At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3 years full-timeDuration
- Up to 8 years part-timeFlexible Study
- CRICOS Code: 037861EOverseas Student Approved
- AQF Level 10Accredited Qualification
- FEE-HELP eligibleFinancial Support
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at Australian Lutheran College (ALC), accredited through the University of Divinity, is a higher degree by research designed for individuals seeking to conduct in-depth investigation and develop new knowledge in divinity or related disciplines. This program aims to cultivate experts who can critically analyze existing knowledge, undertake systematic research, and make original contributions to their field. Graduates will possess advanced cognitive, technical, and creative skills, enabling them to pursue independent research and communicate complex findings to both academic peers and the wider community. The program emphasizes the development of substantial knowledge at the frontier of a chosen field, alongside expertise in research principles and methods. It prepares candidates to plan and execute original research programs, with a strong understanding of ethical considerations inherent in scholarly investigation. The PhD can be pursued full-time over three years or part-time for up to eight years, and is open to both domestic and international students.
Curriculum
The Doctor of Philosophy program involves rigorous research and scholarly activities culminating in a substantial thesis. Throughout your candidature, you will engage in regular reporting, seminar attendance, and a major research project.
- Throughout Candidature
- Annual Report Submission
- Confirmation of Candidature
- Human Research Ethics Committee Requirements (if applicable)
- Research Seminar Attendance and Participation (8 hours annually)
- University Research Conference or Approved Conference Attendance (annually)
- Presentation of Seminar or Conference Paper (at least one, 20+ minutes)
- Preparation and Submission of Thesis (max 100,000 words)
Careers
Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy program are equipped with advanced research skills and a substantial body of knowledge that prepares them for diverse careers in academia, research, and leadership roles within religious and non-profit organizations. The ability to generate original knowledge and communicate complex ideas is highly valued across various sectors.
- Academic Researcher
- University Lecturer
- Theologian
- Church Leader
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant
- Author/Writer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy program?
- You must satisfy the School of Graduate Research (SGR) Committee of your eligibility. This includes demonstrating readiness for doctoral research with a 75% average in previous studies, or equivalent examiner reports. If English is not your first language, you must meet the University of Divinity's English language proficiency requirements.
- How much does the Doctor of Philosophy program cost for international students?
- International students should enquire directly with Australian Lutheran College (ALC) or the University of Divinity for specific tuition fees. Information regarding living costs is not provided.
- What is the duration of the Doctor of Philosophy program?
- The Doctor of Philosophy program can be pursued full-time over three years. Part-time study is also available and can extend up to eight years.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- The primary language of instruction and research for this program is English. International students whose first language is not English must meet specific English language proficiency requirements.
- How do I apply for the Doctor of Philosophy program?
- You should review entry requirements, find a potential supervisor at ALC, prepare supporting documents including an academic transcript and a research essay or thesis, and then submit your application through the ALC website.
- Are there any scholarships available for Doctor of Philosophy students?
- Australian Lutheran College offers several fee scholarships, such as the Fritzsche New Student Fee Scholarship, and grants for fieldwork, professional placements, low income equity, and childcare assistance. Specific details and application procedures are available via scholarship and grant brochures.
Entry requirements
Masters by Research75% average, or equivalent examiner reports demonstrating readiness for doctoral research.
Masters by Coursework75% average.
Graduate Diploma75% average.
Four-year undergraduate degree with Honours75% average.
Research Essay or ThesisA research essay or thesis of at least 12,000 words, graded at or above 75%, completed either within one of the above awards or as part of another program of study.
Applicants must satisfy the School of Graduate Research (SGR) Committee of their eligibility. Where the first language is not English, candidates must meet the English language proficiency requirements as outlined in the University of Divinity's Admissions Policy. ALC also has a policy for credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please enquire directly with ALC or the University of Divinity for specific international tuition fees. This course is registered for FEE-HELP for eligible domestic students.
Tuition (home)Please enquire directly with ALC or the University of Divinity for specific domestic tuition fees. This course is registered for FEE-HELP.
Living—
Information regarding specific tuition fees for both international and domestic students should be obtained directly from Australian Lutheran College. FEE-HELP is available for eligible domestic students.
How to apply
1. Review Entry RequirementsCarefully check the academic eligibility criteria, including previous degree qualifications and the required standard for your research essay or thesis. Also, review the English language proficiency requirements if English is not your first language, as specified in the University of Divinity's Admissions Policy.
2. Find a SupervisorIt is highly recommended to identify a potential supervisor at ALC whose research interests align with yours. You can browse the researchers' profiles on the ALC website.
3. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all necessary academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), your research essay/thesis, and any other documents required for admission. Ensure your research essay/thesis meets the minimum 12,000-word and 75% grade requirement.
4. Submit Your ApplicationComplete the application form for admission. Ensure all sections are filled accurately and all required documents are attached. You can apply directly through the ALC website.
5. Await SGR Committee ReviewYour application will be assessed by the School of Graduate Research (SGR) Committee to ensure you meet all admission criteria.
6. Consider Credit Transfer/RPL (if applicable)If you have prior learning or qualifications that may be eligible for credit, refer to the University of Divinity's Credit Policy and submit relevant documentation with your application.
Scholarships
Fritzsche New Student Fee ScholarshipVaries (reimbursement of fees)
Continuing Student Fee ScholarshipVaries (reimbursement of fees)
Lutheran Church or Agency Employee Fee ScholarshipVaries (reimbursement of fees)
Overload Fee ScholarshipVaries (reimbursement of fees)
Fieldwork Support GrantVaries
Professional Placement GrantVaries
Low Income Equity Grant A & BVaries
Childcare Assistance GrantVaries
Accreditation
The Doctor of Philosophy is an accredited AQF level 10 course of the University of Divinity (UD).
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy program?
+
You must satisfy the School of Graduate Research (SGR) Committee of your eligibility. This includes demonstrating readiness for doctoral research with a 75% average in previous studies, or equivalent examiner reports. If English is not your first language, you must meet the University of Divinity's English language proficiency requirements.
How much does the Doctor of Philosophy program cost for international students?
+
International students should enquire directly with Australian Lutheran College (ALC) or the University of Divinity for specific tuition fees. Information regarding living costs is not provided.
What is the duration of the Doctor of Philosophy program?
+
The Doctor of Philosophy program can be pursued full-time over three years. Part-time study is also available and can extend up to eight years.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
The primary language of instruction and research for this program is English. International students whose first language is not English must meet specific English language proficiency requirements.
How do I apply for the Doctor of Philosophy program?
+
You should review entry requirements, find a potential supervisor at ALC, prepare supporting documents including an academic transcript and a research essay or thesis, and then submit your application through the ALC website.
Are there any scholarships available for Doctor of Philosophy students?
+
Australian Lutheran College offers several fee scholarships, such as the Fritzsche New Student Fee Scholarship, and grants for fieldwork, professional placements, low income equity, and childcare assistance. Specific details and application procedures are available via scholarship and grant brochures.