Candidature

Duration

Normal candidature is 3 years full-time or from 3 to 10 years part-time.

Minimum candidature:

• Full time 2 years
• Part time 3 years

Maximum candidature period:

• Full time 5 years
• Part time 10 years

Coursework

Requirements

Candidates will normally be required to complete 120 credit points of coursework, before proceeding to the thesis. Please refer to the section on Enrolment on the Admission to Candidature page for information on how to enrol in subjects.

Exemption policy

In general, exemptions for coursework previously completed will not be given.

Clinical electives

Clinical evaluation and public health practice electives are offered to candidates as part of the coursework component. These will be supervised through the School of enrolment on an individual basis.

Suspension

A Professional Doctorate student who wishes to suspend their candidature will need to complete a Faculty Professional Doctorate Suspension form (see back of this publication) and submit it to their Professional Doctorate Coordinator. An electronic copy is available on the web or from Professional Doctorate Coordinators.

Employment

Many candidates enrol in professional doctorates part-time so that they can combine their studies with their work and family commitments. This can be an advantage to candidates who wish to pursue a thesis project that complements their work environment. In general, part-time candidates should not attempt to maintain full-time employment during their candidature. Some Schools require candidates to spend a minimum of one day per week on campus.

Fees

The Commonwealth Government has introduced a Research Training Scheme (RTS), which replaces the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) Exemptions Scheme. Under the RTS, Commonwealth funding is provided to the University for an agreed number of RTS places for a maximum of four years full-time equivalent study for students undertaking Doctorate by research degrees. For RTS students who have gone beyond the maximum time allowable under the RTS, a fee will be levied equivalent to the HECS rate. This fee may be waived at the Faculty's discretion. It should also be noted that the RTS does not apply to overseas students.

International students

International students may enrol in professional doctorates on a full-time basis. Fees are published in the University International Prospectus and updated yearly. Applicants should discuss their planned enrolment with an academic staff advisor from the School in which they wish to enrol prior to applying.

All applications from international students should be made through the International Programs Office. The contact details can be found on the University's Contacts pags.

You should visit the International Students page, available through the 'Quick Links' menu.