Program Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) program offers a comprehensive research-based education, enabling students to conduct original research in psychology, develop advanced research skills, and make significant contributions to the field. The program includes a research component, coursework in research methods, and supervision by experienced faculty. Graduates pursue careers as research scientists, academic researchers, policy analysts, consultants, and clinical psychologists.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Title: Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology)
- Overview: Delve into health and psychology research and make a significant contribution to areas such as childhood development or mental health issues.
- Objectives:
- Conduct substantial, original research in a chosen area of psychology.
- Develop advanced research skills and knowledge in psychology.
- Make a significant contribution to the field of psychology through research.
Outline:
- Duration: 4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
- Structure:
- Research component: Students conduct original research in their chosen area of psychology, culminating in a thesis.
- Coursework component: Students complete a research methods unit in the first year.
- Course Schedule:
- Research methods unit: Typically taken in the first year.
- Confirmation: At five months and nine months.
- Second year progress presentation: During the second year (third or fourth year for part-time students).
Assessment:
- Methods:
- Research methods unit: Assignments/exams.
- Thesis: Submitted to the University and assessed by three examiners.
Teaching:
- Methods:
- Supervision: Students are supervised by a Principal Supervisor and may have additional supervisors.
- Research methods unit: Lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Research scientist
- Academic researcher
- Policy analyst
- Consultant
- Clinical psychologist
Deakin University
Overview:
Deakin University is a public university in Victoria, Australia. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, particularly in educational experience, and is ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide. Deakin offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as research degrees and PhDs.
Services Offered:
Deakin provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Study Options:
Flexible study options, including online learning, overseas study, and workplace learning.Support Services:
Study support, career planning, and student wellbeing services.Access Programs:
Deakin Guaranteed ATAR, Special Entry Access Scheme, Deakin Regional Access Scheme, Regional and Remote Entry Scheme, Rural Training Stream, and Indigenous Student Pathways.Fees and Scholarships:
Information on fees and costs, government HELP schemes, and scholarships.Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options.Graduation:
Support for graduates, including alumni benefits and resources.Events:
A variety of events for students and the wider community.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Deakin offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:
Flexible Study Options:
Deakin provides a variety of study options to suit individual needs and preferences.Support Services:
Students have access to a range of support services to help them succeed in their studies and personal lives.Community Engagement:
Deakin encourages students to get involved in the wider community through various initiatives and partnerships.International Campuses:
Deakin has international campuses in West Java, Indonesia and GIFT City, India, offering students a global perspective.Key Reasons to Study There:
High Student Satisfaction:
Deakin consistently ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys, particularly in educational experience.World-Class Research:
Deakin is renowned for its world-class research across various fields.Industry-Shaped Courses:
Deakin's courses are designed with industry input, ensuring graduates are work-ready.Strong Graduate Employment:
Deakin is ranked #2 in Victoria for graduate employment.Sustainable Future:
Deakin is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental education, research, and climate-ready campuses.Academic Programs:
Deakin offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties and schools, including:
Arts and Education
Business and Law
Health
Science, Engineering and Built Environment
Deakin is particularly strong in areas such as sport science, education, nursing, and graduate employment.
Other:
Deakin has a strong commitment to reconciliation and supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The university also fosters innovative partnerships with industry, government, and research leaders.
Entry Requirements:
To be considered for selection into a Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) degree, you are required to have completed either:
- a research project in a related area including a thesis which is equivalent to at least 25% of a year's full-time study at Level 8 or 9 of the Australian Qualifications Framework with achievement of a grade for the project equivalent to a Deakin grade of 70% or equivalent
- a master's degree (research) in a related area
Language Proficiency Requirements:
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognized English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 7.0 (with no band score less than 6.5) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)