Doctor of Creative Arts

Research strengths in creative practice at UOW include music, theatre, performance, creative writing, visual arts, digital media and design. Applications from all these disciplines are encouraged, as well as any projects working in interdisciplinary forms.

Candidates are required to produce a substantial body of creative work supported by a written exegesis of approximately 30,000 words. There is an integral relationship between the creative work and the exegesis, and the DCA is practice-based, meaning you will make a significant contribution to both your creative discipline and the area of inquiry within which the work is located.

You need an Honours Bachelor degree of at least 4 years' duration in an appropriate discipline at Class II, Division 1, or higher (or its equivalent), along with demonstrated evidence of high artistic attainment. Examples of high artistic attainment include publication or professional dissemination of work, grants, fellowships and prizes, critical acclaim, and a track record of sustained high-level professional activity. Higher Degree Research applicants must also provide supporting material with their application.

Higher Degree Research (HDR) applications can be submitted online at any time. The course has two intakes in 2026: Autumn session starting 2 March 2026, and Spring session starting 27 July 2026, both at the Wollongong campus.

Yes, DCA candidates are expected to actively contribute to the research culture of the University. You will be invited to participate in lectures and workshops on creative arts research practices and other relevant topics.