Doctor of Philosophy - Architecture, Building and Planning (DR-PHILABP) // Entry and participation requirements

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

PhD applicants will be assessed using the criteria described below. The measures include an assessment of a candidate’s knowledge of the discipline and evidence of their ability to complete a rigorous research project.

Applicants are required to meet the minimum standards described below. Meeting these criteria, however, does not guarantee selection.

Minimum qualifications and level of academic achievement

To be considered for entry, applicants must have completed:

• a four-year honours degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% in the final year subjects (H2A University of Melbourne equivalent); or
  
• a Masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% (H2A University of Melbourne equivalent); or
  
• a qualification and professional experience considered by the Higher Degrees Research Committee (HDRC) to be equivalent;

In addition, applications will be assessed on:

Relevance of the Degree

The completed degree must be in an area that is relevant to the intended PhD. Professional experience in the area of the intended PhD may be deemed equivalent.

Currency of applicant’s knowledge of the discipline

The applicant’s degree/s and/or professional experience must demonstrate that their knowledge of the discipline in which they plan to undertake their research higher degree is current.

Quality of research proposal and level of suitability

The quality of the applicant’s research proposal will form part of the assessment. Based on interview or other verbal communication, an assessment may also be made of the applicant’s level of understanding, motivation and time commitment for the proposed program of study. For example, a full-time student will be expected to devote at least 40 hours a week and a part-time student about half of this.

Demonstrated ability in the creative discipline (for those applying to do a creative work and dissertation)

For example, through the submission of a folio of prior creative works.

Referee reports

Referee reports will also be considered in the assessment.

Applicants must also meet the University’s English Language requirements

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

All PhD candidates are required to complete the equivalent of at least 12months full-time (24 months part-time) advanced study and research at the University unless studying at an outside institution approved by the Higher Degrees Research Committee (HDRC). The HDRC will not approve entirely distance supervision or entirely on-line supervision for research higher degree students.

Throughout their candidature candidates are expected to attend the University in order to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up their research within a University community and environment.

The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the first six months of candidature. During this time the student is expected to interact on a regular basis with the supervisor, the department (including staff and other research students) and the University, so as:

• to build the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out the proposed research program
• to acquire an understanding of the standards and requirements for an PhD awarded by the University
• to make use of support programs and facilities provided by the University throughout the candidature

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support Service.

Last updated: 20 June 2024