Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the Australian National University (ANU) is a highly esteemed research degree designed for individuals who seek to contribute original knowledge to their chosen field of study. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to engage in advanced scholarly inquiry under the supervision of leading experts and to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that are essential for an academic or professional career. The ANU's PhD program is characterized by its rigorous academic standards, a vibrant research community, and access to world-class facilities and resources. Students are encouraged to pursue innovative and impactful research projects that address complex issues, societal challenges, and emerging technological developments.

The PhD program typically requires a minimum of three years of full-time study, during which students will formulate a research proposal, conduct empirical or theoretical research, and produce a substantial thesis that makes a significant contribution to their discipline. The program supports various research areas across the university's faculties, including the arts and social sciences, business and economics, engineering and computer science, environment and sustainability, health and medicine, and science. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic achievement, research aptitude, and the ability to work independently while also contributing to academic discussions and collaborative projects.

Throughout their candidature, doctoral students receive personalized supervision and mentorship from experienced academics, participate in seminars and workshops, and have opportunities to present their research at national and international conferences. ANU fosters a nurturing environment for multidisciplinary engagement and innovation, encouraging students to develop their scholarly identity and professional networks. Upon successful completion, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, industry, and consultancy roles. The ANU’s PhD program is committed to advancing knowledge, fostering critical inquiry, and contributing to society through impactful research and scholarly excellence.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at the Australian National University is designed to foster advanced research skills and scholarly excellence across a diverse range of disciplines. This comprehensive postgraduate degree offers students the opportunity to undertake original research that contributes significantly to their chosen field. Throughout the duration of the program, candidates engage in rigorous investigation, critical analysis, and intellectual inquiry under the guidance of leading experts and faculty members.

The PhD program at ANU emphasizes a combination of independent research and academic mentorship, encouraging students to develop innovative approaches and deepen their understanding of complex issues. Candidates are expected to produce a substantial thesis that demonstrates their capacity to conduct original research, synthesize existing knowledge, and present their findings coherently. The program typically spans three to four years of full-time study, although flexible arrangements may be available to accommodate part-time students and other individual needs.

Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, specialized research centers, and a vibrant academic community characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration. The university supports students through workshops, seminars, and professional development activities aimed at honing their research, communication, and publication skills. Additionally, ANU offers a supportive environment that fosters diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence.

The program's curriculum centers on cultivating a high level of academic rigor, methodological expertise, and theoretical knowledge relevant to each discipline. Students are encouraged to contribute to their scholarly community by presenting at conferences, publishing articles, and engaging in collaborative projects. Upon successful completion, graduates are equipped with the skills needed for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and industry. The PhD program at ANU thus prepares students to become leaders in their respective fields, advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges through innovative research.

You are most likely to gain admission to a Doctor of Philosophy program if you hold a Masters of Philosophy or a Bachelor degree with First Class Honours. You may also be granted admission if you can demonstrate that you have a background equivalent to these qualifications.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at the Australian National University offers a range of financing options to support enrolled students throughout their research candidature. As a leading research university, ANU provides competitive scholarships, grants, and financial aid tailored to both domestic and international students. Domestic students may have access to government-funded initiatives such as the Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships, which cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance stipend. International students, on the other hand, can apply for a variety of university-sponsored scholarships that can significantly offset tuition costs, including the ANU PhD Scholarships and other dedicated international research awards. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and alignment with the university’s strategic priorities. In addition to scholarships, students can explore external funding options, including research grants, industry sponsorships, and government grants from bodies such as the Australian Research Council (ARC). ANU also offers part-time employment opportunities on campus to help students supplement their income while pursuing their research. International students should also consider additional costs such as health insurance, accommodation, and living expenses, which can be partially managed through the university’s advice and support services. The university provides detailed guidance and support through its Graduate Research School to assist students in identifying suitable funding sources, preparing scholarship applications, and understanding the financial commitments involved in undertaking a PhD at ANU. This comprehensive support aims to reduce financial barriers, allowing students to focus entirely on their research and academic development. Overall, funding a PhD at ANU involves a combination of university scholarships, government support, external funding, and personal or family resources, with various strategies available to ensure financial stability throughout the doctoral journey.

Domestic research students are not required to pay tuition fees as they are enrolled under the Research Training Scheme. The RTS provides funding for the research program up to a maximum of 2 years (full-time) for a Masters program, and up to 4 years for a PhD program. For further information see students.anu.edu.au/fees/domestic/research.php

International students

Indicative fees for international students are:

1. International student fees (ISF)
2. Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)
3. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)