Doctor of Philosophy

Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidates undertake in-depth research in order to make an original contribution to the body of knowledge in their chosen discipline. This qualification can lead to, or enhance, an academic career and is also highly regarded by public and private sector employers. The PhD is the qualification normally required for academic employment at a university or research institute.

Candidates without previous research training deemed sufficient are advised to enrol in the Master of Philosophy or the PhD(Integrated).

Entry Requirements

Academic requirements and English requirements are available from the Course Finder.

Course Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the Doctor of Philosophy will be able to:

1. Demonstrate cognitive, technical and creative skills in a discipline area to plan and execute a substantial piece of research that makes a contribution to knowledge
2. Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and critically reflect on, synthesise and evaluate complex information, problems, concepts, and theories
3. Communicate a coherent and sustained argument, explaining and disseminating research results and conclusions to peers and to the community
4. Apply advanced knowledge of research, research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others, to plan and execute a substantial piece of research with a high level of autonomy, accountability, adaptability and responsibility for personal outputs.

Course Structure

Candidates are required to satisfactorily complete a major thesis to the value of 48 credit points per annum.

Assessment

On commencement, students and their supervisors complete a Commencement of Candidature Form that confirms the expectations of the candidacy, particularly for the first year, the research/creative topic, a plan and timetable for the creative work and dissertation, and resource needs and skills required to complete the project. Students meet regularly with their supervisors to ensure that their progress is in line with the agreed plan. Students and supervisors must also submit an Annual Progress Report (APR). The APR is the means by which the University assesses the progress of the candidature and decides whether it will continue into the following year. Supervisors who have concerns about a student's progress may also initiate a progress review at other times during the candidature.

The final submission for the PhD is examined by two external examiners chosen from a list prepared by the supervisor/s in consultation with the student and approved by the Head of Postgraduate Studies.

Research Proposal Reviews (RPR)

The University’s Progress Review Guidelines stipulate that no later than the completion of the equivalent of one year full-time enrolment in the research component of the course, students must present an oral research presentation and prepare a written research plan and preliminary literature review. Students must also provide a written timetable for the coming year, and a statement of the resources required to complete their project (e.g. access to laboratories, field trips, libraries, specialist equipment etc). In the Faculty this Review encompasses student’s research in terms of both their theoretical and creative/practical work (where applicable).

Time Limits

A full time candidate will normally complete the PhD in three years. The minimal time in which to complete the degree is four (4) consecutive sessions (not including Summer Sessions) for full time students, the maximum is eight (8) sessions (not including Summer Sessions). Part time students should complete the course in a minimal time of eight (8) sessions and a maximum of sixteen (16) sessions. Under special circumstances, a candidature may be extended beyond the maximum time following a satisfactory review of progress.

Research Areas

Students can choose to study in different research areas.

Interdisciplinary topics as negotiated with the Head of Postgraduate Studies are also available for study.

Credit Arrangements

Credit and articulation arrangements are available from the Course Finder. Refer to UOW's credit arrangements for information on how to apply for credit.

Other Information

Students are advised to consult the University's Code of Practice - Supervision.

For further information about the Faculty's areas of research strength, please consult the Faculty's website.

For more technical information about the degree progress, please consult the website of the University's Office of Research.

Further information is available at:
UOW Course Finder
Email: lha-enquiries@uow.edu.au