How to apply
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.
Ready to address global challenges with arts and education research?
The Faculty of Arts and Education is home to over 15 specialist research centres and groups. Join our passionate, collaborative community of researchers and have access to inspiring world-class facilities. Contribute new ideas that make a lasting impact across education, humanities and social sciences, communication and creative arts.
You’ll be supported and inspired across all stages of your research career by leading experts in the field who will help you achieve your research aspirations. Develop the expertise you need to make your mark in your chosen field and graduate internationally savvy, culturally aware and industry-ready.
Study a research degree to boost your career potential
Whether you want to make transformative discoveries in your discipline, develop your expertise or expand your industry network, we’ve got research degrees that will boost your career potential. At Deakin we offer two main types of research degrees.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
When you undertake your PhD with us, you’ll have access to world-class facilities, supervisors and research possibilities. This will be your opportunity to break down barriers and work alongside our collaborative community, allowing you to make an original, significant contribution to knowledge in your chosen discipline.
- 3 years full-time
- supervised research project
- written thesis.
Masters by research
We have opportunities across a range of fields including communications, politics, languages, education and criminology. With flexible start dates and multiple locations, you’ll access a specialisation pathway that supports your passion and lifestyle, making an original contribution to knowledge.
- 1–2 years full-time
- a pathway to a PhD program
- written thesis.
Leaders in research
Join the #2 university in Australia for education and educational research and the top 1% for arts and humanities research globally. Work alongside Australia's best researchers and make a valuable contribution in the field of education.
Our research strengths
When you study a PhD or postdoctoral research at the Faculty of Arts and Education you'll be supported by world-renowned researchers. Our supervisors conduct research across several discipline areas. Explore our research groups to find a supervisor.
Do I meet the entry requirements?
Depending on which research pathway you take, PhD or masters degree by research, you’ll need to ensure you meet the minimum entry requirements.
Masters by research
To be eligible to apply for a masters by research, you must demonstrate research ability. This includes:
- complying with the university’s English language requirements
- completing a research project (including a thesis), equivalent to at least 25% of your studies at level 8 or 9 of the Australian Qualifications Framework
- achieving a grade for this prior research project of 65% (Deakin grade) or equivalent.
If you haven’t completed a prior research project, you must submit additional evidence of demonstrated equivalent prior learning and research experience.
PhD
To be eligible to apply for a PhD, you must meet the following minimum entry requirements:
- evidence of English language standard for academic study in Australia
- academic achievement equivalent to H1A (level 8 or 9 of the Australian Qualifications Framework).
Our scholarships
A scholarship can help you to reach your full potential and enrich your capacity for research innovation. Our research degree and PhD scholarships will support you during your studies and can cover tuition fees, overseas student health cover or living allowances. Learn more about the amazing scholarship opportunities that you might be eligible for:
Why Deakin's Faculty of Arts and Education is a great place to study a PhD
Impact of conflict on youth in the Philippines
Under the guidance of an expert supervisor and with the financial support of a full scholarship, Septrin is excited to commence fieldwork in the Philippines.
Immersive experiences driving climate change awareness
Dr Fiona Hillary shares how a PhD in public art enabled her to create an immersive 360-degree experience encouraging audiences to consider their implication in climate change.
Shedding a light on criminology research
April's PhD is progressing how we understand, and better support, male survivors of sexual assault in Australia.
Exploring humanity through cinema
Oscar's PhD explores how cinema is able to shine a light on the fundamental essences of the human condition which may have become lost to the frantic pace of modern life.
Be part of research that’s above world standard
Our research-intensive environment delivers high-quality research into outcomes that are relevant and meaningful to our communities. Our partnerships and industry collaborations enable local industries, so your research ideas can have tangible outcomes for society, both locally and globally.
Contact us
Our team is ready to meet you – and help you find your dream degree by research. We’re keen to hear from you today.