition fee scholarship

Support and development

As a fully-enrolled UTS student, you’ll have access to a variety of forms of support for your research, your professional development as a researcher, and your own health and wellbeing, including:

• UTS Library’s extensive digital catalogue and one-on-one researcher support
• online skills development workshops and training modules, including in areas like research writing, software training, and project management
• personalised advice from UTS Careers and access to online resources 
• inclusion in the online research student Teams channel

Find more information about the support available to you as a distance mode PhD student  (PDF, 0.8MB).  Please note that not all benefits available to on-campus students exist in digital form or translate to distance study.

Find out more: Distance mode is available for international students. Read all admissions requirements → There are scholarships that can help with fees. Find out more about the costs of a PhD by distance → Ready for the next steps? Explore the application process → 

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Masters degree.

 One to two years

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 Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours); or Graduate Diploma. For some postgraduate qualifications, you might be accepted if you have significant, relevant work experience.

A masters degree is a specialised course that requires you to find advanced answers to complex problems or questions.

Studying for a masters degree can help you become a leader in your field, or lead to further study in a doctoral degree (PhD). 

There are three main types of masters degrees: 

• Masters Degree (Research): The purpose of this degree is to produce research or add new knowledge in your field. You will usually need to complete a large project or a thesis (long essay of 20,000 to 40,000 words). 
• Masters Degree (Coursework): In a masters degree (coursework) you can focus on professional practice or your academic field of study. As part of your studies, you may need to complete a large project or a minor thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words). 
• Masters Degree (Extended): In this type of masters degree, you will usually focus on professional practice. As part of your studies, you may need to complete a large project or a thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words).

Note: Some masters degrees have ‘exit points’ within them. These may allow you to stop your studies at a certain point and be awarded a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. These are described below. 

Doctoral degree or doctorate (including PhD)

Three to four years

Bachelor Degree (Honours) with a research component; or Masters Degree.

This is the highest award on offer at Australian universities. 

There are two types: 

• Doctorate by research, also known as a Doctor of Philosophy or PhD requires you to conduct original, in-depth research, often leading to a potential career in academia. Once you graduate, you will be given the title of ‘Doctor’.  
• Professional doctorate: This doctoral degree is a coursework qualification. Upon completion, you will also be given the title of ‘Doctor’ but this qualification that usually has an outcome related to a profession. 

In both types of doctoral degrees, you will review literature, undertake experiments or investigate new methods, making a major contribution to knowledge in your field. The result is often a major project or thesis (40,000 to 60,000 words).

Find out about Australia’s world-class research.

Other postgraduate qualifications

Graduate certificate.

•   Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours).
• In some cases, you might be granted admission if you have significant, relevant work experience.

A Graduate Certificate can be studied on its own or as a pathway to further studies, usually to advance to a Graduate Diploma. This type of qualification can help you build your knowledge and skills for your current career, or help you change careers. 

Graduate Certificates are usually delivered by universities and by non-university and private higher education providers.

Graduate Diploma

• Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours); or Graduate Certificate.

A Graduate Diploma is the next step up from a Graduate Certificate. It involves twice as many study units (subjects) and can be studied as a standalone qualification, or as part of a masters degree. 

Graduate Diplomas are usually delivered by universities and non-university government private higher education providers.

Bachelor degree (honours)

Usually four years in total (a four-year degree with the final year being the Honours year); or one additional year after a three-year Bachelor degree, depending on academic results.

•  For the four-year program: Year 12 or equivalent; Certificate III or Certificate IV in TAFE or vocational education and training (VET).
• For the one-year program: Bachelor degree 

Graduating with an Honours degree shows that you have the ability to reach high academic standards, and that you have advanced project management and research skills. Your qualification can lead to further research-based studies, like a PhD, or can give you a strong set of skills for future employment.

In some cases, an Honours year will be built into your degree from the beginning (usually a four-year degree). In other cases, if you graduate from your Bachelor degree with high grades, your education provider might give you the opportunity to complete an additional year of study. This will allow you to graduate ‘with honours’.

An Honours year will usually involve some coursework and a large project or a written thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words). 

Note: All Bachelor degree (honours) courses must meet the same requirements, and they are at the same level in the Australian Qualifications Framework.

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Australia rethinks age limit for post-PhD work visas

Lower work rights cut-off would have excluded most doctoral graduates, critics warned.

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In a rare piece of good news for Australia’s  beleaguered  international education industry, the federal government has reversed its decision to deny post-study work rights to foreign research degree students aged over 35.

The Department of Home Affairs has revealed that overseas graduates of PhD and research master’s programmes will be exempt from an adjustment to the age limit on temporary graduate visas (TGVs), to come into force in July.

While the new cut-off will apply to graduates of taught master’s, bachelor’s, associate degree and vocational programmes, higher research degree recipients will maintain their eligibility for TGVs until they turn 50.

When it announced the lower age limit in its December  migration strategy , the government said it was “repositioning the visa as a product for early career professionals who can contribute to the Australian economy over a longer period”.

Critics warned that the new rule would exclude the high-skilled foreigners the government said it wanted to retain. The Group of Eight  said  around half of the PhD students enrolled with its universities were international, and 40 per cent of overseas doctoral graduates were in their 30s or older.

The lowering of the age limit was also framed as a way of addressing a discrepancy between TGVs and permanent residency, which has an age cutoff of 45. This mismatch left many older graduates in immigration limbo, the government argued.

UNSW Sydney legal student Sonia Qadir, part of a group of foreign doctoral candidates campaigning against the change, said enquiries with the government had failed to unearth any reasons for its plan to replace the five-year discrepancy with one that was twice as long.

Ms Qadir, who expects to complete her PhD this year, said many international doctoral candidates hoped to stay on in Australia for work experience if not permanent residency. “Once you’ve had…experience, your research is going to be much more useful. It’s going to be much more interesting; much more rigorous.

“It’s just the nature of this degree that it’s going to usually be done by people who are a little older. It’s quite likely that you’re going to be in your early to mid-30s when you begin, and some people are even starting in their 40s. We’ve been advocating on those lines for a few months, and we’re really happy to see that those efforts have borne fruit.”

Having worked as a  human rights lawyer  in her native Pakistan, Ms Qadir plans a new career as an academic. “It’s really useful to have…international experience in academia to be competitive in the job market internationally. I’ve also built my life…during the trajectory of my PhD in Australia. I have built an intellectual community as well.”

The new rules entitle higher research degree graduates to stay in Australia for up to another three years, with an extra year or two available to those from India, Hong Kong and the UK. The government has also maintained the 50-year cut-off for Hong Kong and British passport holders irrespective of the level of their qualifications.

Foreigners  dominate PhD enrolments  in many science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, constituting 65 per cent of doctoral candidates in engineering and 63 per cent in information technology, according to the latest available Department of Education statistics.

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You'll need to be aged 35 or younger to apply for this visa. These PhD students say it's 'unfair'

International phd students say they will be forced to leave australia due to an age cap imposed on a popular graduate visa..

Credit: Boy_Anupong

• From 1 July, the age limit for applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa Class 485 will be reduced from 50 to 35.
• Affected students say academic and industry experience prerequisites for some doctoral programs will make meeting the new age requirements very difficult.
• In 2022, 40 per cent of PhD students in Australia were aged 30 and above.

Reconsidering Australia as a destination for PhD studies

'Rules changed in the middle of the game'

Reducing numbers of migrants who are 'permanently temporary'

Call for 'exemption' for phd students.

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Can you do a PhD without a master’s degree?

Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022  ·  6-minute read

If you want the most straightforward answer to the question ‘can you get a PhD without a master’s degree’, it’s yes. Should you apply to study a PhD without a master’s though? Let’s unpack that.

There are quite a few entry requirements you need to meet to apply for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). At the core of it, all these requirements are about proving you’re ready to embark on the long (3-4 years full time) and challenging – but incredibly rewarding – process of conducting research and writing a thesis. PhD prerequisites are there to assess your preparedness for this type of study.

So, let’s have a look at what the PhD prerequisites are in Australia and the questions we’re commonly asked about them.

Can I do a PhD without a degree?

In Australia, you’ll need to have completed a degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) relevant to your proposed research topic and approved by the university to be considered as a candidate. However, the good news is, for those of you wondering ‘can you get a PhD without a bachelor’s?’ the answer is yes – it is possible at some universities.

Say you finished high school and went straight into the workforce. You built experience in your field over years of hard work. After a while, you decide that you’d like a qualification to solidify your knowledge and skills, or to upskill in your area and open even more doors. So, you apply for postgraduate studies.

Many universities in Australia will consider applicants for postgrad study (typically graduate certificates) based on proof of extensive professional experience and other post-secondary studies (certificates from TAFE, for example) in a relevant field, rather than the traditional completion of bachelor’s level studies.

Admission into a graduate certificate without a bachelor’s degree is very much dependent on your study area of choice and the institution at which you wish to study. Always check the specific prerequisites of the institution and program.

In most cases, if you want to study a PhD and you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, but you do have a lot of industry and research experience in your field, you’ll need to start your journey by enrolling in a graduate certificate and working your way up to a master’s and then a PhD. It’s possible to get into a PhD program with a graduate diploma (and no bachelor’s or master’s degree), but you’ll need extensive documentation proving former research experience to support your application – plus a decent GPA. This type of application is assessed on a case-by-case basis by some universities and can be extremely competitive.

Do you need a master’s for a PhD?

As we said earlier, no – you don’t need a master’s to apply for a PhD. And if you're wondering more specifically ‘is an MPhil required for a PhD?’, the answer is also no. It may make logical sense at face value to complete a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and then go on to study a Doctor of Philosophy, but in reality, it tends to work a bit differently.

All these types of postgraduate degrees and higher degrees by research can be a little confusing to keep track of, so let’s break it down into simpler terms.

So, here’s how some of the pathways through these degrees work.

• Some students decide to study and complete a Master of Philosophy, as it’s shorter than a PhD but still allows them to delve into a research project and produce a thesis (~40,000 words).
• Other students begin studying an MPhil then find they’d like to take their research further and apply to upgrade to a PhD program, adding a few more years onto their studies and producing an 80,000-word thesis.
• Many students aim big from the get-go and apply directly to a PhD program after having completed either a bachelor’s degree with honours or a master’s by coursework.

This is by no means an extensive list of ways in which you can order your studies; it’s just a few of the most common paths taken by university students interested in postgraduate studies and higher degrees by research.

The benefits of studying a master’s before a PhD

Now we’ve established that you can apply to study a Doctor of Philosophy without a master’s degree, let’s address the next big question: should you? Here are just a handful of the reasons why completing a master’s before moving onto a PhD is generally a good idea:

• It gives you a competitive edge compared to other applicants.
• It will provide you with a taste of what it’s like to conduct long-form research and reveal what it takes to be a good PhD student .
• You'll have a chance to explore a research topic to see if there’s enough scope to turn it into your PhD, or you may find offshoot topics that could be explored in more detail.
• You'll experience what it’s like to work with a supervisor and better understand if this process suits your personality type.

Can I go straight from bachelor’s to PhD?

Yes. Most universities will accept applications from students who have a bachelor’s degree with honours (typically at least IIA) as their highest level of completed study. Some universities may accept a bachelor’s degree without honours but with several years of relevant research experience, or a bachelor’s degree without honours but followed by a relevant graduate certificate or graduate diploma.

As we've emphasised above, there are definite benefits to completing further studies after your undergraduate degree to prepare you for your PhD. It’s understandable that you might want to fast-track your way to your Doctor of Philosophy, but remember that going in as prepared as possible will help you get the most out of your research.

If you don’t want to commit to a master’s program after your undergraduate degree but you still have your heart set on a PhD, talk to your course convener about fitting research units into your study plan during your bachelor’s program. Completing a graduate certificate or diploma following your bachelor’s, with a focus on the research area you wish to pursue with a PhD, will help you get a clearer idea of potential research topics too.

There are opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students to apply for one of UQ’s summer and winter research programs . These programs can help to boost your knowledge and skills in research and your field of study – and better prepare you for PhD studies.

When considering whether or not to apply for a PhD without a master’s degree, remember that the process is competitive, and it can take time to find the right supervisor . Having a master’s degree could put you ahead of other applicants and secure you that valued place as a PhD candidate.

Want to know more about how a PhD works? How do you find a supervisor? What are the best tips for writing your proposal? Find answers by reading our comprehensive guide: How to get a PhD.

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