Industry connected research for modern careers
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Distinctive Advantage
Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD Plus) is designed for you to pursue your passion for research and boost your post-PhD career prospects.
PhD Plus students are given the tools to advance their careers in academia or industry through a unique mix of internships, research projects, skills development, mentorships and networking opportunities.
You’ll be encouraged to think big, be entrepreneurial, find innovative solutions to real-world problems and make a positive change. Our PhD Plus will help you stand out in a highly competitive job market and advance your career prospects.
Why choose PhD Plus
Bespoke research
Design a degree that meets your individual interests while advancing your career prospects.
Plus elements
Engage with industry and add optional 'Plus' elements to your PhD like internships, exchanges, research pitches and mentoring.
Expert academics
Join UC’s dynamic and collaborative research team, featuring world-renowned experts in their fields.
UC provides a variety of merit-based scholarships to assist outstanding Higher Degree by Research (HDR) applicants. UC offers two main types of scholarships:
- Stipend scholarships are typically paid fortnightly for a duration of up to 3.5 years, aiming to assist with living expenses during your studies.
- Top-up scholarships supplement your standard stipend amount annually, available to current stipend scholarship holders.
For more information on research scholarship opportunities, applications, eligibility criteria and conditions, see our Research Scholarships page.
Industry internships
Diversify your skillset, establish new networks and gain valuable work experience outside of academia.
Participate in a paid or voluntary internship in industry, government, non-government organisations, community or not-for-profit groups.
Mentoring
You can be mentored by PhD graduates or industry/sector professionals in a similar industry or research area. Be empowered to develop as a researcher and increase your visibility as an emerging expert in your field. Benefit from shared experience, connect with industry professionals, and learn how your research can translate into the real world.
Research pitch
Develop your researcher profile and networks across various platforms, while refining your ability to pitch your research to a range of audiences through workshops and presentation opportunities like our Three-Minute Thesis pitching competition.
Fieldwork or lab exchange
Discover the collection of data outside of a laboratory, with an international and national fieldwork or lab work exchange. Whether it be at another university, organisation or research institute, this allows you to gain firsthand experience in your research area.
Entrepreneurship
Produce impactful research with an entrepreneurship or commercialisation opportunity. Bring your ideas to life with the opportunity to implement innovative strategies through UC’s student incubator, research consultancy, practicum and exhibition or creative work/publication.
Teaching Opportunities
Expand your horizons as a doctoral candidate, putting your knowledge into practice in a new environment. Engage as a tutor or casual lecturer and support curriculum design, marking and related activities. You’ll participate in course, school or faculty meetings and gain invaluable teaching experience.
Follow the steps below to apply for PhD Plus.
"PhD Plus develops candidates beyond just being individual puzzle pieces in the larger scheme of things, and really helps us figure out how we fit into the bigger picture and industry."
Lisa Russ – PhD Plus candidate, Internship Program
We understand further study is an investment, but one that yields a lifetime of benefits for you and the community. Whether your moving interstate of internationally, we’re committed to making your PhD journey financially manageable.
Plus, Canberra boasts a lower cost of living compared to other major Australian cities, with competitive rent prices, convenient public transport, and numerous student discounts.
Want to know more? Get in touch with UC's graduate research team at graduateresearch@canberra.edu.au
