The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree provides training and education with the objective of producing graduates with the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality.
A PhD candidate will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas.
The award of a PhD is a recognition of successful research experience of international standard in the discipline.
Doctorates are completed within 3 years full-time candidature, with a maximum enrolment of four years full time, or part-time equivalent.
Candidates undertake their independent research under the expert guidance of a panel of supervisors.
The School of Social Sciences and Psychology at Western Sydney University delivers excellence in research and teaching and has a robust level of community engagement. The School provides innovative and relevant undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Many of the programs that are managed by the School lead to professional recognition in areas such as Clinical Psychology, Social Work, Counselling, Urban Planning, Policing and Humanitarian work.
Your career
As a Doctor of Philosophy graduate, you can look forward to career opportunities in settings such as:
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
March 2025
Parramatta South Campus
Victoria Road,
RYDALMERE,
New South Wales,
2116, SYDNEY, Australia
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
June 2025
Penrith (Kingswood) Campus
Second Avenue,
Kingswood,
New South Wales,
2747, Australia
An applicant for a PhD program must either hold: A Master’s degree by research, or A Bachelor (Hons) degree with Class 1 or Class 2 division 1 honours, or A demonstrated capacity for research in a discipline deemed to be acceptable to the university.
English Language Requirements:
IELTS: 6.5 overall score (min 6.0 in each subtest); TOEFL internet-based score of 82: Writing 21, Speaking 18, Reading 13, Listening 13; Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE): 58 overall; No communication skills less than 50.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Western Sydney University is among the world’s top 2 percent of universities and places students at the very heart of the university experience.