Research Programs
The completion of a higher degree by research (HDR) at the University of Adelaide will provide you with the skills and experience to undertake a range of rewarding career opportunities. Employers recognise that the research ability and broad range of transferable skills which Adelaide graduates possess equip them well for challenging and diverse roles in industry, government and business, as well as in research and academic organisations.
Choosing the right degree for you is an important decision and one that will be influenced by your career plans, personal circumstances and prior qualifications. We recommend that you discuss the options with the relevant School. Of course, plans and circumstances can change over time and the University of Adelaide provides you with the flexibility to adapt your study pattern accordingly; this may involve converting to half-time or external candidature, taking a short leave of absence from study or perhaps transferring to a more appropriate program.
The admission requirements for each of these degrees are set out in the relevant set of academic program rules.
We recommend all students read the Considerations in Applying for a Higher Degree by Research.
-
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD is the basic qualification for a research career or academic position. The PhD involves two to four years of research for a full-time candidate or the equivalent in half-time candidature. In the course of completing the degree under appropriate supervision, candidates develop the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality and make a significant original contribution to knowledge in their chosen discipline.
-
Joint Higher Degree by Research (HDR)
Between Australian Higher education Providers
Under the provisions of an approved Jointly-Awarded PhD agreement, a PhD student at the University of Adelaide, who is a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, or a permanent resident of Australia, may divide his/her candidature between the University of Adelaide and an approved Australian Higher Education Provider (HEP) and, following the successful completion of an agreed examination process, be awarded a single doctoral degree that is awarded jointly by two institutions.
With International Collaborators (including the Cotutelle)
PhD programs that are Jointly-Awarded with an international collaborator are also available to University of Adelaide domestic and international research students.
Related information:
-
The Professional Doctorate
The University offers two (2) professional doctorates by research in the disciplines of Education and Nursing. Professional doctorates combine research, project activity and advanced coursework in a single program of study and are specifically aimed at practitioners in the field.
To qualify for a professional doctorate, a candidate is required to pass each component of the program individually and to complete any coursework or project requirements before submitting his/her thesis for examination.
-
Master of Philosophy
The Master of Philosophy is offered in every faculty as the sole research masters degree available to prospective research students. Candidates can choose to undertake the degree by either 100% research or by mixed research and coursework.
-
Master of Clinical Science
The Master of Clinical Science is available by 100% research or, by mixed research and 15 units coursework. The aim of the Master of Clinical Science degree is to train students in research methodologies and techniques associated with evidence-based healthcare and in the critical evaluation of evidence and research.
-
Higher Doctorates
Higher doctorates are typically awarded on the basis of a collection of works that have been published or accepted for publication by the candidate.
Any enquiries about higher doctorates should be directed to the Adelaide Graduate Centre or the relevant Head of School.
Level 6
115 Grenfell Street
The University of Adelaide
South Australia 5005
Australia
T: +61 8 8313 5882
F: +61 8 8313 5725
