Doctor of Philosophy (Arts and Social Sciences)

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at the University of Sydney involves conducting research on an approved topic and writing a thesis of approximately 60,000-80,000 words. Assessment includes a probationary year, thesis proposal, and examination of the final thesis. Graduates develop analytical, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills, which are highly valued in various careers in industry, the public sector, education, and research organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research and write a thesis on an approved topic. It is also possible for candidates...more information

Assessment:

To satisfy requirements of the PhD degree candidates must:

• complete a probationary year and produce an extended thesis proposal or thesis chapter (10,000 to 12,000 words, or equivalent in a practice-led PhD) at the end of their first year of full-time candidature (or the part-time equivalent) and other required milestones; and,
• conduct research on an approved topic; and,
• write a thesis of approximately 60,000 to 80,000 words embodying the results of the research, or, in the case of a practice-led PhD submit a substantial piece of creative work and a research component of approximately 40,000 words; for a practice-led PhD in Sydney College of the Arts the creative component will be exhibited.
Examination is by presentation of the thesis, which is set out in the Thesis and Examination of Higher Degree by Research Policy 2015.

Careers:

While completing a PhD, students gain deep understanding of one or more subject areas, as well as developing analytical, problem solving, communication and project management skills. These skills are highly valued by prospective employers. Our PhD graduates pursue careers in industry, the public sector, education and research organisations.

Other:

PhD candidates in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences undertake research in over 40 subject areas based in the faculty’s six schools. These are the Schools of Economics; the Languages and Cultures; Art, Communication and English (including Sydney College of the Arts); Humanities; Social and Political Sciences; and the Sydney School of Education and Social Work. Research may also be undertaken in association with the University of Sydney’s humanities and social sciences research centres or groups.