Doctor of Philosophy (Science)

Further information

To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Science), you must have completed the equivalent of one of the following in a subject area related to your proposed research area:

• bachelor’s degree with first class honours or,

• master’s degree by research such as the University of Sydney Master of Philosophy (Science) or,

• master’s degree by coursework in a relevant subject area with an independent research component such as a thesis, dissertation or research project with a minimum overall credit average or,

• University of Sydney Graduate Diploma of Science with a final mark of 80.

These criteria constitute the minimum requirements for eligibility and do not guarantee admission. That remains at the discretion of the relevant supervisors and departments, and access to supervision remains highly competitive. The University must certify that there are sufficient supervisory and other resources and facilities available to enable your candidature to be completed successfully.

1. Find a supervisor within the University whose academic background aligns with your research. You may visit Research Supervisor Connect to start.

2. Contact a research supervisor through Research Supervisor Connect and provide:

• your academic/educational background and research experience with examples such as an academic transcript
• your CV/resume
• the area of interest for your PhD
• why you believe your research topics align with this supervisor

3. In conjunction with your supervisor, develop a research proposal, 2-4 pages in length that outlines the subject area, objectives and significance of your research. More information.

4. Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements.

5. If you intend to study part-time towards a PhD (international student visa holders must enroll full-time), you will also need to supply:
• evidence that shows you will have sufficient time available to plan and carry out the research under the supervision of the University, and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time PhD enrolment
• a declaration from your employer (if relevant) confirming that you will be permitted to take the time required to effectively pursue your studies.

6. Submit your application along with your research proposal, CV, academic referee reports, academic transcripts, supporting evidence (where required) and other supporting documents such as identification and evidence of residency status. Applications are made via the University’s online application portal.

7. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply Now’ button on the right hand side of this page.

Please note – Except for IPRS and UsydIS scholarships for international students, you must complete a separate scholarship application

You will be required to upload all of the following documents when you submit your application:

• certified academic transcripts for all your previous tertiary study, if they were not completed at The University of Sydney

• CV, providing a summary of your work experience

• two academic references (international applicants)

• statement for capacity to undertake part-time candidature (if applicable –domestic applicants)

• cover letter outlining your reasons for applying

• research proposal

• statement of capacity to undertake part-time candidature (if applicable –domestic applicants)

• evidence that your supervisor supports your application. This can be PDF copies of emails between you and your supervisor

• proof of your Australian residency status (a certified copy of the main page your Australian passport, or a certified copy of the main page(s) of your own passport with evidence of your visa)

• English language qualifications (if your prior study was completed at an institution where English is not the medium of instruction).