Course Overview

About This Course

The Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (DR-PHILMDH) marks a student's admission to the community of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences scholars. It signifies that the holder has undertaken a substantial piece of original research, conducted and reported via thesis, that is careful, rigorous and demonstrates a completed research apprenticeship. The PhD demonstrates authority in the candidate's field and command of knowledge in relevant fields, with the thesis making a distinct contribution to knowledge judged on originality of approach. Candidates may commence at any time between 1 February and 31 October, subject to prior arrangement with a nominated supervisor. It is an internationally recognised and highly transferable qualification designed for graduates to demonstrate academic leadership, independence, creativity and innovation in their research work.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC 3006

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Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Tuition Fee

Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset Scholarship — eligible domestic students are exempt from tuition fees for up to 4 years

Duration

4 years full time

Intakes

Flexible - see How to apply

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

A four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline including a substantial research component (at least 25% of one year full-time study) with a minimum weighted average of 80% in final year subjects or (University of Melbourne) equivalent, OR a masters degree in a relevant discipline with an equivalent research component and minimum weighted average of 80%, OR equivalent qualification and professional experience
A research proposal, referee reports (except for UoM graduates within the last 5 years), and the endorsement of a prospective supervisor
Applicants must meet the University's English language requirements
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Internationally recognised and highly transferable qualification designed for graduates to demonstrate academic leadership, independence, creativity and innovation in their research work
Prepares graduates for careers in academic research, clinical/health research, and specialised roles across medicine, dentistry and health sciences

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Relevant National Health Practitioner Board / AHPRA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

VETASSESS / relevant health board

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units1 units

Thesis (Doctor of Philosophy)

Original supervised research in Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, examined via thesis of 80,000-100,000 words, completed over a maximum of four years full-time.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences?

The Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences can be completed in 4 years full time or 8 years part time.

Where is the Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences taught?

The course is taught on campus at Parkville.

Is there a combined Psychology and PhD program available in the health sciences area?

Yes, the University of Melbourne offers both a Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology)/Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology)/Doctor of Philosophy, both completed over 5 years full time on campus at Parkville.

Are there any short courses related to health and medicine available at the University of Melbourne?

Yes, the University of Melbourne offers short courses including Neurological Rehabilitation eLearning (20 hours, start anytime, 605 AUD inc. GST) and Clinical Costing Fundamentals and Analyses (10 hours, start anytime, 511 AUD inc. GST).

What other doctoral degrees are available in the health sciences area at the University of Melbourne?

In addition to the Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, the University of Melbourne offers the Doctor of Dental Surgery (4 years full time, starting January, on campus at Parkville) and the Doctor of Medicine (4 years full time, starting January, on campus at Parkville).

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!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level — Intern / PGY1 (0-2 years)AUD $70,000 to $95,000 per year

Early Career — Resident / Registrar (2-5 years)AUD $95,000 to $160,000 per year

Mid-Level — GP / Junior Specialist (5-10 years)AUD $160,000 to $300,000 per year

Career Paths

Intern / Postgraduate Year 1 (PGY1) DoctorResident Medical Officer (RMO)General Practitioner (GP)Rural GeneralistEmergency Medicine Physician

Key Skills

Clinical diagnosis and patient assessmentMedical history taking and physical examinationEvidence-based clinical reasoning and decision-makingPharmacology and safe prescribing practicesProcedural and surgical skills

Full Course Overview

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