Key details
Duration
Intake
Locations
Entry requirements
View full entry requirementsCredit points required
320Overview
Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, candidates undertake a novel and significant program of research, under the direction of two or more supervisors. The candidates then communicate the results of this research in a thesis or another approved format. To facilitate their research and their career, candidates also need to complete additional training and other activities in line with the Higher Degree by Research Policy
Fees
Domestic Students
Domestic students incur no fees, as these are covered by an Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship. You may also be eligible for an extra stipend payment to assist with your living costs while you complete your research project. Learn more about domestic scholarships.
International students
International students do have to pay fees to undertake a research degree at CDU, however scholarships are available to reduce these fees. Learn more about international scholarships.
International tuition fees
The annual tuition fee for full time study is AUD $31,500.00. This equates to $ $3,937.50 per 10 credit point unit (0.125 EFTSL).
These fees are subject to increases annually, effective at the start of each calendar year.
You can find a list of International fees and payments you can expect to pay as part of your studies in Australia.
CDU offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist with the cost of study.
Why study a higher degree by research at CDU?
Undertake your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at CDU and you’ll be supported by committed supervisors who are experts in their fields.
- 82% of CDU's research is rated at world standard and above (RA Research Excellence Rankings Analysis 2018)
- Top 100 university globally for quality education (THE Impact Rankings 2021)
- Unique research opportunities found only in the Northern Territory
Why study a higher degree by research at CDU?
Undertake your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at CDU and you’ll be supported by committed supervisors who are experts in their fields.
- 82% of CDU's research is rated at world standard and above (RA Research Excellence Rankings Analysis 2018)
- Top 100 university globally for quality education (THE Impact Rankings 2021)
Why study a higher degree by research at CDU?
Undertake your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at CDU and you’ll be supported by committed supervisors who are experts in their fields.
- 82% of CDU's research is rated at world standard and above (RA Research Excellence Rankings Analysis 2018)
- Top 100 university globally for quality education (THE Impact Rankings 2021)
- Unique research opportunities found only in the Northern Territory
Why study a higher degree by research at CDU?
Undertake your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at CDU and you’ll be supported by committed supervisors who are experts in their fields.
- 82% of CDU's research is rated at world standard and above (RA Research Excellence Rankings Analysis 2018)
- Top 100 university globally for quality education (THE Impact Rankings 2021)
What will I study?
PhD Candidates complete a research project, usually over 3 to 4 years. During this time, they must also complete
Course structure
> additional training around research integrity, research methods, communication, personal development, and career development
> a research proposal and oral presentation to confirm their candidature
> a second oral presentation midway through their candidature
> a third oral presentation towards the end of their candidature
> a thesis, usually comprising 60,000 to 100,000 words
Instead of a thesis, some candidates may complete a creative output, such as a film, novel, or exhibition, as well as an exegesis or explanation of this work, usually comprising 30,000 to 50,000 words.
Study plan
Recommended Study Plans are not required for this course.
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
To be eligible, you must have completed
- the equivalent of one semester of research activity, such as a thesis, at a Masters level
- the equivalent of one semester of research activity at an Honours or Graduate Diploma level and achieved a distinction or higher overall
- comparable levels of research, such as scholarly publications
You must also plan to conduct research that is compatible with the research priorities and resources of this University. When you apply, you must submit a research proposal, comprising 500 to 1000 words. The research priorities of this University tend to revolve around
- tropical, regional, and remote health - including nursing, midwifery, and allied health
- environmental studies
- energy, resources, and engineering
- social and public policy in Northern Australia and the region
- community resilience
- cybersecurity and IT
- business and law
- education
Essential requirements
English language requirements
To gain entry into Charles Darwin University, all Higher Education applicants must satisfy the University's English Language Proficiency Requirements for their chosen course of study. International applicants will be required to supply evidence of this at the time of application.
The minimum English language requirement for this course is met by either undertaking previous education in an English-speaking country or undertaking one of the following English language tests and obtaining the minimum requirements listed below.
| IELTS Academic Module | A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. |
| Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) | A minimum overall score of 176, with no skill below 169. |
| Common European Framework Certificate of English Proficiency | A minimum overall grade of C1, valid for three years from the date of the test to the date of commencement at CDU. |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic module | A minimum overall score of 58 with no score lower than 50. |
| TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) | A minimum overall score of 79 with a minimum writing score of 21. |
* All tests are valid for two years from the date of the test to the date of commencement at CDU, unless otherwise specified.
* Where applicable, international applicants must also satisfy the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) English language requirements for student visa applications.
Do you have a question regarding English requirements at CDU? Please email: international@cdu.edu.au.
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
CDU graduates have the best career and employment prospects. International students have ranked CDU 1st in Australia for learning and living experience
Hema
CDU student
The people-first approach to flexibility and supportive learning environment at CDU meant I could find a balance with study, work and family life.
Nikki
CDU student
CDU graduates have the best career and employment prospects. International students have ranked CDU 1st in Australia for learning and living experience
Hema
CDU student
Course details
Additional information
Contact details
For further information about the course, enrolment procedures, closing dates and other administrative issues please contact Student Central on:
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
How to apply
There are many ways to apply to CDU. The method you use depends on your course type, where you live and whether you are a new or returning student to CDU.
Remember to apply early for your best chance at securing an offer to study with us.
All applications for this course are submitted to the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) at Charles Darwin University. Applicants should refer to the information provided at "How do I apply?" on the ORI webpage and follow the steps provided.
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