Research degrees

World-leading research

Is it your dream to work in academic, scientific or public research? Or would you prefer to take your advanced project skills into industry, the public sector, or creative industries? Our degrees will give you the training and supervision to achieve your goals.

Research degree candidates are driven by naturally inquiring minds and/or a passion to solve problems and help humanity. Our degrees give you the opportunity to conduct unique research, create new knowledge and become an expert in your field.

Join a passionate community

At the University of Tasmania, we recruit some of the best researchers and candidates in the world. Ours is a collaborative, diverse and exciting research community, providing you with the training and skills for a rich career in academia and beyond.

With over 1,400 candidates, you’ll thrive in an environment that stimulates creativity and innovation.

Worldwide reputation for research excellence

Quality supervision and support

Tasmania offers a unique study lifestyle experience

How to apply

If you are interested in applying to undertake a Higher Degree by Research, please use the following steps to assist you in understanding the application process.

Step 1 - Before you start

Check that you meet our course entry requirements and English language proficiency
Find out about our Scholarships
Review the list of available Research Projects

Step 2 - Find a project

Choose a project that aligns with your research experience and interests.
Please read the project description carefully – some projects may have specific eligibility and/or selection criteria.
Contact the nominated supervisor to discuss your suitability and the project requirements.
Develop a Research Proposal in collaboration with the project supervisor, A good proposal shows you have a clear vision of the research topic and frames your project. The proposal should be approximately 2 pages long.

Please consider using the following structure for your research proposal:
- The aims and objectives of your research
- The importance of your research question to the field
- The research methodology
- The expected outcomes

Step 3 - Submit an application

Before you start, prepare your application documents

You will be prompted to upload documents as you complete the application form. It’s recommended that you use a standard naming convention for your uploads – for example, NAME_Cover letter; NAME_CV; NAME_Undergraduate qualifications
At a minimum you will need -
- A copy of your passport
- A cover letter outlining your interest in the project and relevant skills (1-2 pages)
- A Research Proposal (see Step 2)
- Evidence of your qualifications
- Certified copies of transcripts/academic records and testamur/degree certificates for ALL previous university studies, complete and incomplete. A copy of your research thesis (from your Honours or Masters degree)
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV), this must include the contact details of two referees
- Evidence of English language proficiency

Once you have prepared your documents, use the Online Application System to submit your application.

Detailed instructions on how to complete the form can be found using our 'HDR How to Apply guide' (PDF 1.4 MB).

When prompted, please ensure you copy and paste the exact project title as listed at available research Projects.

Once all the mandatory fields have been completed, and the supporting documents have been uploaded to your application, please click the submit button.

Step 4 - Wait for a response

The Graduate Research Office will undertake an initial assessment of your application.
If you meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen course, your application will be forwarded to your proposed School/Institute and College for consideration.
The Graduate Research Office will advise you of the outcome of your application via email.

Step 5 - If your application is successful

You will receive a formal written offer of admission via email. The offer will include terms and conditions of candidature and, if applicable, scholarship conditions.

Domestic candidates have two weeks to accept or decline an offer of candidature and/or scholarship, and two months to commence their candidature.
International candidates have eight weeks to accept or decline an offer of candidature and/or scholarship, and six months to commence their candidature. International candidates who accept an offer of candidature only must be able to cover all expenses associated with a research degree.