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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Information provided on this page includes:

  1. Course overview
  2. PhD by external candidature
  3. Entry requirements
  4. Application process
  5. Further information

1. Course overview

Course code: 0057 / 3531
CRICOS code: 003925G
First offered: 1974
Campuses: Clayton, Gippsland, or by external mode
Duration: Up to 4 years (full-time), up to 8 years (part-time). Part-time candidature is allowed for local applicants only
Fees for local students: No course fees (Australian citizens and permanent residents are exempted from course tuition fees under the Research Training Scheme (RTS))
Fees for international students: Course tuition fee of $26,200 (2008 rate)
Conditions of candidature: refer to the Handbook for Doctoral and Master of Philosophy Degrees

The Monash PhD requires a candidate to undertake a prescribed program of research under the direct supervision of a member of the academic staff. All schools and research centres within the faculty provide facilities for postgraduate research work leading to the PhD thesis.

The thesis should be a significant contribution to knowledge in the discipline concerned and demonstrate the candidate's capacity to carry out independent research. The length of the thesis may vary across disciplines and should not normally exceed 100,000 words. There is also the option to submit a series of referenced publications ('thesis based or partially based on conjointly published or unpublished work’) as an alternative to a traditional thesis.

2. PhD by external candidature

External candidature allows candidates the flexibility to undertake a higher degree by research while in their workplace. It also provides the opportunity for the candidate to spend a substantial period in an acclaimed and reputable institute or industry outside Monash University.

3. Entry requirements

Completion of a bachelors degree: a four-year bachelor degree (which normally includes a research component in the fourth year) with honours 1 or 2A in a relevant field, or
Completion of a masters degree: a masters degree with a significant research component in a relevant field from Monash University or any other recognised tertiary institution; or
Completion of a masters preliminary course: a masters preliminary qualification deemed to be equivalent to the above requirements
English language proficiency requirements: applicants must meet Monash University’s minimum English language proficiency requirements to gain entry into the PhD

4. Application process

  1. Determine the school or centre in which you intend to undertake your course (please also consult the list of faculty research strengths and the research supervisor matrix to identify a potential supervisor).
  2. Consult chapter 2 of the Handbook for Doctoral and Master of Philosophy Degrees for details of application procedures for admission to doctoral candidature
  3. International applicants should consult the information given on the Monash International Recruitment Services website
  4. Submit completed application forms. Local applicants: apply via the Monash Research Graduate School (MRGS) and International applicants: apply via Monash International Recruitment Services. Applications are accepted at any time.

5. Further information