PhD (Design)

RMIT University

Australia, Melbourne

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RMIT University

Australia , Melbourne

Key Facts

Program Level

PhD (Philosophy Doctorate)

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

099063M

Application Fee

AUD 100

Campuses

Melbourne City

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesJuly-2025

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 4 year(s)

Tuition Fee

AUD 42,240 / year

Next Intake July-2025

PhD (Design)

About

The RMIT School of Design is internationally recognised as a leader in design education, research and practice. With industry connections and social grounding, the School is focussed on the future of design.

This program is an exploration of new territories of design research, contributions to the knowledge base of the discipline, and work toward the redefinition of aspects of design. It also develops advanced research skills to prepare you for a career in industry, academia and other settings that require systematic and critical analysis.

We believe that research is conducted through designing and that utilising this process as a means of increasing knowledge parallels research in fascinating ways. Candidates are supported and engaged in communities of practice that share interests, ideas, discourses and ways of doing things, and explore the boundaries of design thinking.

The Doctor of Philosophy may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

A bachelor's degree requiring at least four (4) years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology subjects that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year. OR
A master's degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average; OR
A master's degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average; OR
Evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy.

English Program Requirements

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Career

Upon graduation, you may pursue an academic career or senior positions in studios, galleries, museums, festivals, non-government organisations, art organisations, companies and venues.

You will also be able to work as research fellows and postdoctoral research fellows on postdoctoral research projects in university and government organisations.

Fee Information

Tuition Fee

AUD 42,240

Application Fee

AUD 100

How to Apply

Step 1: Find a course

Step 2: Check the entry requirements

Step 3: Collect required documents

Step 4: Submit your application

If you are applying for on-campus study in a coursework program (Bachelor, Associate Degree or Honours), use the online application system for international students.

Remember, our team are experts in RMIT study options and how to apply, so contact the team if you need support with your application.