PhDs and doctorates
The PhD
Graduation with a PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, marks a student's admission to the community of scholars in his or her discipline.
The PhD is awarded on the basis of an 80,000 word thesis, in which the candidate reports on an independent, sustained and academically-supervised research project investigating a specialised topic.
The candidate's research is expected to make a significant new contribution to the discipline. In some disciplines, creative work or performance may form part of the thesis.
Some PhD programs in the University of Melbourne may also incorporate coursework, but all PhDs are assessed via external examination of the research thesis alone.
Duration
The usual duration of PhD study is three years, full time.
Entry requirements
The minimum entry requirement for the PhD is an Australian four-year honours degree, or its equivalent, in a relevant discipline with a minimum overall average grade equivalent to an H2A (75%) grade achieved at the University of Melbourne.
Applicants who do not have a four-year honours degree must demonstrate they have conducted a research project equivalent to 25% of a year's full-time study at fourth-year, or masters level.
Applicants must also demonstrate the relevance of their research experience to their proposed topic of research.
In some cases, a GMAT or GRE test result is also required.
Visit the Melbourne School of Graduate Research for full detail on PhD entry requirements and regulations
English language requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the specified English language requirements.
Application process
Professional doctorates
Professional doctorates are offered in Dentistry, Education, Medicine, Music and Veterinary Science. These programs provide specialised training to advance practice and knowledge in the relevant professional field. Doctorates are offered through coursework and research.
Duration
The usual duration of Doctoral study is three years full-time.
Entry requirements
Minimum entry requirements vary between faculties. Most require a combination of professional qualifications and experience in the appropriate field of practice.
Check Course Search for entry requirement information. Search by keyword "doctor".
English language requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the specified English language requirements.