Doctor of Philosophy

Candidates undertake a substantial piece of original research while under academic supervision. The work submitted must satisfy the examiners that it contributes to knowledge and demonstrates authority in the candidate's field of investigation. In scope, the thesis differs from a research Master thesis chiefly by its deeper and more comprehensive treatment of its subject.

Course structure

Students work throughout their candidature under the supervision of one or more staff members on a research topic that is subsequently reported in the form of a thesis of approximately 80,000 words. The thesis should not exceed 100,000 words (or equivalent).  The degree is awarded on the basis of examination of the thesis.  The School of Physiotherapy and its affiliate Centres can offer supervision in a range of research areas.  Close collaboration with a number of clinical schools is a feature of the School’s research profile. Normally this degree is taken over a period of 3 years full time or 6 years part time.

For further details of the School’s areas of research interest and activity see our research website.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an appropriate qualification in medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, psychology, podiatry, a relevant field of science or related health science.  Applicants who have first-class honours or who have completed a Master degree may apply directly for a PhD.  Other applicants (those with second class honours or equivalent, or an average of at least 70%) will normally be enrolled in a Master by Research degree, and may apply to transfer to the PhD program if acceptable academic progress is made. Both local and international applicants will need to meet English language requirements.

Applications

Research applications may be made at any time. Please submit your application form together with required documentation, and include a brief description (50 to 100 words) of your general research interests / list any specific research projects from our website which are of particular interest to you.

School of Graduate Studies

The School of Graduate Studies has complete information about candidature, administrative and financial matters relating to the Doctor of Philosophy.