Research degrees

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Research course options

Research course options

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A research degree from the University of Canberra will set you up to make a real-world impact while you follow your passion. You鈥檒l build practical skills while working with talented experts across our diverse research areas.

We offer several types of higher degree by research options 鈥� PhD, professional doctorate and master by research programs. The course structures, length and outputs required will differ based on your research field and how you want to complete your research.

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

PhD Plus (Doctor of Philosophy)

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Join an innovative community of real-world-connected researchers in our Doctor of Philosophy 鈥� the PhD Plus. As a PhD Plus candidate, you鈥檒l experience a contemporary, leading-edge research program while under the supervision of a world-renowned expert in your research field.

You鈥檒l conduct independent and specialised research and can choose additional 鈥楶lus鈥� elements that will enhance your studies, build your networks and expand your transferrable skills.

Beyond the in-depth academic experience, the unique 鈥楶hD Plus鈥� elements include internships and placements, industry mentoring, industry research projects, field work and lab exchanges, pitch presentations and competitions, and many other opportunities.

Over four years (full-time equivalent), you鈥檒l undertake research that culminates in a significant contribution of knowledge to your field, establishing yourself as an expert on your research topic. You'll present your research as a written thesis that includes a series of publications, or as a creative portfolio, presentation or exhibition accompanied by an exegesis.

A PhD Plus at UC offers much more than an excellent academic experience 鈥� you鈥檒l also access:

  • an industry-connected experience with extensive engagement through the 鈥楶lus鈥� elements of your course
  • the 91暗网 Researcher Development program, providing you with transferrable skills, additional support and valuable knowledge
  • supervision and mentoring from a specialist panel of experts whose research field aligns with your thesis topic
  • positive post-PhD career positioning 鈥� whether pursuing a future in industry or academia after your PhD, we鈥檒l help you develop the right skills and networks to get you where you want to be.
Learn more about PhD Plus

Professional doctorate

Professional Doctorate

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At UC, we鈥檙e committed to world-class research that has a practical and relevant impact. We鈥檝e developed our professional doctorate programs as advanced study, designed specifically for industry and professionals.

The four-year (full-time equivalent) doctoral-level program combines research and coursework, and culminates in the submission of a dissertation (your thesis).

To improve your professional practice, we鈥檝e designed a rigorous, industry-connected program. In addition to your coursework and research, there may be some elements of professional work or industry experience required.

A professional doctorate at UC will give you a distinct professional advantage because:

  • our course is completely focused on your industry
  • it builds on your professional expertise by exposing you to leadership and challenging ideas in your field
  • the research you鈥檒l undertake will be highly applicable and focused on leading improvements in your workplace or professional context.
Explore our professional doctorates

Master by research

Master by research

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A master by research degree at the University of Canberra is a specialised, independent investigation of a research topic under expert supervision. It's similar to a PhD, but the scope of your investigation is generally more limited, and the length of study is two years (full-time equivalent) rather than four years. Research is available across an extensive range of faculty areas.

To complete a master by research degree, you鈥檒l need to submit a dissertation (your thesis). You鈥檒l graduate with a robust set of skills in problem solving, in-depth analysis and communication, all of which are highly sought after by employers and industry.

If you鈥檙e interested in deepening your research further and continuing your studies, the master by research is also an excellent gateway to a PhD as it provides a good introduction to research and the concept of working closely with a research supervisor.

Learn more about our master by research degrees

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