Course Overview

About This Course

The Doctor of Philosophy is a highly regarded research degree, in which you will conduct independent research under the supervision and guidance of experts in their field. The Doctor of Philosophy requires the completion of a thesis which demonstrates original thought and academic rigour, and which makes a significant contribution to existing knowledge. Our Higher Degree by Research allows you to develop your research skills, so you are work-ready in academic and industry contexts. By conducting original research and practising cognitive flexibility, you will craft your professional identity and be able to communicate the impact of your findings to interested stakeholders in real-world applications.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Sydney, NSWMelbourne, VICBrisbane, QLDAdelaide, SAOnlineSydneyMelbourneBrisbaneAdelaideSurry HillsLeuraFORTITUDE VALLEY

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic Students:

Successful completion of a Master's degree by research from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average; OR
Successful completion of a Master's degree by coursework with a substantial element of research work from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average; OR
Successful first or second-class honors degree from an Australian university or equivalent; AND
Research proposal accepted by supervisory panel.
Applicants without formal qualifications at AQF8 or above may be considered for entry to the Graduate Certificate on the basis of a combination of formal (below AQF7) and work experience and may pathway to the PhD through the GCRS, GDRS and a distinction average GPA in these studies.
Admission to the PhD program is contingent on the applicant's proposed field of study, proposal, the research being acceptable to the university and the availability of appropriate supervision.

International Students:

Successful completion of a Masters degree by research from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average; OR
Successful completion of a Masters degree by coursework with a substantial element of research work from an Australian university or equivalent with a Distinction average; OR
Successful first- or second class Honours degree from an Australian university or equivalent; OR
Work life experience demonstrating the ability to undertake study at the required level which may include approval of prior study or successful completion of a readiness assessment.
Research proposal accepted by supervisory panel.
English Language Proficiency: IELTS 7.0 (Academic) with skills band no less than 6.5 (or equivalent TOEFL, CAE or PTE).

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) have a bright future. They will have demonstrated their preparedness for a career in research and analysis within government, higher education, research centres and private enterprises. Graduates will have demonstrated intellectual leadership, positioning them for roles such as those in the following areas: Policy research, Research projects, Research & development, Academic research, Industry and government advising.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units1 units

Thesis

Students conduct independent research under the supervision and guidance of experts in their field. Through this research, students make a significant and original contribution to knowledge through thought leadership. The PhD requires the completion of a thesis of not more than 80k words, which demonstrates original thought, academic rigour, and a sustained program higher order thinking. The thesis may be presented in one of the following formats: Standard Narrative, Thesis by Publication, Exegesis, or Folio.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application process for the Doctor of Philosophy at Torrens University Australia?

The first step is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to HDR@torrens.edu.au along with supporting documentation including official and certified copies of all academic transcripts and certificates, proof of citizenship, evidence of English Language Proficiency (if applicable), copies of or links to any research publications authored by you (in English), and an up-to-date curriculum vitae. If the EOI is approved, you will then be requested to submit a two-page Research Proposal that advances your research idea and proposed methodology.

What format can the PhD thesis be submitted in?

The PhD thesis of not more than 80,000 words may be presented in one of the following formats: Standard Narrative, Thesis by Publication, Exegesis, or Folio.

What are the English language requirements for international students applying to the PhD?

International students are required to demonstrate English Language Proficiency with an IELTS 7.0 (Academic) score with skills band no less than 6.5, or an equivalent score in TOEFL, CAE, or PTE.

Are scholarships available for PhD students at Torrens University Australia?

Yes, Torrens University Australia offers partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss these options with international and domestic admissions on application, or contact the HDR Office at hdr@torrens.edu.au for more information.

What is the time commitment required for the Doctor of Philosophy?

A full-time HDR course requires a 40-hour commitment each week. HDR students are entitled to four weeks of annual leave and can apply for 12 months of additional leave due to exceptional circumstances such as illness or injury. Although the academic year at Torrens is divided into three trimesters, HDR students do not have trimester breaks and are expected to work consistently throughout the year.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $70,000 to $90,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $90,000 to $115,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $115,000 to $150,000 per year

Career Paths

University Lecturer or Senior LecturerAssociate Professor or ProfessorPostdoctoral Research FellowSocial ResearcherPolicy Analyst

Key Skills

Advanced qualitative and quantitative research designCritical analysis of social and cultural theoriesSystematic literature review and bibliographic managementEthnographic and fieldwork methodologiesDiscourse and narrative analysis

Full Course Overview

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