Doctor of Philosophy

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.

Course Structure

To complete the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a student must complete 240 credit points (cp).

Graduate Statement

As an ACU graduate you have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen and a scholar. You embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You are empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.

Insight

As an ACU graduate you value human dignity and diversity. This appreciation is founded on deep reflection, and empathy. You have experience of Indigenous Knowings and perspectives and can engage respectfully when working alongside Australia's First Peoples. You can connect with people and cultures and work with community in ways that recognise the dignity of the human person and all cultures

Imagination

As an ACU graduate you utilise imagination and innovation to solve problems. You critically analyse information from a range of sources to creatively solve practical problems and use critical thinking to make decisions and advance the common good. You appreciate the role of innovation and creative thinking in developing a better future for each person and community.

Impact

As an ACU graduate you recognise your responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world founded on a commitment to human dignity and the common good. You lead change through respectful collaboration and effective communication of ideas to diverse peoples, groups and communities in local and global contexts. You are empowered to positively impact your profession and the community.

AQF Framework

Doctorate by research - AQF Level 10

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for Admission to the course applicants must evidence as per Section 5 of the Higher Degree Research Policy:

• an Australian undergraduate degree with Honours (Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF level 8) at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average) or international equivalent; or
• a Masters degree by research (Distinction average) successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field; or
• a Masters degree by coursework (Distinction average) with appropriate research training including a substantial component of original research, successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field; or
• a qualification equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 completed to at least distinction average with appropriate research training including a substantial component of original research in a relevant discipline or related field; or
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants with professional experience or cultural expertise in Indigenous Knowledges or kinship connections and who demonstrate capacity to undertake an independent research project on Indigenous Knowledges; or
• other professional experience demonstrating research training equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 and capacity to undertake an independent research project.

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).

Fees

Commencing domestic candidates enrolling in a master-by-research or doctoral degree at ACU will be offered a Research Training Program Fee Offset Scholarship under the Australian Government's Research Training Program.

Scholarships

ACU offers a number of scholarships to domestic and international research candidates. Information about these scholarships, including the application process is available.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

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Overview:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a leading Catholic university in Australia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its strong commitment to faith and values, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

ACU provides a comprehensive range of student services, including:

Academic Skills Development:

The Academic Skills Unit offers support in developing essential study skills, academic writing, referencing, maths and numeracy, and exam preparation.

Campus Ministry:

Provides spiritual guidance and support to students.

Career Development Services:

Offers career advice, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Connect2Uni:

Provides support and resources for first-year students.

Counselling Services:

Offers confidential counselling and support for students' mental health and wellbeing.

Disability Support:

Provides tailored support for students with disabilities.

Medical Centres:

Offers healthcare services on campus.

Student Advocacy:

Provides support and guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Services:

Offers dedicated support and resources for Indigenous students.

Student Veterans Support Program:

Provides support and resources for students who have served in the military.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

ACU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with opportunities for students to:

Join clubs and societies:

Participate in a wide range of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Engage in creative and cultural activities:

Participate in various events and activities, including arts, music, and theatre.

Develop leadership skills:

Take advantage of leadership opportunities within clubs, societies, and student associations.

Participate in ACU Sport:

Access gyms, fitness classes, and sports facilities, and join sports clubs and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Catholic values and ethics:

ACU's commitment to faith and values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Comprehensive student services:

Provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a diverse range of clubs, activities, and events to enhance the student experience.

Focus on practical skills and real-world application:

Emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge relevant to future careers.

Strong reputation and rankings:

ACU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia.

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Academic Programs:

ACU offers a wide range of academic programs across its four faculties:

Faculty of Education and Arts:

Offers programs in education, arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Offers programs in nursing, medicine, psychology, and allied health.

Faculty of Law and Business:

Offers programs in law, business, and economics.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy:

Offers programs in theology, philosophy, and religious studies.

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Other:

ACU has campuses located in Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Rome, and Strathfield. It also offers a range of online programs through ACU Online.