Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting at the University of Technology Sydney is an advanced research degree designed for individuals seeking to make significant contributions to the field of accounting through original research. This program offers a rigorous academic environment that fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and innovative approaches to complex accounting issues. Candidates will engage in comprehensive coursework complemented by independent research under the supervision of experienced faculty members, many of whom are leading experts in areas such as financial reporting, auditing, management accounting, and corporate governance. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore various theoretical frameworks and employ diverse methodologies to address real-world challenges faced by accounting professionals, regulators, and organizations. The PhD in Accounting prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or high-level consultancy roles in the private sector. It emphasizes the development of academic writing, presentation, and dissemination skills, enabling candidates to publish their findings in reputable journals and contribute to scholarly debates. The program typically lasts three to four years for full-time students, with flexible options for part-time study. Students benefit from UTS’s strong industry connections, research centers, and collaborative projects that enhance their practical understanding of the evolving accounting landscape. With access to modern facilities, comprehensive resources, and a vibrant scholarly community, candidates are well-equipped to become leaders in accounting research and practice. The PhD program also promotes ethical research practices and encourages students to consider the social and environmental implications of their work. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to influence future standards, policies, and methodologies in accounting, advancing both academic knowledge and practical application in the profession.

Candidates are required to complete a thesis of approximately 50,000–70,000 words. Candidates may also be required to undertake some coursework in research methods and/or theoretical knowledge in the core fields of study. During their candidature, students' progress is monitored via assessments and regular progress reports.

• Applicants must have completed a UTS recognised master's by research or bachelor's degree with first or second class honours (division 1), or an equivalent or higher qualification, or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate research studies.
• Previous qualifications must be in business or a related discipline. Each applicant is required, prior to application, to contact the Business School well ahead of the closing date for applications for a pre-assessment.
• Applicants are also required to submit a brief thesis proposal or statement of research interest with their application.
• The English proficiency requirement for international students or local applicants with international qualifications is: Academic IELTS: 7.0 overall with a writing score of 7.0; or TOEFL: paper based: 584-609 overall with TWE of 5.0, internet based: 94-101 overall with a writing score of 23; or AE6: Pass; or PTE: 65-72; or CAE: 185-190
• Visa requirement: To obtain a student visa to study in Australia, international students must enrol full time and on campus. Australian student visa regulations also require international students studying on student visas to complete the course within the standard full-time duration. Students can extend their courses only in exceptional circumstances.

International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS)

Each year, the Australian Government Department of Industry provides a number of International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) to eligible candidates. These scholarships allow students of exceptional research promise to undertake full-time postgraduate study in Australian universities.

Value:

The IPRS covers the annual tuition fees in a Doctoral or Masters Degree by research, as well as covering the cost of a standard Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the awardee and their dependants. The duration of a full-time scholarship is 3 years for a PhD candidate and 2 years for a Masters candidate.

The IPRS is extremely competitive and only a few are awarded per year.

UTS Business School Doctoral Scholarships

The UTS Business School offers full-time PhD scholarships for study in any one of the School's six research areas: Accounting; Economics; Finance; Management; Marketing; or Health Economics.

The scholarships are allocated on the basis of the terms and conditions specified by UTS and the Business School.

Value:

Each scholarship comprises an annual tax-free stipend at the level of an Australian Postgraduate Award.

The scholarships are for a period of three years and are subject to satisfactory progress.

The scholarship may be supplemented by a limited amount of teaching and/or research assistant activity within the Business School.

UTS:INSEARCH Doctoral Scholarships

With the generous support of UTS:INSEARCH, the UTS Business School offers one full-time PhD scholarship a year for study in any one of the School's six research areas: Accounting; Economics; Finance; Management; Marketing; or Health Economics.

Value:

This scholarship comprises an annual tax-free stipend at the level of an Australian Postgraduate Award.

One new scholarship is normally awarded each year. The scholarships are for a period of three years and are subject to satisfactory progress.

The scholarship may be supplemented by a limited amount of teaching and/or research assistant activity within the Business School.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is a research-intensive program designed for scholars seeking to contribute new knowledge to the field of accounting. This doctoral program offers students the opportunity to undertake in-depth research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, fostering academic excellence and innovation. The program typically emphasizes rigorous research methodology, critical analysis, and the development of original contributions that address contemporary issues in accounting, such as financial reporting, auditing, corporate governance, tax, and sustainability accounting. Students are encouraged to engage with theoretical frameworks and empirical methods, integrating their findings within wider economic, social, and ethical contexts. The PhD in Accounting program at UTS is strategically aligned with the university’s broader research priorities, which focus on impactful and practical solutions for real-world challenges faced by organizations and the wider community.

Applicants are generally expected to hold a relevant master's degree with research training or an equivalent qualification, demonstrating strong academic performance and research capability. As part of their candidature, students participate in various seminars, workshops, and conferences, enhancing their academic skills and networking opportunities. The program also emphasizes publishing research findings in reputable journals and presenting at national and international conferences, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry research, or policy development. UTS provides dedicated research facilities, comprehensive support services, and a vibrant academic community to support doctoral candidates throughout their study journey. Collaborations with industry partners, government agencies, and professional bodies also enrich the research environment, enabling students to undertake applied projects with practical implications. Overall, the PhD in Accounting at UTS aims to cultivate innovative researchers equipped with advanced analytical skills and a deep understanding of accounting theories and practices, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and its application in diverse professional settings.