What you can study

Higher degrees by research are the highest tertiary qualification in Australia, Australian Qualifications Framework Levels 9 and 10, but they do vary in duration, level of research and eligibility requirements.

There are three HDR course types offered at Flinders University, varying in entry criteria, duration and levels of research.

While specialist supervisors will support and mentor you as you undertake your research project, you will need to carefully choose the degree that suits you best.

Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Flinders University can take between one and four years full-time, depending on the chosen degree. The expected duration for a ‘regular’ PhD is three years full-time equivalent. In most cases, you will undertake a supervised research project. In all cases, you will have expert supervision and submit a thesis for examination. The thesis must make a significant original contribution to knowledge in the particular field of research, such as, the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories, or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.

PhD - all disciplines

More information about:

College of Business, Government and Law. PhD research areas:
College of Education, Psychology and Social Work
- PhD (Clinical Psychology)
College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. PhD research areas:

Professional Doctorate

A Professional Doctorate comprises at least two-thirds research and up to one-third coursework and takes three years of full-time study. The degree enables you to make a significant original, sustained contribution to knowledge in professional policy, management and practice through a major research thesis.

Doctor of Education

Masters by Research

Masters by research degrees are up to two years of full-time study. You undertake a supervised research project, culminating in the submission of a thesis for examination. The thesis must make a significant contribution to knowledge in the particular field of research.