Thinking About Graduate Research at Melbourne?
Read our latest brochure and discover why you should apply for graduate research at the University of Melbourne.
About the University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a leading international university with a tradition in research excellence. We are internationally recognised for the world-class research training we offer our PhD and masters candidates. The University attracts outstanding staff and students from across the globe and has built a strong international reputation on the basis of its research. This is reflected in our rankings:
- No.1 in Australia and 28 in the world in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (2012-13)
- No.1 in Australia and 57 in the world in the Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic Ranking of World Universities (2012)
The University of Melbourne offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Masters by Research degrees. As members of one of Australia's largest research institutions, graduate researchers at Melbourne are working on projects spanning a huge range of fields. The University is made up of 19 discipline-specific Faculties and Graduate Schools which embrace over 120 research centres. The University is also affiliated with many research institutes and hospitals, putting it at the heart of biomedical research efforts in Melbourne and Australia.
Graduate Research degrees
Graduate research degrees are offered through our Faculties, Graduate Schools and centres. You can discover more about their research areas and specialisations through the Graduate Research Opportunities website. This will assist you in finding out within which Faculty or Graduate School you can pursue your research interest, who specialises in your field of study, and who to contact with enquiries and for more information.
Find out more about applying for a graduate research degree, including entry requirements, fee and scholarship information, and how to identify potential supervisors.
Academic and Professional Development
At the University of Melbourne, we offer outstanding research training and professional development opportunities for our graduate researchers, at all stages of candidature. These include transition & orientation events, skills workshops and seminars, online collaborative research tools, three minute thesis competitions, coursework leadership programs, library research courses and much more.
These valuable, highly sought after opportunities have been designed and are managed by leading research training academic and professional staff at the Melbourne School of Graduate Research. Participating in these opportunities not only supports you throughout your candidature, but allows you to get your degree off to a flying start, maintain momentum throughout your candidature, complete successfully and reach beyond your research degree. Find out more about the exciting opportunities on offer.
Thakshila Balasuriya
PhD in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
"I chose The University of Melbourne to undertake my PhD because of its excellence as a high quality research institute in Australia and world-wide. The Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering has many experts in my field of research. Studying at The University of Melbourne has been a great opportunity, and over the years I have gained valuable knowledge and experience. I have been able to extend my skills and enrich my university experience through participating in various graduate events such as UpSkills seminars and the 3 Minute Thesis Competition."
Holly Morgan
Masters of Music Performance (by Research)
"I chose to study my Masters of Music Performance (by Research) at the Faculty of the VCA and Music because of the internationally renowned vocal staff, and the abundant resources on offer (large performance theatres, practice rooms, multi-media equipment, graduate lounge, and extensive library of musical scores). Being in both an artistic and research community has nourished my love for both areas of critical investigation. My experience has been greatly enriched by presenting at the Graduate Works in Progress seminar and the 3 Minute Thesis Competition. "
Candidature support
The University of Melbourne provides comprehensive candidature support for all graduate researchers across four main areas:
- The Melbourne School of Graduate Research provides research training & professional development, as well as support for graduate research candidates unable to resolve a grievance at the local level.
- The faculties / graduate schools administer day to day candidature requirements
- Melbourne Research provides support and advice on ethics and intellectual property
- The Graduate Student Association provides advocacy support and advice
Jointly-awarded and other collaborative PhD programs
PhD candidates at the University of Melbourne have the opportunity to undertake a jointly-awarded PhD or other collaborative PhD degree with a nominated approved university. These programs allow approved PhD researchers to be supervised by both University of Melbourne and nominated overseas university academics. Selected PhD candidates are enrolled concurrently at the two universities for the entire period of their degree and they spend at least 30% of the total maximum time limit (or one year) in each university. Existing agreements include:
Jointly awarded PhD programs
Other collaborative PhD programs
Scholarship and Sponsorship Opportunites
Find University of Melbourne graduate research scholarships, sponsorship opportunities, prizes and awards, and a host of other opportunities offered by various external organisations for both local and international, current and prospective candidates.