The Doctor of Philosophy is the University’s flagship research award and is the standard pre-requisite for a career in research or academia. The PhD involves three – four years of research for a full-time candidate or the equivalent in half-time candidature.

As one of the most highly research-intensive and respected universities in Australia and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight , The University of Adelaide is the smart choice for your research program. The University is committed to providing unique opportunities for graduates and researchers who are recognised as worldwide leaders for their vision and capacity to address global research challenges.

All PhD students at the University have the opportunity to broaden their research experience through the Career and Research Skills Training (CaRST)  program.

A PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by the student, their supervisors and Head of School. The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as a result of a new theory. In addition, PhD students complete a minimum of 120 hours of relevant professional development activities through the University's Career and Research Skills Training (CaRST)  program.

Progress through the degree is tracked through the completion of a number of key milestones. These milestones provide an opportunity for the University to review progress and ensure that candidates are well supported to complete their degree in a timely manner.

The award of the degree is based on the examination of a thesis by no fewer than two external expert examiners of international standing. Acceptable thesis formats include a conventional written narrative, publication, combination and a major creative work plus exegesis. In all cases, examiners assess the thesis on a number of key criteria including its capacity to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge in the chosen field of research. The final outcome is determined by the University following review of all the examiners' reports.

The PhD is a demonstration of a graduate’s ability to conceptualise and implement an independent program of research, manage a project, organise resources, work with other people and communicate effectively both orally and in writing at a high level.  Accordingly, a wide range of career opportunities are available to PhD graduates. The traditional pathways are to research and academic careers, however, increasingly, graduates progress into other professional areas, including management.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Research Manager;  Research Scientist;  Research and Education

To gain admission into a Doctor of Philosophy, you’ll need one of the following: a relevant University of Adelaide Honours degree (or equivalent), with at least a second-class Honours (upper

English language proficiency requirements

IELTS (ACADEMIC) - Overall Score 6.5 All Other Bands 6.0

TOEFL (INTERNET BASED TEST) - Total score 79 Writing 21 Speaking 18 Listening & Reading 13

PEARSON TEST of ENGLISH (ACADEMIC) - Overall Score 58 All Other Bands 50

C1 ADVANCED - Overall Score 176 All Other Bands 169

You can apply for admission at any time throughout the year.