Program Overview

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Doctor of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology)

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a thesis-based research degree that allows students to work closely with two academic supervisors to undertake a significant piece of research. The program is designed to make a substantial and original contribution to knowledge, professional practice, and/or creative practice.

Why Study This Degree?

A PhD is a research degree that has been individually designed and built around the research methodology required, the nature of the thesis topic, and the candidate's background. Candidates will benefit from ongoing support, mentoring, or involvement in our research culture.

Program Summary

The Doctor of Philosophy is a thesis-based research degree, normally comprised exclusively of supervised research, but which can include research training coursework if appropriate.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy, applicants must meet the University's minimum requirements for admission. The requirements for admission are detailed in the University's Policy.

Applicants to the Doctor of Philosophy Award are expected to satisfy the following criteria:

• Possession of a research Masters appropriate to the professional field of the applicant; or
• Possession of a Bachelor's degree with Honours (typically 1st Class or Class 2A Honours level or equivalent); or
• In exceptional circumstances, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the National Head of School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Doctoral level.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Doctor of Philosophy, graduates will be able to:

1. Apply expert, specialised cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a substantial research project that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge, professional practice, and/or creative practice.
2. Synthesise, evaluate, and critically analyse a substantial and complex body of knowledge and/or practice at the frontier of a field/s of research.
3. Communicate research findings clearly and fluently, to both peers and the community.
4. Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics, and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings; and
5. Conduct research with intellectual independence, creativity, adaptability, responsibility, and accountability.

Partnership with the Catholic Institute of Sydney

This program is offered through an exclusive partnership with the Catholic Institute of Sydney (CIS) and provides the option to participate in this program externally, at one of the eligible CIS campuses or through Notre Dame, at the Fremantle or Sydney campus.

Supervision

As a Doctor of Philosophy candidate, you are required to have a minimum of two supervisors who will provide support and academic guidance through your degree. Supervisors will assist with the preparation of a research proposal and will mentor and direct you through your research.

Mode of Study and Assessment

You may undertake the program in a full-time or part-time capacity. The standard time for completion (not including periods of approved leave of absence) will normally be 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time.

Research Focus

The School of Philosophy and Theology hosts doctoral research projects through the Fremantle and Sydney campuses, with some students studying remotely. PhD projects tend to proceed in our School's research strength areas, which include:

• Catholic theology
• Historical theology
• Philosophical theology
• Religious Education
• History of Philosophy
• Philosophy of Religion
• Ethics
• Sociology of Religion

Career Opportunities

A Doctor of Philosophy can lead to careers in academia, industry, government, and non-government organisations, scientific research, specialist consultancy, research management, and executive-level management.

Scholarships

Domestic students are eligible to have all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course fees paid for by the Commonwealth Government through a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship. International students are required to pay full fees but may apply for a wide range of scholarships made available to candidates of exceptional potential.

Fees and Costs

This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

• International Full-Fee Paying
• Research Training Program (RTP)

For indicative fees and information on Postgraduate and Research Scholarships available, please visit our HDR Scholarships page.

More Information

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