Doctor of Philosophy - Faculty of Education

CSU’s Doctor of Philosophy through the Faculty of Education can be studied in fields of education, exercise science, human movement or information studies. Students will develop advanced research skills through independent research that contributes to the knowledge base of their discipline.

Why study this course?

CSU’s Doctor of Philosophy consists entirely of completing an individual research program under the supervision of a team (usually two) of appropriately qualified academics with expertise in the candidate’s chosen discipline. Doctoral studies can be pursued through full-time or part-time on campus or by distance education. All distance education students are expected to maintain contact with their supervision team using appropriate technologies

Most candidates are enrolled in Doctor of Philosophy (Education) by Research. This is the traditional form of the program for those candidates who are neophyte researchers. Candidates who are experienced researchers with a significant refereed publication record of doctoral standard may be eligible for the Doctor of Philosophy (Education) by Publication. See Admission Requirements for further information.

Candidates are required to present a seminar on their proposed research, usually within the first year of enrolment (in the first two years for part-time candidates) to confirm their candidature. Following successful confirmation, the candidate will conduct the proposed research and submit the results of their investigation in the form of a thesis that will not exceed 100,000 words. Candidates may also be required to present their work to the academic staff of the Faculty during their candidature.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy program will be well equipped to apply for research and/or academic positions. Knowledge, skills and techniques gained will stand graduates in good stead for other high-level workplace roles and responsibilities.

Residential Schools

The Faculty holds a three-day forum each year for all Doctor of Philosophy candidates and their supervisors. While attendance is not compulsory, the forum provides candidates with the opportunity to meet other candidates and members of the Faculty, and participate in workshops on relevant topics. All candidates attending are required to give a short presentation on their research.

Scholarships

There are a limited number of fee-waiver scholarships for part-time, distance education students. These scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis according to academic track records / potential, capacity to devote the time required to make satisfactory progress, the Faculty's ability to provide supervision by researchers actively researching in the student's area of research interest and closeness of fit with Faculty research concentrations. Applications are made directly to the Faculty, supplying the following documentation.

Further information

More information on the Doctor of Philosophy including scholarships for full-time study can be found here.

Initial contact with the Sub-Dean Graduate Studies within the Faculty of Education is highly advisable. Please phone info.csu on 1800 334 733 or make an online enquiry for the contact details of the appropriate person.

CRICOS code

015501M

Graduation requirements

Over the period of their candidature, candidates must have completed a thesis or portfolio to the satisfaction of the Research Advisory Committee.

Academic expectations

For each 8 point subject at CSU, students should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Students will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

Where applicable, students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs involved in workplace learning experiences, or attending residential schools (distance education students).

Expectations relating to academic, workplace learning, time and cost requirements for specific subjects are provided in the subject abstracts and in course materials.