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Doctor of Philosophy

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About this course Overview, structure, opportunities

Research is an exciting journey of discovery, where you'll be working at the ever-shifting boundary between the known and the unknown. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's flagship research degree, which can be taken in any discipline area in the University.

Introduction

The PhD is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge.

Course description, features and facilities

The PhDcomprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by a student, supervisor, head of school and the Board of the Graduate Research School. It may be undertaken in any school in the University. 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 the result of a new theory. The thesis demonstrates a student's ability to document and interpret results, formulate theories and discuss the results in light of the current literature to a high level of competence.

Structure

A PhD program comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by a student, supervisor, head of school and the Board of the Graduate Research School. It may be undertaken in any school in the University. Maximum candidature is four years (full-time equivalent). 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 the result of a new theory. The PhD is assessed on the basis of a thesis submitted at the end of the program and examined by three external examiners. The thesis should show a student's ability to document and interpret results, formulate theories and discuss the results in the light of the current literature to a level of competence required in published materials.

A PhD thesis must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, for example through the discovery of knowledge, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.

(1) A student must submit a thesis after the completion of a course of supervised research and advanced study in a subject or subjects approved by the Board.

(2) The course of supervised research and advanced study may include—

(a) courses, lectures, seminars and other work as the supervisor and head of school concerned directs; and

(b) studies and investigations culminating in such reports as the supervisor(s) direct(s).

(3) On the recommendation of the appropriate head of school and supervisor, the Board may prescribe study additional to the requirements of (2).

A student must provide particulars of the progress and results of the research to the supervisor(s) from time to time and whenever requested.

Career opportunities

PhD graduates move into a wide range of careers, depending on their areas of research. The traditional pathways are to research and academic careers, but many graduates progress into other professional areas, including management. Because the PhD is a demonstration of a graduate's ability to conceptualise and implement an independent program of research, manage a project, organise resources, work with other people and communicate effectively in writing at a high level, it is a ticket to many destinations.

Related careers

Further study opportunities

Higher doctorate

These pages are under review and are being updated.

Check the Entrance requirements

Entrance requirements English and prerequisites

This course is available to Australian and international students.

Australian students

Admission Requirements

To be accepted an applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient background and experience in independent supervised research to successfully complete a PhD. The normal requirement is for a bachelor's degree with at least upper second class honours in an appropriate discipline. However, applications are also considered from:
(1) graduates of this University (or equivalent) who can demonstrate to the University that they have had adequate research preparation since graduation;
(2) applicants who have previously undertaken work, which is of a sufficiently high standard, towards a research higher degree in this or another approved institution but have not submitted it for any degree and have had their research proposals approved; or
(3) applicants who have satisfactorily completed an acceptable preliminary program at this University or an approved institution and have had a research proposal approved by the University.

English competency

See the full list of English language requirements.

Advanced standing

If you have undertaken prior tertiary study within the last five years, you may be eligible for advanced standing (credit and/or exemption).

Applications for advanced standing are assessed upon acceptance of any offer of admission made by the University.

International students

Prerequisites

As a rule, international students must:

Have a bachelor's degree, or equivalent, in a relevant discipline (where required), completed to a sufficiently high standard;
Meet the specific prerequisites for the course. (Refer to admission requirements for this course)
Meet UWA's English language requirement.

English competency

All prospective international students must meet the English language proficiency requirements of the University. Please refer to our English language competency requirements for the English language requirements for higher degrees by research.

Advanced standing

Students with previous tertiary level qualifications will be considered for advanced standing (credit).

These pages are under review and will be updated in early 2013.

How to apply

How to applyIntakes, application forms, dates

This course is available to Australian and international students.

Australian students

Application Deadlines

Applications can be made from January to November each year.

How to apply

How to apply for a Postgraduate Degree by Research

Fees

With the exception of international students, no fees will be charged to any student admitted to UWA for a research higher degree at UWA.

Australian students undertaking research courses are therefore exempt from paying student contributions and tuition fees as part of the Research Training Scheme.

International students

Application Deadlines

Applications for research-only master's or PhD programs can be submitted at any time of the year.

How to apply

International postgraduate applicants are encouraged to contact the relevant faculty or school to discuss supervision and resources prior to submitting an application. Following this, prospective candidates must complete the postgraduate application form and submit it through an authorised UWA overseas representative or directly to the UWA International Centre.

Fees

Prospective international PhD candidates should refer to the research course fee list for the relevant field of study fee.

Contact details - admission information

UWA International Centre (M352)

Address: The University of Western Australia
35 Stirling Highway
Crawley, Perth
Western Australia 6009
Telephone: (+61 8) 6488 3939
Fax: (+61 8) 9382 4071
Contacts: International Centre
Enquire on-line: askUWA
Location: UWA Map
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm

About UWA: Find out what makes UWA an internationally recognised university.

Foundation and preparatory courses: There are a range of programs available to help give you the opportunity to gain the academic qualifications or prerequisites required for admission to UWA.

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These pages are under review and will be updated in early 2013.