A PhD challenges you to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge in your field by developing new ideas, or new ways of approaching existing problems. Through the course of your PhD, you will help develop new theories, methodologies and models that may shape the future of your profession or discipline.

Depending on the faculty you study in, you can either design your own topic for research, or choose from suggested student topics. If you are designing your own topic, we strongly suggest aligning the topic with one of our research priorities.

A PhD is ideal if you:

• want to make a significant original contribution to your field
• plan to pursue a career in industry, government or academia
• are self-motivated and able to commit to a large-scale project over several years.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Creative Industries Faculty)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Faculty of Education)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Faculty of Health)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Faculty of Law)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by QUT Business School)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Science and Engineering Faculty)

You must have either:

• a completed recognised relevant honours degree or equivalent
• a completed recognised masters degree or professional doctorate (by research or coursework)

Masters and professional doctorate degrees by coursework must have a significant research component, normally not less than 25%. Holders of masters and professional doctorate by coursework must:

• have a minimum grade point average (GPA) score of 5.0 on QUT's 7 point scale; and
• present evidence of research experience and potential for approval

Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy depends on an applicant’s demonstrated research aptitude and the availability of supervision, infrastructure and resources needed for the proposed research project.

Once you've started your PhD, you'll need to complete your Stage 2 milestone to be fully admitted to your course. You'll usually complete this milestone within the first three months of study.