Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is an internationally-recognised advanced research qualification.

Each PhD candidate undertakes a substantial piece of independent and sustained research on an original topic under academic supervision and leading to the submission of a thesis for examination. The research is expected to make a significantly new and innovative contribution to the discipline.

Candidates are supported by at least two accredited supervisors with a demonstrated track record in the proposed area of investigation as outlined in the Graduate Research Supervision Policy. Progress throughout the degree is tracked and managed in keeping with the University's Graduate Research Progress Policy. Candidature may be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, subject to the restrictions of the student visa.

The thesis must be submitted in no more than four years (or part-time equivalent) of commencement in the degree. All PhD programs are administered by the La Trobe Graduate Research School.

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 10 - PhD.

In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed a Master's by research degree in a relevant discipline completed within the last ten years assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 70 or above.

An applicant with a Bachelor (Honours), Master's by coursework or ungraded Master's by research degree completed within the last ten years may be eligible for direct entry to the PhD where:

1. their qualifying degree includes a research thesis of typically 15,000-20,000 words assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 70 or above; OR
2. their qualifying degree includes a written research component comprising at least 3/8 of one year of their qualifying degree assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 70 or above; OR
3. they are the lead author of a peer-reviewed publication or other research published within the last ten years assessed at a La Trobe Master's by research standard of 70 or above.

Schedule A – Master's by Research Thesis Grading Schema should be referenced in determining whether a Bachelor (Honours), Master's by coursework or ungraded Master's by research degree meets the La Trobe Master's by research standard.

6.5 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.

The Doctor of Philosophy is an internationally recognised intensive research doctoral degree that will equip graduates for employment in a range of occupations and positions across academic, government, nongovernment, education and private industries.