Doctor of Philosophy
Degree Level Research
Year 2025
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You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Campus
Magill
Duration
4 year(s) full-time
Program Code
MPDE
Study as
Full-time
or part-time
Program level
Doctorate by research
Fees
Fees for research students that have exceeded their RTP entitlement are calculated at the course level.
Refer to the Research Training Program
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Entry requirements
You must check the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for and make sure you are eligible.
Please note- If you are an international applicant you also need to check that you meet the English language requirements.
- Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not automatically guarantee entry into a research degree.
Degree overview
- Develop the ability to independently design and execute original research that generates new knowledge.
- Benefit from our extensive national and international research links, our world class research1 and strong record in winning national competitive grants.
- Undertake exciting and innovative research in the broad field of education.
- Work under the guidance of experienced and highly qualified research supervisors.
- Learn from visiting scholars and artists.
- Create your project around your professional and research interests and community engagement.
- Work in a dynamic research environment.
- UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities2, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
2UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.
Why do a research degree?
UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. We are vibrant, outward-facing and responsive. We partner with industry, government and communities to seek answers to questions that arise in the real world.
Learn more about our research.
The transformed PhD
UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed research that supports employer-relevant curriculum. To achieve this, and to produce entrepreneurial and business-aware graduates, we have developed the transformed PhD.
We have added a structured component to research degrees including enhanced skill development, supervisory panels and a technology-enabled oral defence of the thesis. Through these activities you will develop a set of professional, transferable skills relevant to our knowledge-based enterprise economy.
The aim of the transformed PhD is to increase your employment prospects in any career path. You will possess the knowledge, expertise and confidence to meet the emerging needs of academia, industry, government and the community.
Four good reasons to do a research degree
- Challenge yourself. You will need to work hard, be dedicated and think analytically at a high level. You will tackle completely new research and different research methods, or extend research already undertaken.
- Increase your career opportunities. A research degree provides evidence of independent thought and the ability to manage a research project in a given timeframe. Your research could allow you to develop a new specialisation, academic field or career. A research degree at UniSA will also allow you to develop a skillset which sets you apart, putting you at the centre of your professional development.
- Make your ideas public. Your research findings may be published, presented at conferences, provide a commercial return and have a positive impact on society.
- Contribute to society. Discover new methods, understandings and techniques, and solve a real-world problem.
What can I research?
Research students have the opportunity to undertake exciting and innovative research in the broad field of Education.
Our research is facilitated by a range of different research communities, including the Centre for Islamic Thought and Education, the Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning, the Centre for Research in Educational and Social Inclusion, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
You may also choose to study an alternate subject matter that does not fit within these research communities. To do this you must find a suitable supervisor who specialises in this field.
Your career
A PhD will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in academia, or in research with a research institution or university. Alternatively, you may choose to work in your chosen specialisation. For students of Aboriginal Studies there are a range of employment options, including:
- ongoing research in Aboriginal Studies
- teaching and lecturing in Aboriginal Studies
- policy development
- government and non-government organisations involved in Aboriginal health, housing, education and employment
Advanced research experience may also be the gateway to the Australian Public Service or leading NGOs, where you will be qualified to work across a range of sectors.
Before applying, you will need to do some investigation. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of preparing your application to maximise your chances of success.
Please check the research degrees calendar for all key dates.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you.
Research Training Program domestic (RTPd) and UniSA Postgraduate Awards
These scholarships are based in areas of research strength across the University and include a stipend and fee offset.
Research Themes PhD Scholarships
These scholarships address local, national and international grand challenges, and encourage collaboration with industry and community partners.
What others are saying
My PhD is investigating the ways in which the culture and practices can foster students’ sense of belonging as a foundation for their engagement in learning. This experience has exposed me to more learning experiences than I ever anticipated and I am very grateful for that.
Megan Curry
Doctor of Philosophy
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Your study spaces
Opportunities exist to study at Magill and City West campus, depending on your area of research.
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How do I apply?
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/Research/Degrees/
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What scholarships am I eligible for as a research degree student?
You are eligible for a range of scholarships and grants as a current research student. For example, the prestigious Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarship, Maurice de Rohan International Travel Scholarships or one of UniSA’s International Travel Grants.
See Scholarships and Prizes for more information.
