University of Southern Queensland

What you'll study

The PhD is a supervised research degree in which you will develop, conduct and report an original research project leading to a thesis. Research fields at the University of Southern Queensland span science, engineering, health, education, business and law, social science, agriculture and environmental studies, information technology and creative arts. Your programme will be tailored to your research topic and typically includes a literature review and research proposal, data collection and analysis, publication of journal articles or conference papers where appropriate, and the writing of the thesis.

Candidature includes formal milestones such as candidature confirmation, ethics approvals where required, progress reports and a final examination (thesis submission and independent assessment; an oral examination may be part of the assessment process). Research training and professional development opportunities are provided through workshops, seminars and coursework units designed to support higher degree by research candidates in areas such as research methods, academic writing, grant-writing and research impact. Some candidates may undertake minor coursework components or industry placements if these are integral to the research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised master’s degree with a substantial research component (a thesis) or a bachelor honours degree with a significant research element. Exceptional applicants with a demonstrated record of published research or extensive relevant professional experience may also be considered. Admission requires a clear research proposal and the availability of suitably qualified supervisors.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements appropriate to higher degree research. Applicants should contact the University’s Graduate Research School to discuss eligibility, supervisory arrangements and the documentation required for an application, such as academic transcripts, a research proposal, curriculum vitae and referee reports.

Career prospects

A PhD from USQ prepares graduates for a range of careers. Common pathways include academic and research positions at universities and research institutes, senior R&D roles in industry, policy and research roles in government and public sector agencies, specialist consultancy, and leadership roles in non-government organisations. PhD graduates also move into high-level positions in sectors such as health services, engineering and technology firms, environmental management, education leadership and business strategy, where advanced research, critical analysis and project management skills are valued.

Why study at University of Southern Queensland

USQ offers a supportive research environment with experienced supervisors across a wide variety of disciplines and active research centres and institutes. Candidates benefit from a combination of on-campus and online support — USQ has a strong record in distance education, enabling flexible study arrangements for domestic and international students. The University provides structured research training, professional development opportunities and access to research infrastructure and industry partnerships, helping HDR candidates to translate their research into impact.

Prospective students can engage with research groups aligned to their interests, explore scholarship and funding opportunities for higher degree by research candidates, and discuss potential projects with supervisors and the Graduate Research School to ensure their candidature is well planned and supported.