Doctor of Philosophy

The Australian National University provides research students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support. When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program. 

You can undertake a program of research at ANU through a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), or a Professional Doctorate (by research). The major component of a research program is a substantial written work known as a thesis, which investigates a particular subject or issue. As a research student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of an academic supervisor or a supervisory panel of academic staff.

What does a Doctor of Philosophy at ANU involve?

The Doctor of Philosophy award will take you between three and four years of full-time research to complete (you can also complete a part-time equivalent). This award is conducted in English and is made principally on the basis of a research thesis comprising of original written work, most typically up to 100,000 words. Your thesis will be independently assessed by no fewer than two external expert examiners of international standing. Depending on your discipline an alternative to a written thesis may be submitted and assessed.

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.

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)