CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY · AUSTRALIA
Higher Degree by Research (HDR)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master by Research (MRes)Degree Types
- Up to AU$35,489 (2026 rate) tax-free stipend per annum for full-time studentsScholarship Stipend
- Tuition fee waiver often included with scholarshipsScholarship Benefit
- On-campus and Online study options availableStudy Mode
- Strong focus on research excellence with global impactResearch Focus
Charles Darwin University (CDU) offers Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) including Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Research (MRes) programs across all its faculties and the Menzies School of Health Research. These programs are designed for emerging scholars to conduct independent research and contribute to globally significant issues. CDU is a research-intensive university committed to providing high-quality research training.
Curriculum
HDR programs involve planning and executing an original research project under the guidance of a supervisory panel. The programs culminate in a substantial body of work, typically a thesis.
- PhD (Full-time)
- Additional training in research integrity, methods, communication, personal, and career development
- Research proposal and oral presentation
- Mid-candidature oral presentation
- End-of-candidature oral presentation
- Thesis (60,000-100,000 words) or creative output with exegesis (30,000-50,000 words)
- Master by Research (MRes) (Full-time)
- Additional training in research integrity, methods, communication, personal, and career development
- Research proposal and oral presentation
- End-of-candidature oral presentation
- Thesis (30,000-50,000 words) or creative output with exegesis (15,000-25,000 words)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD program?
- For PhD, applicants need a Bachelor Honours degree with first-class or second-class honours division A, or a Master's qualification with a substantial research component. Relevant research experience, such as publications, may also be considered.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- International candidates typically incur tuition fees, but may be eligible for a fee waiver if awarded a scholarship based on academic merit.
- Are there scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, CDU offers Research Scholarships which can include a tax-free stipend (up to AU$35,489 in 2026 for full-time students), a tuition fee waiver, and a relocation allowance. These are awarded competitively each year.
- How do I find a supervisor and project for my research?
- You must identify a suitable research project and obtain written confirmation from a CDU supervisor willing to supervise your proposed project before submitting your application.
- What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
- The program typically involves planning and executing an original research project, culminating in a thesis of 60,000-100,000 words or a creative output with an exegesis of 30,000-50,000 words.
Entry requirements
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Bachelor Honours degree with first-class or second-class honours division A, OR a Masters qualification with a substantial research component. Research experience (publications, creative outputs) may be considered.
Master by Research (MRes)Bachelor Honours degree with first-class or second-class honours, OR a Masters by Coursework or Extended Masters with a substantial research component. Research experience (publications, creative outputs) may be considered.
International students may have specific English language requirements. Contact CDU for details.
Fees
Tuition (international)International candidates typically incur fees, but may receive a fee waiver or scholarship based on academic merit.
Tuition (home)Domestic candidates usually incur no fees if the degree is completed within the allocated time.
LivingStipends can cover living allowances (up to AU$35,489 in 2026 for full-time students).
Fee structures and scholarship benefits are subject to change and are awarded on a competitive basis.
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the academic requirements: a Bachelor Honours degree with first-class or second-class honours division A, or a Masters qualification with a substantial research component for PhD. For MRes, a Bachelor Honours degree with first or second-class honours, or a Masters by Coursework/Extended Masters with a substantial research component.
2. Identify a Project and SupervisorFind a suitable research project and potential supervisor from the list of projects or supervisor profiles on the CDU website. You must obtain written confirmation from a CDU supervisor willing to supervise your proposed project before applying.
3. Develop Research Project OutlinePrepare a detailed research outline (1500-1700 words or 3-4 pages) covering the project title, field, proposed supervisor, description, ethical considerations, resource needs, and intellectual property. A template is available on the CDU website.
4. Consider Financial SupportExplore scholarship opportunities for living expenses (stipend) and tuition fee waivers. International students may be eligible for competitive scholarships. Contact the Scholarships team or visit the CDU Scholarship Finder.
5. Collate DocumentationGather certified copies of academic transcripts and award certificates, proof of citizenship, a detailed CV/Resume with publications, two referee reports (using the provided form), supervisor's written confirmation, and any other relevant supporting documents.
6. Submit ApplicationApply online via the CDU application portal, attaching all required documents. For any queries, contact the Higher Degree by Research Team.
Scholarships
CDU Research ScholarshipsUp to AU$35,489 (2026 rate) per annum tax-free stipend for full-time students. Often includes a tuition fee waiver (valued between $33,940 and $36,730 per annum in 2026) and relocation allowance.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD program?
+
For PhD, applicants need a Bachelor Honours degree with first-class or second-class honours division A, or a Master's qualification with a substantial research component. Relevant research experience, such as publications, may also be considered.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
International candidates typically incur tuition fees, but may be eligible for a fee waiver if awarded a scholarship based on academic merit.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, CDU offers Research Scholarships which can include a tax-free stipend (up to AU$35,489 in 2026 for full-time students), a tuition fee waiver, and a relocation allowance. These are awarded competitively each year.
How do I find a supervisor and project for my research?
+
You must identify a suitable research project and obtain written confirmation from a CDU supervisor willing to supervise your proposed project before submitting your application.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
+
The program typically involves planning and executing an original research project, culminating in a thesis of 60,000-100,000 words or a creative output with an exegesis of 30,000-50,000 words.