Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences)

School of Health Sciences

Are you interested in a research-based degree in the field of philosophy? The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a thesis-based research degree. The degree program is individually designed and built around the methodological requirements of the research and the nature of the topic to be investigated; we consider your background. Candidates may be asked to undertake further coursework to extend their knowledge and skills as a basis for the research component. Contact us today to arrange a meeting.

• Why study this degree?

  Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) degree become formed, through their research projects, in the methods of their chosen discipline.

  All research students are assigned supervisors who are part guides and part advisers in the journey towards completing the degree. Before applying, please get in touch with the University’s Research Office to arrange a discussion with a suitably qualified academic staff member.

  The maximum time for completion of the Doctor of Philosophy (not including periods of approved leave of absence) will generally be three calendar years for a full-time student and six years for a part-time student. The minimum time for completion will typically be two years.

• Program summary

  The Doctor of Philosophy is a thesis-based research degree, normally comprised exclusively of supervised research, but which can include research training coursework if appropriate.

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

• Entry requirements

  The following criteria are required for a student to be admitted to the PhD program:

  • Completion of a research Masters degree (by research or course work and thesis), appropriate to the professional field of the applicant (or equivalent) at a high level of achievement; or
  • A Bachelor’s degree with Honours (Class 1 or Class 2A Honours level or equivalent); or
  • In exceptional circumstance, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the Dean of the School and the PVC-R to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research at a doctoral level.

  An applicant may be required to demonstrate an ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study or as deemed appropriate by the Dean of the School.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply expert, specialised cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a substantial research project that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge, professional practice and/or creative practice
  2. Synthesise, evaluate, and critically analyse a substantial and complex body of knowledge and/or practice at the frontier of a field/s of research
  3. Communicate research findings clearly and fluently, to both peers and the community
  4. Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings; and
  5. Conduct research with intellectual independence, creativity, adaptability, responsibility, and accountability.

• Career opportunities

  A Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) can lead to careers in academia, industry, government and non-government organisations, scientific research, specialist consultancy, clinical and non-clinical health settings, research management, and executive-level management.

• Real-world experience

  You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  
  

  International Full-Fee Paying
  Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

  
  

  Research Training Program (RTP)
  The Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to support students who are undertaking a Higher Degree by Research such as a Research Doctorate or Research Masters degree. You will receive support for a maximum of two years for a Research Masters and a maximum of four years for a Research Doctorate degree. Your offer will specify for which purpose(s) your grant may be used. This may include offset of your tuition fees, as a stipend for general living costs or as an allowance related to the ancillary cost of research degrees.

  For indicative fees and information on Postgraduate and Research Scholarships available, please visit our HDR Scholarships page.

  
  

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?

  Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session. Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.

  
  

  For more information, please contact our Prospective Students Office.

  Fremantle and Broome Phone: +61 8 9433 0533 Email: future@nd.edu.au

  Sydney and Melbourne Phone: +61 2 8204 4404 Email: sydney@nd.edu.au

  
  

  All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on international@nd.edu.au.