Higher Degrees by Research

Doctor of Philosophy

CRICOS 096608G
Master of Philosophy | Male working on laptop | Torrens University | LG

What is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)?

The Doctor of Philosophy is a highly regarded research degree, in which you will conduct independent research under the supervision and guidance of experts in their field. The Doctor of Philosophy requires the completion of a thesis which demonstrates original thought and academic rigour, and which makes a significant contribution to existing knowledge. The PhD is available to study on campus in Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, offshore and online.

Our Higher Degree by Research allows you to develop your research skills, so you are work-ready in academic and industry contexts. By conducting original research and practising cognitive flexibility, you will craft your professional identity and be able to communicate the impact of your findings to interested stakeholders in real-world applications.

More

Learning outcomes

  • A significant body of knowledge at the frontier of the field and make an original contribution in the context of ethical practice
  • Appropriate and purposeful research principles and methods for the field including any technical and creative skills for enhancing the work
  • Cognitive skills including critical analysis, argument and problem solving to design and implement a theoretical/practice proposition and apply intellectual independence to evaluate existing knowledge and to generate original knowledge
  • Appropriate and coherent communication skills to represent cogently a complex investigation of original research against international standards and communicate results to peers and the community
  • Intellectual independence and initiative, responsibility and accountability for planning and executing original research and for planning a research career, and demonstrate collaborative behaviours that generate intellectual activity.
Study mode
On campus, Blended
Campus locations*
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Online
Student
Domestic
International
Course duration
3 years full time, part-time options available
Start date
3 June 2024
16 Sep 2024
Fees & scholarships

This course is delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 03389E

*For more details on international student study options.

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Contribute new knowledge to your field
Make a significant and original contribution through thought leadership, advanced professional practice, through a research thesis and advanced professional practice portfolio.

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Be a catalyst for change
Become an innovative changemaker by challenging current research and finding new ways forward.

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Transferrable skills and a new career
Build upon your expertise, opening doors to unique career opportunities in academia and industry.
Career Opportunities | Higher Degrees by Research | Torrens University

Career opportunities

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) have a bright future. They will have demonstrated their preparedness for a career in research and analysis within government, higher education, research centres and private enterprises. Graduates will have demonstrated intellectual leadership, positioning them for roles such as those in the following areas:

  • Policy research
  • Research projects
  • Research & development
  • Academic research
  • Industry and government advising

Antinia Saunokonoko - PhD student testimonial
Undertaking a PhD at Torrens University Australia was a truly wonderful experience. My supervisors supported me and my ideas. The expertise I gained through my research led to opportunities in academic work and psychotherapeutic practice.
Antonia Saunokonoko
PhD

Subjects and units

  • Thesis

Thesis | PhD

Students conduct independent research under the supervision and guidance of experts in their field. Through this research, students make a significant and original contribution to knowledge through thought leadership. The PhD requires the completion of a thesis of not more than 80k words, which demonstrates original thought, academic rigour, and a sustained program higher order thinking. The thesis may be presented in one of the following formats: Standard Narrative, Thesis by Publication, Exegesis, or Folio.
Higher degrees by research | Torrens University

Research project

The Doctor of Philosophy is comprised of independent research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, culminating in the submission of a thesis, to be presented in one of the following formats: standard narrative, publication, exegesis or PhD by folio. You will be required to provide an Expression of Interest and a Research Proposal as part of your initial application.

Entry details

  • Domestic
  • International

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR, and eligible students can also apply for the Research Training Program scholarship (RTP). RTP Scholarships for 2022 are now closed.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Successful completion of a Masters degree by research from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average
OR
Successful completion of a Masters degree by coursework with a substantial element of research work from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average
OR
Successful first- or second class Honours degree from an Australian university or equivalent

Applicants not meeting the direct entry requirements may be considered for admission if the Higher Degree by Research Committee is satisfied that the applicant has significant scholarship or professional attainment
OR
Applicants may also be considered for admission to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Graduate Diploma of Research Studies(GDRS) or Graduate Certificate of Research Studies (GCRS).

View full course admission information

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Please contact the HDR Office at hdr@torrens.edu.au for more information.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Successful completion of a Masters degree by research from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average
OR
Successful completion of a Masters degree by coursework with a substantial element of research work from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average
OR
Successful first- or second class Honours degree from an Australian university or equivalent
Applicants not meeting the direct entry requirements may be considered for admission if the Higher Degree by Research Committee is satisfied that the applicant has significant scholarship or professional attainment
OR
Applicants may also be considered for admission to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Graduate Diploma of Research Studies(GDRS) or Graduate Certificate of Research Studies (GCRS).
Equivalent IELTS 7.0 (Academic) with skills band no less than 7.0 in writing and speaking and no less than 6.5 in listening and reading (or equivalent TOEFL, CAE or PTE).

View full course admission information

*For more details on international student study options.

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a Higher Degree by Research (HDR)?
  • What is the application process?
  • What is required in a Higher Degree by Research?
  • What is the time commitment for a Higher Degree by Research?

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