Doctor of Philosophy

UniSA provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment where you are encouraged to explore your own ideas under the supervision of some of Australia's leading researchers. Our focus is always on finding practical solutions and creating new knowledge.

We are also the No.1 university in South Australia for psychology research1.

Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented. We are renowned for our concentration of global thought-leaders and academic experts in areas such as psychology, law, social work, human services, arts, and Aboriginal and Australian studies.

We offer a research environment with highly experienced and engaged supervisors, extensive connections to industry, government and communities, and a focus on addressing globally significant issues. We encourage you to connect with our researchers and find out the possibilities.

In the 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings, all of our assessed research was rated at or above world-class with particular strengths in psychology, law and social work. Read more about our strengths in research.

1The only university in SA to have all its assessed Psychology and Cognitive Sciences research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

A PhD will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in academia, or in research with a research institution or university. Alternatively, you may choose to work in your chosen specialisation.

For students of Aboriginal Studies there are a range of employment options, including:

• ongoing research in Aboriginal Studies
• teaching and lecturing in Aboriginal Studies
• policy development
• government and non-government organisation involved in Aboriginal health, housing, education and employment

Advanced research experience may also be the gateway to the Australian Public Service or leading NGOs, where you will be qualified to work across a range of sectors.

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

• understands current research based knowledge in their field and its methodologies for creating new knowledge. They can create, critique, and appraise new and significant knowledge.
• is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence in research within and beyond a discipline or professional area
• is an effective problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of research problems
• can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher within a particular discipline or professional area and within wider but related areas
• is committed to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen
• communicates effectively as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading member of the community
• demonstrates international perspectives in research in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen