Applications for admission to a Higher Degree by Research can be made at any time.
Once you have completed all the requirements for admission, please forward your application to School of Graduate Research Office. Applications will be considered at the next available meeting. There will be four commencement dates annually (1 February, 1 May, 1 August and 1 November), and if you are accepted into an award you will be advised of possible start dates.
How to apply
Step 1: Select a course
The University of Divinity offers three higher degrees by research:
- Master of Philosophy
Apply an advanced body of knowledge in a range of contexts. This course provides a pathway for possible further learning.
Duration1.5 years full-time,
Up to 4 years part-timeModesClassroom, Mixed, OnlineColleges & SchoolsAvailable at 12 Colleges and Schools - Doctor of Philosophy
Apply a substantial body of knowledge to research, investigate and develop new knowledge in one or more areas of investigation, scholarship or professional practice.
Duration3 years full-time,
Up to 8 years part-timeModesClassroom, Mixed, OnlineColleges & SchoolsAvailable at 12 Colleges and Schools - Doctor of Professional Practice
Designed for experienced practitioners to develop advanced knowledge and skills relevant to their professional context.
Duration3 years full-time,
Up to 8 years part-timeModesClassroom, Mixed, OnlineColleges & SchoolsAvailable at 1 College/School
Step 2: Check admission criteria
The requirements for admission to each course of study are stated in the Regulation and associated Determination which govern that award. Check the relevant course page to ensure that you meet the requirements for your chosen course.
Additional information
- Domestic applicants with overseas qualifications
Domestic applicants with overseas qualifications are eligible to apply if their prior studies were taken at a Recognised Institution of the University. - English language proficiency requirements
English Language Proficiency Requirements detailed in the Admissions Policy (section 6) apply to all applicants for coursework and higher degree by research awards at the University, and to applicants for single units.
Step 3: Select a College
We are a collegiate University. This means each student studies at the University through one of its Colleges. The College is your primary learning community and will provide you with course advice and support services throughout your studies. Our Colleges cover a wide range of Christian traditions and places. The choice of a College might depend on your own faith tradition, where you live, or which course you want to study; each College offers a different selection of the University’s courses.
Step 4: Attend an interview
It is a requirement that all students attend an admissions interview with an academic advisor at a College. This will be a Research Coordinator in the case of higher degree by research applicants. The interview may be conducted by telephone or email or similar means. The purpose of the interview is to help you choose the right course, to ensure you meet the admission requirements, and to plan a program of study appropriate to your course and your needs.
Step 5: Prepare a research proposal
A proposal is the first stage in the research process and needs to be submitted with your application form.
Step 6: Complete and submit form(s)
Download and complete the relevant admission form if you are new to the University or are applying for admission into a new course. Complete the form, following the instructions carefully.
You will need to submit the completed form(s), together with supporting documentation (either originals or certified copies) to the Registrar of the School of Graduate Research before the relevant closing date.
- Admission Form for Domestic Higher Degree by Research Students
- Admission Form for Overseas Higher Degree by Research Student
- Proposed HDR Supervisor Form (required by all applicants for research degrees)
Depending on your chosen course of study, you may also need to complete an additional form to accompany your application form admission. Check with the Registrar of the School of Graduate Research for more information about the forms you need to complete.
- Confidential Academic Referee Report (required by all new applicants for research degrees)
- Mixed Payment Form
- Overseas Student Sponsor Statement
What happens next?
Acceptance of offer
If your application is accepted, you will receive an admission letter from the University with the information you need to get started.
Payment of fees
For full details on fees and how to pay, please see the Fees page.
Orientation
Successful applicants commence their candidature on the first day of the semester in which they are first enrolled. Successful overseas applicants must be in Australia and able to attend the orientation day for HDR candidates which is usually held one week prior to the first day of semester.
Help and assistance
HDR students are admitted through one of the University’s Colleges. Each College has a Research Coordinator whose role is to provide applicants with advice, including guidance on eligibility, and to assist in the location of an appropriate supervisor. Applicants for an HDR should contact a Research Coordinator at one of the University’s Colleges in the first instance to discuss enrolment and the application process.