What is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (By Prior Works)?
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (by Prior Works) is a unique program tailored for experienced researchers who have a substantial body of high-quality, peer-reviewed publications accumulated over the past decade. Candidates are required to compile these works into a thesis that narrates their original contributions and showcases their academic rigor and innovative thought. This thesis must align with the Field of Research and Education at Torrens University and make a significant impact on existing knowledge in their respective fields.
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate original contributions to a substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of the chosen field.
- Show evidence of appropriate and purposeful research principles, ethical practices and methods for the field including any technical and creative skills for enhancing the work.
- Apply cognitive skills including critical analysis, argument and problem solving that designed and implemented a theoretical/practice proposition and applied intellectual independence to evaluate existing knowledge and to generate original knowledge.
- Exhibit appropriate and coherent communication skills that represented cogently a complex investigation of original research against international standards and communicated the results to peers and the community.
- Exemplify Intellectual independence and initiative evident in the published works that generated intellectual activity.
This course is delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 03389E
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (By Prior Works) have a bright future. They will have demonstrated their preparedness for a career in research and analysis within government, higher education, research centres and private enterprises. Graduates will have demonstrated intellectual leadership, positioning them for roles such as those in the following areas:
- Policy research: Policy, program & project jobs - Local, State and Federal Government
- Research Project Director for Government Agencies and NGOs
- Research and Innovation Director
- Academic researcher for higher education
- Industry Sector advisor
Subjects and units
Delivered both on campus and online, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (by Prior Works) comprises eight Thesis units, requiring 40 hours per week.
Thesis subjects
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Thesis Unit | THE601 to THE608
Research project
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)(by Prior Works) is for established researchers of international standing in their respective field who have not received a higher doctoral award. The candidate must possess a established body of work published within the last 10 years. Candidates will complete eight thesis units, undertaken over 12 months culminating in a thesis narrative (exegesis) communicating the contribution of the prior published works to the field of research. The exegesis must demonstrate original thought and academic rigour, contributing to existing knowledge in the field to warrant award.
Entry details
Fees
Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.
FEE-HELP
Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.
Scholarships
We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Please discuss these options with international and domestic admissions on application. For more information, please email HDR@torrens.edu.au
Admission criteria
Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.
Applicants with work and life experience
A person may be considered for direct entry admission to study for the degree of Professional Doctorate (By Prior Works) if they are successful on application.
An application will include:
Application Form;
Academic Referee Report including two supporting letters from referees;
Citation list of publications from the last eight years.
Candidates admitted to the Professional Doctorate (By Prior Works) must fulfil the requirements of a significant and original contribution through submission of their prior published works in a specific thesis format.
Applicants with doctorate qualifications are excluded from admission to candidature.
Applicants must be established researchers and be of international standing in their respective field on the basis of their ongoing record of academic work.
AND
Have a portfolio of high-quality publications where the applicant is either sole author or primary author, which have been subjected to peer review and published in quality outlets of international standard.
Prior works must not incorporate work previously submitted for the award of a degree and may be presented as an integrated theme.
Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.How to apply
Get started
Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.
Apply
It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 575 803.
Offer
We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.
Frequently asked questions
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What is the difference between a PhD and a PhD by Prior Works?
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Why would I choose a PhD by Prior Works?
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Can I do a PhD by Prior Works if I already have a PhD?
Similar courses
Doctor of Philosophy
Professional Doctorate (Research)
Master of Philosophy
Master of Research Studies
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