Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's highest qualification. The degree is undertaken by research only and leads to advanced academic and theoretical knowledge in a specialist area.

The PhD is suitable for students who want to pursue an academic or research career, or a senior position in the public or private sector. Doctoral studies present you with the opportunity to generate new ideas that can benefit business and society. You will make a significant original contribution to knowledge and understanding in your field of study and meet recognised international standards for your work.

Minimum PhD entry requirements

Must normally have completed the following in a discipline appropriate to the proposed research:

• Master’s degree with honours OR
• Bachelor’s degree with honours (equivalent to 4 years of study)

The degree must normally have been gained at the standard of first class or second class (first division) honours from this University or a recognised equivalent.

The degree should include advanced learning in research, execution of a research project and a written report on the research.

International student entry requirements

English language requirements

Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences

• IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with 6.5 in Writing and no band less than 6.0

All other study areas

• IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with 7.0 in Writing and no band less than 6.0

English language requirements

Other requirements

Acceptance is subject to the availability of staff for supervision, prior research preparation and appropriate facilities.

AUT classes are taught in English. If English, Māori or NZ Sign Language is not your first language, you need to prove you have the minimum level of English for your AUT qualification.

We need to assess your level of English to ensure you can succeed in your programme. AUT does not accept responsibility if you fail courses because of a lack of competence in English.

The opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you gain through a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are extensive, and AUT PhD graduates move on to exciting careers both within and outside academia.

Where can a PhD lead?

Academic careers

The research methods, writing and knowledge dissemination skills you gain through a PhD are an excellent grounding for the teaching and research requirements of an academic career.

Many PhD graduates move on to postdoctoral research fellowships or lectureships as a pathway into academia.

Other careers

As New Zealand's only university of technology, AUT has a focus on applied research, which uniquely prepares our graduates for real-world careers. Our PhD graduates apply their research and project management skills to a huge variety of industry, civil service or non-profit pathways.

If you're interested in a career in entrepreneurship and innovation, we also have excellent optional entrepreneurship and research commercialisation programmes.