Program Overview

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree provides training and education with the objective of producing graduates with the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality. A PhD candidate will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.

Overview

• Duration: Full Time - 3 Years (Available Part Time)
• Next Start Date:
  • 05 January 2026
  • 30 March 2026
  • 22 June 2026
  • 14 September 2026
• Campuses:
  • Parramatta City
  • Parramatta South
  • Penrith
  • Bankstown City
  • Hawkesbury
  • Campbelltown
• Program Code: PhD
• CRICOS Code: A

Research at Western

The award of a PhD is a recognition of successful research experience of international standard in the discipline.

• Doctorates are completed within 3 years full-time candidature, with a maximum enrolment of four years full time, or part-time equivalent.
• Candidates undertake their independent research under the expert guidance of a panel of supervisors.

Entry Requirements for Domestic Students

To be eligible for admission, you must have previously completed at least one of the following degrees:

• Bachelor (Honours Class 1 or Class 2) degree
• Master of Research degree
• Master of Philosophy degree
• Degrees from a university or other tertiary institution equivalent to the above If you do not meet the admission criteria, the approval of prior research experience or other degrees is at the discretion of the relevant School Dean or Institute Director.

Entry Requirements for International Students

Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course. You can read more about international academic entry requirements.

Indicative Annual Fee

Please see below for more details. The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change.

Career Opportunities

As a Doctor of Philosophy graduate, you can look forward to career opportunities in settings such as:

• Academia, industry, government and non-government organisations
• Scientific research
• Specialist consultancy
• Research management
• Executive-level management

FAQs

We have compiled a list of answers to some of the most common enquiries regarding Higher Degree Research, as well as information around fees.