Doctor of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) (S9S)

Career outcomes

In Australia and around the world, Doctor of Philosophy graduates are highly regarded as potential employees.

The Doctor of Philosophy is a demonstration of a candidate's ability to conceptualise and implement an independent program of research, manage a project, organise resources, work and cooperate with colleagues and communicate effectively in writing at a high level. As a result, PhD graduates have the opportunity to pursue diverse career paths, including professions in research and academia, as well as a broad spectrum of professions in the public and private sector.

Course structure

A Doctor of Philosophy is a course of supervised research and professional development conducted over 3-4 years (full-time) or 6-8 years (part-time), culminating in the examination of a thesis or creative equivalent, by at least two external examiners.

PhD Candidature is structured around a series of milestones:

Draft Research Plan submitted at 3 months equivalent full time enrolment
Confirmation of Candidature by 12 months equivalent full time enrolment
Annual Reviews of Progress at 24 and 36 months equivalent full time enrolment
Thesis or creative equivalent submission for examination no later than 48 months equivalent full time enrolment

PhD candidates are concurrently enrolled in a Graduate Certificate in Research designed to provide you with a range of training activities and career development opportunities that assist in developing high-level research, communication and management skills. The skills obtained will give you an edge with future employment opportunities.

The University also offers candidate opportunities to engage in research seminars, present at conferences and participate in skill development workshops.

The campus of study will vary depending on the location of the candidate, the supervisor and the research field.