Eligibility
Am I eligible?
You can choose to undertake a research degree at the University of Newcastle after completing an Australian honours degree or equivalent prior research learning.
For international students, a 4-year Bachelor degree including a research training component attained at a high standard, is commonly considered equivalent to an Australian Honours degree. Additional postgraduate research training such as that provided by a Masters degree may also be considered.
The University assesses all applications on a case-by-case basis; you should contact international-admissions@newcastle.edu.au if you have any questions concerning your eligibility.
There are two important aims for research degrees:
- Complete a carefully supervised research program that represents a significant contribution to a particular field of study
- Receive training in research skills specific to your field of study
We strongly recommend that you contact potential supervisors from the Faculty in which you are interested in undertaking research to discuss project options and suitable topics.
The research degree commitment
Undertaking a research degree is a significant commitment. Whether you choose to do a doctoral degree or a research masters, you will be embarking on an extended piece of work that will take a number of years to complete.
Your research degree is likely to involve extended hours identifying and analysing large numbers of existing sources in order to synthesise current opinion and information and subsequently develop new data and ideas. With the assistance of your supervisor, you will distil this into a well-structured and clearly written research thesis.
As a research degree student, you must be able to juggle the constant need to push forward your research program with the competing and valid demands of family, friends, hobbies and relaxation. Excellent time management skills are vital.
You will be assisted throughout this process by the careful oversight of your supervisors, other students and academics in your field, and the wider research community. There will be significant opportunities to interact with other researchers and professionals established in your field of interest.
Choosing the right research degree
We offer three research degree options at the University of Newcastle. Carefully consider which degree will work best for you.
Doctor of Philosophy
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is an ungraded degree awarded for research that demonstrates that the candidate has the capacity to conduct research independently with a high level of originality and quality.
A PhD should uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.
Entry Requirements
The entry is, in most cases, a relevant Bachelor degree with Honours Class 1 or 2/1 or equivalent qualification, or a coursework Master degree including a minor thesis completed at an appropriate level or any other degree approved for this purpose by the Pro Vice-Chancellor (or nominee).
For further information on eligibility requirements please visit the relevant schedule. It is strongly recommended that all applicants contact the faculty in which they wish to undertake research to discuss topics.
Master by Research
The degree of Master of Philosophy (M Phil) is an ungraded degree awarded for research that demonstrates a thorough understanding of the relevant techniques in the field demonstrated both by application and a thorough review of the literature.
Candidates of a research masters are required to demonstrate:
- Competence in a chosen field through judicious selection and application of methods to yield fruitful results.
- A capacity to evaluate results critically and present well written work.
Entry Requirements
The entry is, in most cases, a relevant Bachelor degree with Honours Class 1 or 2/1 or equivalent qualification or any other degree approved for this purpose by the Pro Vice-Chancellor (or nominee).
For further information on eligibility requirements please visit the relevant schedule. It is strongly recommended that all applicants contact the faculty in which they wish to undertake research to discuss topics.
Professional Doctorate
A Professional Doctorate degree is a postgraduate coursework program that combines postgraduate courses with a research component. The Office of Graduate Studies manages the thesis examination process.
The University of Newcastle currently offers three professional doctorates:
