To learn more about the application process and how to find and connect with a research supervisor please visit the Graduate Research School website.
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PhD is short for Doctor of Philosophy – a globally recognised research qualification. Traditionally, PhD students completed a substantial piece of original research which is presented as a thesis or dissertation. This research is conducted under the guidance of at least one expert supervisor.
Discover more about higher degrees by research at UniSQ.
If you have a passion for research and want to expand your knowledge in your choose field beyond a masters degree, a PhD might be for you. Other reasons to study a doctorate degree include:
A PhD qualification can open up many exciting career paths in a variety of roles and settings including:
A PhD degree will take you approximately three years to complete. Some students choose to study part-time which increases the time it takes to complete the doctorate.
To start a PhD you need to clarify your research topic and seek an academic staff member to be your supervisor, therefore we recommend allowing several months to consider your application.
Graduating with a PhD is a noteworthy achievement as it is considered the highest postgraduate achievement you can earn. After completing your Doctor of Philosophy you will likely be considered an expert in your field, opening up a variety of new career paths. After completing your PhD, take this unique opportunity to:
The cost of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will vary depending on the education provider you choose.
When you study with us, your degree will cost approximately AUD 31000 (Domestic full fee paying).
All Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens commencing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) degree will have their tuition fees paid by the Australian Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset scheme.
For further information on Fees, including RTP and scholarships, please view the Fees and scholarships section of this webpage.
The entry requirements for studying a PhD degree can vary depending on your chosen education provider. At UniSQ applicants must hold either a relevant bachelor honours degree, masters degree or other qualifications and satisfy applicable English Language requirements.
For further details please view the entry requirements section of this page.
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If you’re interested in furthering your career by studying this postgraduate degree, find out the admission details below.
Approval for admission to a PhD requires an applicant to demonstrate that they have sufficient background and experience in independent supervised research to successfully complete the course. It also requires the University to ensure that appropriate supervision and resourcing are available. Applicants are required to demonstrate that they have met the requirements of the University Policy on: Adequate Research Preparation and any other requirements for admission of the University, and— (a) have a bachelor's degree of this University or equivalent qualification; or (b) (i) have previously undertaken work of a sufficiently high standard towards a higher degree by research in this or another approved institution but not have submitted it for any degree; and (ii) have completed an appropriate PhD research proposal;
A student who wishes to undertake a PhD in the field of creative writing must, in addition, submit a substantial folio of published creative work, normally in the form of one or more books.
Prior to enrolment, all applicants are required to demonstrate that they have met the University’s English language requirements .
English is the language of instruction and assessment at UWA and you will need to meet the University’s English language requirements to be eligible for a place.
Ready to join us?
Find out how to apply through our online application portal.
We’ll guide you through the application process including important steps, entry pathways and documents you’ll need.
About the course, quick details.
Studying abroad in Australia has a lot more to offer than sun, sea and sand. With world-class research centres and internationally ranked universities, the country is also a vibrant hub for research and scholarship.
Australian universities carry out pioneering work in ecology, renewable energy, antibiotic therapy and more. So, whether you want to study marsupials or medicine, Australia is a place where your PhD could really make a difference. And you can still go surfing too!
PhD Study in Australia - Key Details | |
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A guide to everything you need to know about working in Australia both during and after your postgraduate degree.
You can earn up to AUS$760 per fortnight while studying a postgraduate course in Australia. Find out about the Austudy payments including eligibility criteria, applications and amounts.
A quick guide covering everything you need to know about driving in Australia as an international student, including licensing, costs and more.
Australian universities have two prominent intakes. In this guide, we take a look at the February intake. We have information about important dates and application timelines
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If you’re an international student who has completed higher education studies, you might now be considering studying a doctorate degree, also known as a PhD. In Australia, this is the highest level of study and, once completed, can unlock doors to better employment, higher wages, and industry recognition.
Here’s a handy guide on how to apply, what to expect, and where to find further information for your exciting next step.
An honours is an extra year of study in Australia. To qualify you need to have completed your undergraduate degree, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree, to a high standard. This is often considered a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree might consider a graduate certificate, which usually takes one semester of full-time study and can help you specialise in your chosen career path. One step up from a certificate is a graduate diploma. This type of study takes one year of full-time study and can often be continued on from the graduate certificate.
A master’s by coursework is similar to a graduate diploma but takes a little longer and is regarded as a higher qualification. In most cases, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree; however, in certain circumstances, extensive relevant work experience might be accepted instead. This type of course typically takes 18 months to complete. A master’s by research takes two years of full-time study and is based on a research project supervised by a university academic.
A doctorate by research or a PhD is the highest level of study offered in Australia. A PhD requires submission of a thesis that is assessed by examiners who determine whether the research is worthy of the qualification. A PhD student must show through their thesis that they have made a significant contribution to their field. Once graduated, the candidate may use the title of Doctor.
A PhD in Australia is usually studied over the course of three years. While some students take a little longer, extensions are subject to funding, as well as other important factors. Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa .
According to the Australian Government , fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the full amount if there is funding available, which is common in Australia. Most universities have funding for promising PhD students set aside. Get in touch with your chosen university directly to find out what scholarships are available to international students. The Australian Government also runs Destination Australia , which funds eligible education providers in regional areas to offer scholarships to both domestic and international students. The government also offers the Research Training Program for participating universities.
International students also need to consider the cost of living while abroad to qualify for their visa. You’ll need at least roughly A$21,041 for each year of your study in your bank account in order to be granted a visa.
In most cases you will need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Division A) – also known as ‘upper second-class’ honours – to apply for your PhD to demonstrate you have significant research experience. However, many education providers offer research-based qualifications to give you this experience if you didn’t complete an honours degree originally.
PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of your studies will be on working towards your doctoral thesis.
In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing and analysing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis.
In Australia, you are not required to undergo a viva voca , which is an assessed oral exam in defence of your research topic, method and predicted results. Instead, you are assessed solely on your thesis.
To apply for an Australian PhD, the first step is to contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose. The person you choose should be the lead researcher for the institution you wish to apply to, in the relevant field you wish to study.
Once you have what is known as an ‘expression of interest’ from a provisional supervisor, you can begin your formal application to the university. Most universities won’t consider an application without an expression of interest from a supervisor, so make sure you have this first.
To study as an international student in Australia, you must have a student visa (subclass 500) from the Australian government. Unless you are exempt, the application fee for this visa is AUD$710. You can read more about student visas and their requirements here .
Australian PhDs are delivered in English and have language skill requirements. There are various tests you can take to verify your English language skills including the IELTS, CAE and PTE. The score you need is usually specified on the universities website and will depend on the test you take.
International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in order to be granted their student visa. There are a variety of providers to choose from, including many universities, but the policy you choose must adhere to the Overseas Student Health Cover guides. Explore your options in greater detail here .
The new international student working limit of 48 hours every fortnight does not apply to international students who are pursuing a doctorate or a master’s degree through research. These students are not restricted in terms of the number of hours they can work. However, your actual work hours should align with your study requirements and also require approval from your academic supervisor. This is to ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary objective of completing your academic research.
PhD study is an excellent way to enter the Australian workforce and graduate visas are available that can entitle you to stay in Australia for up to four years after you have finished your PhD. In other words, if you have dreams of both furthering your education and settling long-term in Australia, a PhD could be the perfect way to make those dreams a reality.
Sarah Price
Originally from the UK, Sarah has worked as a freelance writer for nearly 10 years, both at home and now in Perth where she lives. Once an international student in South West WA herself, she loves to help new students feel welcome, confident, and ready to make the most of their study abroad. Having lived in Perth and explored a lot of WA, Sarah knows just how wonderful it is to discover this beautiful state.
Ask Us > Future student
What is the fastest pathway to complete a phd after an undergraduate degree.
The quickest pathway to a PhD after completing a bachelors degree is to complete an honours degree with first class or class 2A honours. We know this isn't always a viable path for prospective candidates, so the University provides other pathways and opportunities to demonstrate eligibility for a PhD program.
Please see PhDs and research degrees for more details on pathway programs.
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When considering which postgraduate qualification to undertake, there are different options available to match your personal goals. By choosing the right course and its corresponding qualification level, you will be guided to find a program that fits your needs to advance in your chosen field. There are numerous benefits to undertaking further studies, such as gaining a higher earning potential, demonstrating initiative through study, upskilling in new areas, finding networking opportunities , fulfilling educational requirements, and so many more. Everyone has unique aspirations and there are different courses available to meet those needs. Learn about the different Australian qualifications levels available to decide which route will work best for you.
There are different phrases, acronyms and industry terms when entering the tertiary education system. Understanding how to navigate the new terrain can be daunting without the right guidance. The University of Adelaide offers dedicated support staff to guide all online students through the post-graduate study experience.
Learn about the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) levels and explanations below.
Undergraduate qualifications (levels 1-7)
Level 1 – Certificate I
Level 2 – Certificate II
Level 3 – Certificate III
Level 4 – Certificate IV
Level 5 – Diploma
Level 6 – Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree
Level 7 – Bachelor Degree
Postgraduate qualifications (levels 8-10)
Level 8 – Bachelor Honours Degree, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma
Level 9 – Master’s Degree
Level 10 – Doctoral Degree
Undertaking a graduate certificate program provides a competitive advantage over those with an undergraduate degree and can provide an extra specialisation into a given field. Typically, graduate certificate programs can be completed in six months (full-time) or eight months (part-time) with a previous degree or equivalent work experience. It signifies additional authority on the subject with advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in your given field. In addition to this, employers regard graduate certificate qualifications highly.
Enrolling into a graduate certificate program like the Graduate Certificate in Data Science online , Graduate Certificate in Business Administration online , or the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security online all demonstrate advanced knowledge with the ability to communicate expertise to other colleagues.
This in-depth postgraduate qualification is typically finished in one year (full-time) or one and a half years (part-time) and provides additional knowledge to a chosen field. A graduate diploma offers students flexibility, as it is a strong qualification in its own right or can be used as a pathway towards further study. Depending on the program, this degree usually shares similar entry requirements to the graduate certificate and both are categorised as level 8 by the AQF. However, a graduate diploma goes into more depth and covers more than its partner category.
A postgraduate qualification like the Graduate Diploma in Psychology online prepares students who have no previous psychology experience to progress further and provides missing knowledge required to progress further in Psychology.
A master’s degree demonstrates specialised knowledge and research in a chosen field, it’s an advanced degree that builds authority and expert skills. Employers regard masters degrees very highly as it highlights critical thinking and the ability to integrate teaching into real-world situations. By learning to communicate information to specialists and non-specialists, masters graduates can communicate at different levels of a business. Expert and situational judgement are taught throughout the master’s degree and graduates can demonstrate a strong application of key learnings.
Programs like the Master of Business Administration online , Master of Business Administration (Health Management) and the Master of Data Science online develop industry leaders with comprehensive knowledge in their field.
The highest tertiary qualification is a doctoral degree which has two main categories, PhDs and professional doctorates. Both cover complex areas of a topic. PhDs redefine existing knowledge and work to advance scholarly understandings in a field, whilst professional doctorates make a significant and unique contribution to advancing professional practice. They both generate original thought and develop key concepts in the study area. When wanting to become an authoritative voice on a topic, doctoral degrees are the highest of the Australian qualification levels.
Once you have figured out which Australian qualification level is right for you, the next step is choosing a university. A reputable university will set your postgraduate qualification apart from the other graduates. The University of Adelaide offers flexible online learning options to facilitate study without compromising a busy work schedule. Gain study assistance from dedicated advisors who can guide you through the tertiary education process and give you the confidence you need to succeed. Finally, the University of Adelaide belongs to the Group of Eight , a prestigious ranking that makes the University of Adelaide amongst the leading schools in Australia. Make the most of your qualification and choose a university with the resources that will set you up for success.
If you’re ready to unleash your full career potential, make an appointment to speak with an advisor today .
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The UNSW combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical) is a four-year, full-time degree that encourages initiative and originality in research. High-level candidates are offered the opportunity to engage in advanced training in areas relevant to the professional practice of psychology.
Our program has a research component as well as coursework and professional placement components. Its focus is on the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of people with a range of psychological challenges. It includes advanced training in research skills that are particularly relevant to clinical application.
A full scholarship is required to undertake this program.
Primary supervision must be provided by an academic who holds a position in the School of Psychology.
The minimum academic eligibility requirement is completion of a four-year APAC-accredited sequence in psychology, including a major research thesis/project, with Honours Class 1 (85%), or international equivalent. Qualifications must have been completed within the last 10 years (exceptions may be possible in limited circumstances).
While there is a standard process to apply for most Higher Degree Research programs at UNSW, there are additional requirements for Combined applicants which relate to the Masters component of the program.
Please review the step-by-step application guide .
The School does not have specific requirements for a research proposal/research description. Applicants can be guided both by the general information published in the Document Submission Guidelines and advice from their potential supervisor.
Applicants must:
All applicants, domestic and international, are encouraged to use AHPRA’s Pathways diagram for all professions (under ‘Additional resources’) to guide their understanding of AHPRA’s requirements.
The program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a fifth and sixth year of study. Graduates are eligible to apply for full membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).
Graduates are also eligible for Associate Membership of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. After completing a Psychology Board of Australia approved Clinical Psychology registrar program (further two years of full-time equivalent supervised practice), graduates are eligible to apply for APS College of Clinical Psychology Fellowship and endorsement as a Clinical Psychologist.
The UNSW School of Psychology is considered the best in Australia and is ranked among the top psychological schools worldwide. We attract award-winning staff and offer excellence and innovation in our teaching.
The school has excellent research and professional training facilities that include extensive computing facilities, a psychological test library, a psychology clinic, a technical workshop and laboratories in all areas of experimental psychology.
The school also has strong links with professional practitioners in the areas of clinical, neuropsychological and forensic psychology.
There’s an increasing demand from a wide variety of agencies across Australia to obtain psychological expertise to aid understanding and management of psychological issues.
Clinical psychologists work in a wide range of settings, including:
Research component (PhD): Contact the Admissions and Scholarships team at the GRS or the Postgraduate Coordinators for the School.
Coursework component (Master of Psychology): Prospective applicants should review the School’s Frequently Asked Questions , Program Guide , or contact the School .
Learn more about our programs and connect with the UNSW School of Psychology.
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Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022 · 6-minute read
If you want the most straightforward answer to the question ‘can you get a PhD without a master’s degree’, it’s yes. Should you apply to study a PhD without a master’s though? Let’s unpack that.
There are quite a few entry requirements you need to meet to apply for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). At the core of it, all these requirements are about proving you’re ready to embark on the long (3-4 years full time) and challenging – but incredibly rewarding – process of conducting research and writing a thesis. PhD prerequisites are there to assess your preparedness for this type of study.
So, let’s have a look at what the PhD prerequisites are in Australia and the questions we’re commonly asked about them.
In Australia, you’ll need to have completed a degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) relevant to your proposed research topic and approved by the university to be considered as a candidate. However, the good news is, for those of you wondering ‘can you get a PhD without a bachelor’s?’ the answer is yes – it is possible at some universities.
Say you finished high school and went straight into the workforce. You built experience in your field over years of hard work. After a while, you decide that you’d like a qualification to solidify your knowledge and skills, or to upskill in your area and open even more doors. So, you apply for postgraduate studies.
Many universities in Australia will consider applicants for postgrad study (typically graduate certificates) based on proof of extensive professional experience and other post-secondary studies (certificates from TAFE, for example) in a relevant field, rather than the traditional completion of bachelor’s level studies.
Admission into a graduate certificate without a bachelor’s degree is very much dependent on your study area of choice and the institution at which you wish to study. Always check the specific prerequisites of the institution and program.
In most cases, if you want to study a PhD and you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, but you do have a lot of industry and research experience in your field, you’ll need to start your journey by enrolling in a graduate certificate and working your way up to a master’s and then a PhD. It’s possible to get into a PhD program with a graduate diploma (and no bachelor’s or master’s degree), but you’ll need extensive documentation proving former research experience to support your application – plus a decent GPA. This type of application is assessed on a case-by-case basis by some universities and can be extremely competitive.
As we said earlier, no – you don’t need a master’s to apply for a PhD. And if you're wondering more specifically ‘is an MPhil required for a PhD?’, the answer is also no. It may make logical sense at face value to complete a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and then go on to study a Doctor of Philosophy, but in reality, it tends to work a bit differently.
All these types of postgraduate degrees and higher degrees by research can be a little confusing to keep track of, so let’s break it down into simpler terms.
Degree | Duration | Delivery |
---|---|---|
Master's by coursework | 1-2 years full time | Structured coursework |
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) | 1.5-2 years full time | Self-directed research |
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD | 3-4 years full time | Self-directed research |
So, here’s how some of the pathways through these degrees work.
This is by no means an extensive list of ways in which you can order your studies; it’s just a few of the most common paths taken by university students interested in postgraduate studies and higher degrees by research.
Now we’ve established that you can apply to study a Doctor of Philosophy without a master’s degree, let’s address the next big question: should you? Here are just a handful of the reasons why completing a master’s before moving onto a PhD is generally a good idea:
Yes. Most universities will accept applications from students who have a bachelor’s degree with honours (typically at least IIA) as their highest level of completed study. Some universities may accept a bachelor’s degree without honours but with several years of relevant research experience, or a bachelor’s degree without honours but followed by a relevant graduate certificate or graduate diploma.
As we've emphasised above, there are definite benefits to completing further studies after your undergraduate degree to prepare you for your PhD. It’s understandable that you might want to fast-track your way to your Doctor of Philosophy, but remember that going in as prepared as possible will help you get the most out of your research.
If you don’t want to commit to a master’s program after your undergraduate degree but you still have your heart set on a PhD, talk to your course convener about fitting research units into your study plan during your bachelor’s program. Completing a graduate certificate or diploma following your bachelor’s, with a focus on the research area you wish to pursue with a PhD, will help you get a clearer idea of potential research topics too.
There are opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students to apply for one of UQ’s summer and winter research programs . These programs can help to boost your knowledge and skills in research and your field of study – and better prepare you for PhD studies.
When considering whether or not to apply for a PhD without a master’s degree, remember that the process is competitive, and it can take time to find the right supervisor . Having a master’s degree could put you ahead of other applicants and secure you that valued place as a PhD candidate.
Want to know more about how a PhD works? How do you find a supervisor? What are the best tips for writing your proposal? Find answers by reading our comprehensive guide: How to get a PhD.
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Honours is an additional qualification where you can build on your undergraduate studies by completing a supervised research project and disciplinary or research-focused coursework. This may be embedded in your undergraduate degree or require an additional year of study.
You can undertake honours through an appended honours degree after your undergraduate degree. Some professional or specialist degrees also have embedded honours study options.
Honours provides an opportunity to work on an independent but supervised research project and is usually completed as one year full-time study (some disciplines offer part-time options).
Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, you will choose a thesis topic, create a reading list and identify your method of research.
Academics in your faculty or school will provide supervision as you write your thesis. This thesis will document your research from proposal through to conclusion.
Completing honours shows you have achieved high academic standards and gives you a Bachelor (Honours) qualification.
An honours degree can open the door for further research study, equipping you with the prerequisite research skills to undertake a research degree such as the PhD.
Alternatively, if you decide to complete an honours degree without pursuing further research, you will graduate with a robust set of transferrable skills including:
Generally, honours will consist of two components:
You will usually complete a dissertation or thesis and attend regular meetings with your supervisor to discuss your research.
Once you complete the requirements for your honours, you will graduate with a Bachelor (Honours) degree.
You can contact the faculty or school honours coordinator from the area of interest you are considering, for more information about honours. We also hold honours information sessions (usually in September) where you can discuss your options.
The type of honours you undertake depends on your individual study circumstances.
Appended honours is an additional qualification that you complete after you have finished your undergraduate degree. Generally, appended honours is available to both current University of Sydney students and external applicants. You’ll find information and eligibility criteria for most appended honours degrees in Find a course .
As a current student, often you'll need to apply through Find a course in the same way that external applicants apply, but may also need to submit an additional application form to your school or discipline. When searching for these on Sydney Courses (Find a course) these degrees will look like the Bachelor of Arts (Honours).
If you enrolled in a combined Bachelor of Advanced Studies program prior to Semester 2, 2024, and plan to apply for honours, we will advise you during your candidature of your appended honours degree options.
Some bachelor’s degrees have an honours program embedded within them. You will complete your honours study during your current undergraduate degree by completing specific units. Honours will not increase the overall time taken to complete your studies.
Joint honours is when you complete one honours thesis in two subject areas closely related to each other. A special program of study is designed that allows you to complete the course concurrently in one year.
To apply for joint honours, you need to meet the eligibility requirements for both honours.
Contact the honours coordinator in your faculty or school to discuss your options.
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I recently completed a 3 year bachelor degree in Computer Science at an Australian university. I graduated with a GPA which is roughly the equivalent of a “C” in the US. I only blame the grades on my poor work ethic and wasting time studying content unrelated to my course. The pathway to a PhD in Australia is to do a 3 year Bachelors degree and then complete an honours year which involves a significant research component.
I emailed the honours coordinator and unsurprisingly, they replied that with my transcript I stand no chance. The only post I found online by someone with similar transcript got the advice that they shouldn’t even be thinking about doing honours and that it is sad enough that people with such low grades get degrees. I have tried to give up my desire to do research (in Machine Learning) because it is naive to think about doing an honours program, let alone harbour any delusions of doing a PhD.
I know at some point I’ll just have to accept the truth. But before I give up I want to fail one more time - only this time I want to give it my 100%. Is there any way to get a “second chance”? No matter what I do I feel that my transcript will forever haunt me. Even if I somehow found an honours program which would accept me (unlikely) and I managed to get straight A’s, my past grades mean that my average GPA would still be very low. My fate is sealed, and a criminal record would be less of a burden. I want to work hard but with a best case scenario so grim I don’t know what to do.
Should I do a second bachelors degree? Try to gain research experience (with problematic marks)? Or just get a library membership and call it a day?
Regarding your hypothetical argument about getting accepted to honours and good grades there not mattering: if you did get accepted and get great grades in the so-called honours program, It would almost certainly help you far more than by just averaging up your GPA. Universities will notice the upward trend and some will be willing to believe you have turned things around.
More generally, no matter what you do next, poor grades say two things, both of which you need to overcome:
You have poor study habits, hence you'd probably fail out of grad school by doing more of the same, because a "C" average isn't acceptable in grad school.
You didn't learn as much of the material as you should have, and are now behind everyone else who got better grades. And now you will be in over your head in graduate courses which build on those undergraduate courses.
You can address #1 by showing a pattern of improvement in taking new classes and doing well. For #2 you will need to basically learn the material in a second try. If you had non-existant study habits in school with all the support and pressure on you, I don't have too much hope for self-study. I'd suggest finding a way to retake some key classes.
I'd also note that machine learning may be very different than what you expect coming from a computer science background. It is a heavily mathematical subject, where the programming is the easy part. So you may be gaining some edge by focusing on a topic that is more interesting, but you're also doubling-down on what is likely the hardest component of your studies.
This answer is based on Australian observations.
Most Phd students at a university are selected from honours students within the same department, and sometimes the honours students are accepted with the hope they will prove to be a good Phd candidate.
I have seen one average undergraduate student accepted for honours - but they had a high grade in the one subject that was especially relevant and that they were really interested in.
This begs the question: what were you "wasting time studying content unrelated to my course" on?
If it was your boy/girl friend, well that wont help much.
However was it something you could call academic or even something like playing xbox?
Well then I would look at doing a 'Graduate Diploma' in a different but related field.
(In NZ) a Graduate Diploma consists of (the equivalent points of) one year of final year Undergrad papers (300-400 level)
Personal Story: I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Imaging), but found the real world work (taking X-rays) unsatisfying. So after a year taking X-rays (where I did get some interesting work stories * ) I went back and undertook a G.Dip Sci (Computer Science) at a different University. I have never looked back * .
So if you under took a G.Dip in say Game Development. You could use that opportunity to get better grades and still be able to move back towards Higher level, Machine Learning (As AI is a part of game design) qualification.
For this to work you will need to:
At the end of the day getting a Degree (etc) is about getting a job (for the most part). Even if that job is teaching at a university.
So once you have Honors or a PhD what are you going to do?
Remember Grades are only important to move from Student life to your first 'proper' job. Then how you apply yourself to work and self improvement (which is not graded) is what is important.
* When you are at a bar and some one asks how was your week, Saying you solved a tricky race condition bug, is way less impressive than 'Oh I had to tape down a dead guy in the morgue at work to day'. Still beats doing the shift work.
You should get a job in machine learning. You are fortunate that there are many job opportunities in that area right now. Get a few years relevant work experience, and then your ability to succeed in a PhD will seem more credible.
Edit: This won't work in Australia. Australian universities have hard grade/mark cutoffs for graduate study and don't consider your work experience. It will work in other countries that have more sensible policies.
A friend of mine dropped out of college after failing general chemistry twice in a row. He was going through a lot at the time that contributed to his lack of motivation and clear thinking. After his life situation improved, he started fresh with a different major at a different university and did well. If you have the financial means AND you are confident that you would succeed given another chance, then a second Bachelor's degree is a viable option. Be honest with yourself in evaluating the probability of success with this option if your situation has not changed.
You should absolutely try to gain research experience and self-teach machine learning. I successfully applied for financial aid to take a machine learning course on Coursera . The course was useful and enjoyable, and I now display the certificate on my Curriculum Vitae as evidence of my basic knowledge of machine learning. Furthering your education like this has multiple benefits: 1) demonstrates your interest and ability to academic programs and employers, 2) lets you advance your knowledge in a field of interest, and 3) lets you find out if you're actually as interested in the material as you think you are.
In addition, heed @Prof. Santa Claus' advice. There are a lot of programs out there. Apply around and see what sort of feedback you receive. You may be surprised by the extent to which some programs will look past sub-par academics if you can demonstrate your aptitude and interest in other ways (see self-teaching above). Lastly, the options you're considering are not mutually exclusive. The best strategy will likely combine applying around, furthering your knowledge on your own, and considering options outside of academia to get relevant work/research experience. Hope this helps.
Research is not about getting good grades, and grades are not necessarily strongly correlated with research skills. Don't be put off by your abysmal grades - really nobody cares about them later!
I'm not familiar of how this works in Australia. In Europe I would try to:
a) volunteer for a small research project with a friendly group leader. Knock doors and asks nicely. If you offer free (and hard) work, there is always stuff to do. Don't try to hide your grades. Whatever content unrelated to course work you studied, maybe it's useful for getting a project, too.
b) Try to identify the topic that is most crucial for what you want to do/are doing right now (i.e. the research project). It might be programming or some aspect of theory - pick something manageable. Study it such way that you know how to apply it (particularly in research), before picking the next topic. That's a long-term strategy for acquiring new and relevant skills.
Of course, for above strategies you need a bit of time, as you won't earn money directly.
Don't be put off. You're having a bit a bumpy start now, but in the long run enthusiasm, genuine interest, focus, and creativity matter more.
So no, don't get a second bachelors degree. Yes, try to gain research experience (with problematic marks)!
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May 24, 2023
An honours degree will prepare you for a range of research careers—or set you on a path towards a PhD. Learn more about how this qualification can take you further than a bachelor degree.
Should you study a straight bachelor degree , or a bachelor with honours? The short answer is: it depends! If you’re keen to head straight into the workforce after your undergrad, then it’s probably not necessary. But if you’re interested in a research heavy role or a career in academia, then an honours degree can be all but essential.
To help you decide, let’s explore what an honours degree is, exactly, and which industries value graduates with that mysterious ‘Hons’ post-nominal.
An honours degree is an optional fourth year of study you can complete as an extension of your bachelor degree. It’s a chance to deepen your knowledge in your field of interest.
During an honours year, you work on an independent research project known as a thesis under the mentorship of an academic supervisor. You divide your time between advanced coursework, writing your thesis, and attending regular meetings with your supervisor to discuss your project.
At the conclusion of the year, you’re awarded first class, second class or third class honours, depending on your final grades. If you graduate with first class honours, it means you're at the top of your class and you achieved outstanding results—which can be vital when applying for a PhD (more on this below).
A bachelor degree helps you build foundational knowledge in your field, while an honours degree lets you investigate a niche aspect of that field and develop a unique stance on it.
You walk away with advanced research, writing and communication skills, which can set you up for success in academia and certain roles within the workplace.
It’s an opportunity to hone your expertise on a topic.
As an honours student, you get to dive deeper into an area you’re passionate about, develop specialist research skills, and share an original piece of work with faculty you admire. That can be an incredibly rewarding and satisfying achievement. Some honours students are even encouraged to present at conferences or submit their thesis to an academic journal, which means their hard work is seen and appreciated by the wider industry.
If you have your heart set on a higher degree by research, it’s worth considering an honours year. The 15,000 to 20,000-word thesis you’re required to write will give you a taste for what it’s like to complete a masters by research or a PhD, which both involve even lengthier projects.
You can apply directly for a PhD and skip your masters if you have at least a second class honours degree, though it’s a competitive process. A first class honours degree will increase your chances of receiving a PhD living stipend scholarship.
An honours degree is viewed as valuable additional training in fields where complex analytical thinking is required, like science, engineering and history.
In some instances, honours is compulsory to progress in an industry. For example, you need an honours degree (or an equivalent fourth year of undergraduate study) to apply for provisional registration as a psychologist in Australia. You also generally need an honours degree if you want to get ahead in economics. The Reserve Bank of Australia and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s graduate programs prefer applicants to have an honours-level qualification.
There are two ways to get an honours degree:
You generally need strong academic results to be eligible for a standalone honours year. Most universities prefer you to have marks in the 65-75% range during the second and third year of your bachelor degree. There also needs to be an available supervisor in your field of interest, whereas in an embedded honours degree, one will be found for you.
Yes. You don’t have to complete your honours year with the university where you completed your bachelor degree.
You can apply for a 1-year standalone honours program with another university if you prefer, though be aware that you will need to meet their entry requirements.
Many students choose to study honours with their existing university because they already have relationships with the academic staff. But others prefer to widen their network and choose a thesis topic that another university is better equipped to handle. It’s entirely up to you.
Since it’s a research-centric course that involves a lot of uninterrupted downtime, you may benefit more from studying your honours degree online.
On-campus honours students have to attend some timetabled classes, whereas online students can complete their coursework at times of their choosing.
As an online student, you can also study with whatever university appeals to you the most, including unis outside of your home state. That gives you more freedom to work with a thesis supervisor you really admire.
Through Open Universities Australia, you can compare and enrol in select online honours degrees with different universities. See what’s available now.
An honours degree will push you to challenge yourself even more a bachelor degree. If you’re excited by the idea of learning from an experienced mentor, contributing fresh research to your field, and becoming a future subject-matter expert, then it could be a leap worth taking—and we’ll help you do it.
Reach out to an Open Universities Australia student advisor to chat about whether honours is right for you. They'll give you unbiased advice on your study choices.
Or browse online honours degrees available with leading Australian universities.
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It's still a useful guide in general, but the PhD application process may vary at other Australian universities. 1. Make sure you're eligible. To be considered for a PhD program, you'll need at least one of these: a bachelor's degree with honours or standalone honours degree, achieving IIA (second class, A division) honours or higher; or
Philosophy. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is an internationally recognised graduate research program that will enable you to become an independent researcher. With the guidance of an advisory team, you'll undertake a research project, produce an 80,000-word thesis and complete an oral examination. A PhD takes 3 to 4 years full-time.
The minimum requirement for admission to a PhD is: A UNSW Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours from UNSW; or. a completed Master by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high quality research thesis; or. an equivalent qualification from a tertiary ...
Grow professionally and academically through a paid 3-6 month internship with an industry partner as you complete your degree. The University of Sydney has partnered with Australian Postgraduate Research Intern (APR.Intern) to provide domestic and international HDR students with internship opportunities in a range of sectors and disciplines.
Course information. A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession. When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area ...
The PhD is a program of specialist expert knowledge which will open doors to academic, research and professional roles nationally and internationally. ... a four-year bachelor degree with honours class from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification experience -this qualification must be awarded in a field relevant to the ...
Studying an advanced, research-focused Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree at The Australian National University (ANU) is an opportunity to make a substantial and original contribution to your discipline or area of professional practice. ... An Australian bachelor's degree with at least second-class honours ...
Degree structure. The Doctor of Philosophy comprises a minimum of 16 independent research units, although students would normally complete 24 independent research units, with the option to extend to 32 independent research units if needed. Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.
The University of Western Australia (M355), 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, Western Australia 6009. Telephone. 131 UWA (131 892) ... PhD graduates move into a wide range of careers, depending on their areas of research. ... The normal requirement is for a bachelor's degree with at least upper second class honours in an appropriate discipline ...
PhD Study in Australia - 2024. Studying abroad in Australia has a lot more to offer than sun, sea and sand. With world-class research centres and internationally ranked universities, the country is also a vibrant hub for research and scholarship. Australian universities carry out pioneering work in ecology, renewable energy, antibiotic ...
Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa. According to the Australian Government, fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the ...
The quickest pathway to a PhD after completing a bachelors degree is to complete an honours degree with first class or class 2A honours. We know this isn't always a viable path for prospective candidates, so the University provides other pathways and opportunities to demonstrate eligibility for a PhD program.
Level 2 - Certificate II. Level 3 - Certificate III. Level 4 - Certificate IV. Level 5 - Diploma. Level 6 - Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree. Level 7 - Bachelor Degree. Postgraduate qualifications (levels 8-10) Level 8 - Bachelor Honours Degree, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma. Level 9 - Master's Degree.
In some degrees, honours is integrated and runs alongside the pass degree. This means you won't have to apply separately to do honours and won't need to complete specific honours units. An example is the Bachelor of Engineering Honours where all students will complete and be awarded honours as part of completing the requirements of the degree.
The UNSW combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical) is a four-year, full-time degree that encourages initiative and originality in research. High-level candidates are offered the opportunity to engage in advanced training in areas relevant to the professional practice of psychology. Our program has a research component as well as coursework ...
It's possible to get into a PhD program with a graduate diploma (and no bachelor's or master's degree), but you'll need extensive documentation proving former research experience to support your application - plus a decent GPA. This type of application is assessed on a case-by-case basis by some universities and can be extremely ...
The problem is, I'm unsure if I'm even eligible. I've read that in order to get into a PhD in Australia you need to have an Honours or graduate a Master by research. The one I'm currently doing is one by coursework..I was wondering if, because by the time I'm done I'll have finished two 6-month research internships ( in total a year) and with ...
Understanding honours. Honours is an additional qualification where you can build on your undergraduate studies by completing a supervised research project and disciplinary or research-focused coursework. This may be embedded in your undergraduate degree or require an additional year of study. 1. Overview and types of honours. 2.
From what I can understand, an Australian honours degree in these areas is similar to the requirements for masters degrees at the Unis I've looked at (at my uni, it consists of a year of coursework and research with a fairly lengthy thesis due at the end, done after a bachelors degree), and is the typical way to apply for a PhD within Australia.
For computer science honours in Australia I believe it is often half or more coursework, however there is often few courses specifically aimed for PhD students (similar for maths and physics). Other science honours courses can often be entirely research (plus attending seminars). Though you'd still need to understand the material -
An honours degree will prepare you for a range of research careers—or set you on a path towards a PhD. Learn more about how this qualification can take you further than a bachelor degree. ... to apply for provisional registration as a psychologist in Australia. You also generally need an honours degree if you want to get ahead in economics.
Coming from an undergrad in the US, it is very likely that you may be behind the Australian students at the beginning of the PhD. Here, people do much more specialised work starting in HS, then either Honours or Masters as a fourth year, and then a 3.5 year PhD, so really it's like starting a PhD in the US at the third year.
Here at monash the science cohort is ~1000 a year, same for arts and thats just at Monash. A fair few kids move onto honours and PhD. Way more people than work available. ... Be thankful that Australia has the RTS so you can do a PhD for free! If you were an international student the same PhD would cost you $100k - it's a hell of an expensive ...