C02041v4 Doctor of Philosophy

Note(s)

Research degrees are offered on a sponsored, scholarship, faculty part-sponsored, or full-fee-paying basis. Contact UTS: Education or the University Graduate School for further details.

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy is designed to meet the needs of those who wish to pursue a career in research or academic life. In this program, candidates embark on high-level research in one of the areas of research strength within UTS: Education.

Admission requirements

Normal admission requirements are:

• a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours (division 1) or master's degree in education or a related discipline
• evidence of a strong academic record, based on previous study and/or on relevant publications (applicants are required to provide UTS: Education with a copy of a previously completed thesis, piece of substantial academic writing or research report as part of their evidence of academic record)
• evidence of research capacity, based on successful completion of research related coursework and/or successful completion of previous research
• a research topic that is aligned with a research area of the faculty, and
• development of an outline of intended research (OIR) that gives a background to the intended area of research, makes a case for its significance and importance, and explains its connection to a research area of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Course duration and attendance

The maximum course duration is four years of full-time, or eight years of part-time study.

Students can complete in less than the maximum time. For all courses involving a major thesis there is provision for early submission of the thesis on application. A candidate who wishes to extend candidature must seek permission from the University Graduate School Board.

Course structure

The Doctor of Philosophy is structured in two phases. Phase 1 (first two semesters) involves the development of a number of advanced research skills and capabilities. At the beginning of the program, each student negotiates a candidature plan with their supervisor and the higher degree program coordinator. This plan makes explicit the kinds of support each student requires. Part of the support provided by the program is a structured series of research development activities on, for example, research literacies and knowledge about methodologies. Within this structure students work collaboratively with their supervisors, other academics and fellow students to develop their research proposals. A formal Doctoral Assessment is undertaken at the end of Phase 1 in which the candidates present a full proposal for assessment, which is a prerequisite for entering Phase 2.

In Phase 2, PhD students develop their individual program of research, culminating in a major thesis which makes a sustained contribution to knowledge in their field of inquiry. They participate in a range of research and development activities throughout this phase to assist them in developing the capabilities of a successful doctoral graduate in education.

Course completion requirements

Other information

Further information is available from the UTS Student Centre on: