Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the major research degree offered by the Melbourne School of Health Sciences. As a PhD candidate you will undertake a substantial piece of original research under academic supervision.
The work submitted must satisfy the examiners that it makes a significant and new contribution to the discipline and communicates research findings effectively in the professional arena and in an international context. Supervision is normally through a supervisory panel with one principal supervisor.
PhD degrees in the Melbourne School of Health Sciences are entirely research-based degrees assessed by thesis. Candidates must write a thesis of 80,000 to 100,000 words, which is examined externally.
Candidates are encouraged to complete methodological courses of study during their candidature to support the development of research and writing skills.
The normal period of candidature is three years for full-time candidates (6 years of part-time study) with the possibility of two, six-month extensions (or two 12 month extensions for part time candidates).
PhD admission requirements
The minimum requirement for admission to PhD candidature is a four year honours degree from an Australian university, a masters by research or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered by the Research Higher Degrees Committee to be equivalent. Graduates with honours from either a social work or health sciences degree are welcome to apply.
Applicants must also meet the University's PhD entry and English language requirements.
Residential requirements
All PhD candidates are required to spend a minimum of 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (part-time) at the University. This can be conducted in blocks.
Further information regarding candidature can be found in the PhD Handbook, produced by the Melbourne School of Graduate Research.
Application process
For information on how to apply, please see our pages on How to apply and Preparing your application.
Enquiries
For further information, please contact Ms Corliss Chan, Research Higher Degrees Officer or telephone +61 3 8344 9430.