The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is an internationally recognised advanced research qualification jointly awarded with a partner organisation as prescribed in a joint PhD agreement between La Trobe and the partner organisation. Each PhD candidate undertakes a substantial piece of independent and sustained research on an original topic under academic supervision and leading to the submission of a thesis for examination. The research is expected to make a significantly new and innovative contribution to the discipline. Candidature may be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, subject to the restrictions of the student visa. The thesis must be
submitted in no more than four years (or part-time equivalent) of commencement in the degree.
Candidates will enrol in the Joint PhD program in parallel at both institutions and if already having commenced a PhD course at their home institution, transfer into the Joint PhD course upon enrolment into the host institution (typically this must occur no later than 12 months after enrolment at the home institution). Upon offer of enrolment, applicants will receive written advice relating to the requirements of the Joint PhD program, including any variations with respect to the single PhD requirements and policies at both institutions issuing the offer of enrolment.
Candidates are supported by at least two supervisors with a demonstrated track record in the proposed area of investigation: A principal supervisor based at the home institution and a co-supervisor based at the host institution. Supervisors must meet the supervision accreditation criteria of both institutions and will maintain regular contact with each other and the candidate as outlined in the Graduate Research Supervision Policy. Candidates will undertake a tailored program of progress monitoring, determined by a Doctoral Advisory Committee and monitored by both institutions as required to meet the regulatory requirements of both institutions. Both institutions collaborate closely around the various aspects of the program and candidature, including student selection, candidature management and progress monitoring, examination and graduation.
Candidates who complete the program successfully will graduate with a PhD awarded jointly by La Trobe and the partner institution, with either one double-badged testamur, or two counterpart testamurs as determined by the partnership agreement. All PhD programs are administered by the La Trobe Graduate Research School.
