• Join a community recognised for world-class research and explore research topics across areas including psychology, law, social work, human services, arts, and Aboriginal and Australian studies.
• Study at SA's No.1 university for psychology research1.
• Our research is also rated above world-class in sociology, and world-class in law and social work2.
• Benefit from our extensive national and international research links and strong record in winning national competitive grants.
• Develop the skills to independently design and execute original research, and create new knowledge with impact.
• Learn from experienced and highly qualified research supervisors, renowned academics, and visiting scholars and artists - experts who will support, mentor and guide you through your studies.
• Undertake exciting and innovative research across a range of disciplines, with a focus on finding practical solutions.
• Partner with industry, government, communities and education providers to influence decision-making and challenge current thinking.
• Over 200 external partners support our research, which is inspired by the contemporary challenges of our region and the world.
• Explore our range of fully-funded research degree scholarships to support your studies.

A PhD will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in academia, or in research with a research institution or university. Alternatively, you may choose to work in your chosen specialisation.

For students of Aboriginal Studies there are a range of employment options, including:

• ongoing research in Aboriginal Studies
• teaching and lecturing in Aboriginal Studies
• policy development
• government and non-government organisation involved in Aboriginal health, housing, education and employment

Advanced research experience may also be the gateway to the Australian Public Service or leading NGOs, where you will be qualified to work across a range of sectors.

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

• understands current research based knowledge in their field and its methodologies for creating new knowledge. They can create, critique, and appraise new and significant knowledge.
• is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence in research within and beyond a discipline or professional area
• is an effective problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of research problems
• can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher within a particular discipline or professional area and within wider but related areas
• is committed to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen
• communicates effectively as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading member of the community
• demonstrates international perspectives in research in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen