Doctor of Philosophy
    Duration3 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    AUD 24,539 / Year
    Next IntakeJuly 1, 2026

    Doctor of Philosophy

    About

    Overview

    The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded for high-level research and, as such, it is expected that candidates will make a contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. A PhD may be undertaken by three different means:

    1. Traditional PhD: A PhD candidate’s work is assessed on the basis of a c. 100,000 word thesis.
    2. PhD by Publication: A PhD candidate’s work is assessed on the basis of the submission of a thesis (c. 50,000 words) containing a number of papers written up as journal articles.
    3. PhD by Creative Project: A PhD candidate’s work is assessed on the basis of a thesis and a project, including but not limited to: a durable record of performance, exhibition of visual arts, writing, design, film, multimedia, CD, DVD, software program or other creative works.

    Further detailed information regarding requirements for the submission of a PhD may be located in the Guidelines on the Preparation and Presentation of a Research or Professional Doctoral Thesis for Examination.

    PhD (in Contemporary Humanism)

    ACU, in partnership with Lumsa Università, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC), Institut Catholique de Paris (ICP), Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) and Lyon Catholic University (UCLy), seeks to appoint one outstanding candidate to the PhD (in Contemporary Humanism). The program aims to develop knowledge and critical skills in reading and interpreting the historical, cultural, literary, philosophical and educational tradition in its making, and in its effects on the present, from the point of view of the category of “humanism”.

    Learn more

    ACU strongly encourages students to be fully vaccinated. With our industry and community placement partners requiring vaccination, and with public health orders regularly changing - students can avoid interruption to their studies, placement and graduation requirements by becoming fully vaccinated.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    For admission to one of our postgraduate degrees, you must hold the equivalent of an Australian bachelor degree from a recognised university or institution with a pass average. 

    If your previous study has equipped you with knowledge, skills or experiences that align with the learning outcomes of units in your new course you may be able to apply for recognition of prior learning and you may be able to complete your course sooner. Speak to your course consultant for more information or to discuss your eligibility.

    English Requirements

    • IELTSMin 6.5

    English Program Requirements

    English language requirements

    If applicants have an overseas qualification/s from an institution where English is not the standard language of instruction, they will need to meet ACU’s English proficiency requirements, e.g Academic IELTS 6.5 (including individual scores of 6.0 for all tests). Refer to Appendix C of the Higher Degree Research Regulations.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    24,539 / year

    Doctor of Philosophy

    Australian Catholic University

    Australian Catholic University

    Australia

    Australia, Sydney