PhDs
Our PhD programs
- 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 & Engineering Faculty)
QUT's well-established links with industry provide the practical support needed for my research into strategies for designing buildings with improved energy performance. [...] The skills that I am developing in the process are providing invaluable to my professional development, and have greatly increased my career options.Bianca Toth,
PhD candidate, School of Design
What is a PhD?
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.
At QUT, students normally:
- complete a literature review
- develop and refine a research problem
- present a research theory at a confirmation seminar
- complete a program of research which tests the theory
- complete a final thesis or dissertation of findings.
What can I research?
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 areas.
Who should consider a PhD?
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.
To qualify for entry to a PhD, you usually need to have:
- successfully completed a masters by research
- begun a masters by research, and progressed to the PhD program after 12 months
- or graduated from an honours degree with a First Class or 2A Honours.
Before considering a PhD you should read the rules and regulations regarding PhDs.
Read the PhD course regulations

How long will a PhD take?
A PhD usually takes a minimum of:
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time.
Example timeline of a PhD (PDF file, 21.6 KB)
How much will it cost?
There are no fees for PhDs for Australian citizens and permanent residents.
You may be eligible for a scholarship to help cover your costs while you're studying.
Joint PhD
You may be able to complete a joint PhD, studying a QUT and another leading university overseas. You must study at least one year at each institution. When you complete your degree, you'll receive recognition from both universities.
If you're interested in the joint PhD option, discuss it with your potential supervisor, and read the PhD regulations for more information.
Joint PhD program for King Saud University students
Higher degree research candidates policies
Contact the Research Students Centre
Industry Doctoral Training Centre
Our Industry Doctoral Training Centre aims to address the skills shortage in mathematical sciences by providing a PhD program in collaboration with major business and industry organisations.
Contacts
Research Admissions
- Phone: 3138 4475
- Int. phone: +61 7 3138 4475
- Fax: 3138 1304
- Email: research.enquiries@qut.edu.au
-
Level 4, 88 Musk Avenue
Kelvin Grove QLD 4059
- Postal address:
Research Students Centre
GPO Box 2434
Brisbane, QLD, 4000
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