Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Centre for Health and Society is a multi-disciplinary centre and encourages interest in the PhD programme from people with a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, whose common interest is in health. A PhD is a substantial piece of original research, which makes a contribution to knowledge on the basis of originality of approach, and interpretation of findings.
A PhD thesis is usually about 80,000 words, and should not exceed 100,000 words. The usual length of enrolment for a PhD is three years full-time or six years part-time. Full-time PhD students are permitted to enrol for a maximum of four years and part-time students for a maximum of eight years. The first year of the PhD is a probationary year, and candidature is confirmed only if the student has made satisfactory progress in that year (see Confirmation of PhD Candidature).
PhD students carry out their research under the supervision of a supervisory panel. The research topic is usually chosen by negotiation between the student and the supervisors. In general, we encourage students to pursue their own interests provided that the project is feasible within and the Centre’s available resources.
A PhD is normally entirely by research and has no compulsory coursework component. However, students may be advised to undertake some coursework subjects. There are no formal attendance requirements in terms of hours per week but students are expected to meet regularly with their supervisors and to submit annual progress reports. The University’s regulations state that PhD students must spend at least one year full-time at the university. We encourage students to become fully involved in the life of the Centre, and we provide desk space and access to facilities for this purpose.
You are strongly advised to read the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Handbook to gain detailed information about the PhD and its associated regulations. The handbook is available at: http://www.gradstudies.unimelb.edu.au/phd/enrolcandid/phdhbk/