#13 worldwide for education and educational research
#1 in Australia for research in higher education
#5 university in Australia for research quality
Why choose Deakin
This is a supervised research program taken by thesis or folio. The research of each candidate is conducted under the supervision of a full-time member of the academic staff. Candidates are required to participate in an oral colloquium about one third of the way through candidature in which the proposed research is defended and are required to then ultimately submit a thesis embodying the results of their research.
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World-leading supervisors
Research alongside internationally recognised experts shaping the future of education at the nation's leading university for higher education research.
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Leading education research communities
Connect with researchers advancing educational impact, assessment and digital learning through Deakin’s Centre for Research for Educational Impact and the Deakin Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning.
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Strengthen your research direction
Defend your proposed research at an oral colloquium early in your candidature, gaining feedback to strengthen your research before progressing your thesis.
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Researcher Development Academy
Tailored development opportunities throughout your research degree help you strengthen your research practice, grow your networks and build the skills to advance your career while completing your PhD.
Connected to industry
Engaging with industry during your PhD or masters by research ensures your research is relevant, future‑focused and positioned to create impact. Develop the skills your future employers need with industry-embedded projects, co‑supervision arrangements, access to partner facilities and opportunities to translate research into practice.
Related courses
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
Course structure
To complete the Doctor of Philosophy, you must pass 24 credit points.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
What to expect while studying
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
You can apply for a research degree without a scholarship at any time, with commencement not limited to Deakin’s trimester dates.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Demonstrate systematic and critical understanding in one or more specialist fields or discipline areas by planning and generating a substantial and original contribution that advances scholarship or professional practice. |
| Effectively disseminate research outcomes to a variety of audiences using highly developed communication skills and work productively within a team of experts in the field. Synthesise, apply and analyse existing and new knowledge in one or more discipline areas to develop new concepts or interpretations through engagement in ethical research, critical reflection, continuous evaluation and demonstration of research skills. |
| Demonstrate autonomy, authoritative judgement, adaptability, leadership, initiative, resilience and responsibility as an expert and leading practitioner or scholar. |
Approved by Faculty Board July 2016
- Award granted
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Year
2027 course information
- Deakin code
- E900
- Level
- Higher Degree Research
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 10
Fees
Please refer to Research Scholarships and Fees for more information.
Scholarships
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you'll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Get all the information you need to successfully apply for a Deakin research degree or PhD, including key dates, entry requirements, supporting documents and finding a research supervisor. We’re here to support you through the process.