Studying a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) involves undertaking research that leads to new knowledge or re-interpretation of existing ideas, theories and approaches. The aim is to develop a thorough understanding of your field and relevant methodologies, and the capacity to critically evaluate and present your work.

You will demonstrate your capacity for critical analysis and capacity for pursuing scholarly and programmatic research. You will learn how to frame, express and convey ideas in a clear and convincing way.

Research opportunities are available across a range of disciplines in the School of Communication and the Arts.

• Location:
  Dependent upon supervision
• College:
  College of Arts
• Study mode:
  Full Time and Part Time
• Delivery mode:
  On campus
• Course code:
  APSD
• Duration:
  4 years
• This information is for Australian residents.
  Click here for the international version of this course

How to apply

Career opportunities include:

• commissioning editor for a specialist academic journal
• presenting at different conferences and travel throughout Australia and around the world
• employment with a university conducting research
• visiting key international research institutes

Learn more about your career options on the Australian government's Career Information and Resources website.

The School of Communication and the Arts (CATA) offers supervision for Doctorate programs in many areas, some examples are: Applied Linguistics and Sociolinguistics; Asian Studies; Australian Literature and Literary Theory; Clinical/Counselling research; Communication Studies; Creative and Professional Writing; Cultural Studies; History; Literary Studies; Media and Cultural Studies; Multimedia; Multicultural Studies, Performance Studies; Post-colonial Studies; Gender Studies.

The research thesis must be original work conducted under the supervision of the student advisor/s and with the approval of the Postgraduate Studies Committee of the University. The thesis of the candidate will be examined externally by examiners of high academic standing in the area of the candidate's thesis topic. Coursework may be required of candidates to further enhance the knowledge of a specific topic relevant to the field of study. Such coursework could run concurrent to the research.

Note that a creative thesis project takes the form of a major creative work by the candidate and a scholarly exegesis on such a work.

• Mature: To qualify for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy applicants must have a Masters degree or four-year undergraduate degree with Honours at first class (H1) level. Applicants who do not meet the normal admission requirements may be admitted upon demonstration of exceptional background and experience. Initial contact should be made with the CATA Higher Degrees Research Coordinator to clarify their proposed area of research. Applicants will need to discuss availability of suitable supervision for their program and any facilities or support they will require.