Monash Arts is renowned for innovative, engaging and high quality research in the humanities and social sciences and the Research Graduate School is committed to providing graduate research education of the highest quality in a stimulating, supportive and professional environment. A PhD offered in Arts takes the form of the Monash Doctoral Program – a PhD for the 21st century. At the core of the program is an extensive, independent research project on an agreed topic, supported by a minimum of two expert academic supervisors. This is enhanced by professional development activities or coursework units that provide you with the skills required to make an impact in academia, industry, government or the wider community. Your study will result in a research thesis or alternative approved output, which makes a valuable contribution to the current body of knowledge on your chosen topic. Start of expanded content While a general Doctor of Philosophy in your chosen field is the most commonly taken PhD, you can also opt for one of the following specialised areas of study: Creative Writing Journalism Music Composition Music Performance Theatre Performance Translation Studies Arts research graduates now seek careers across a wide range of professions, and the coursework and professional development built into the Monash Doctoral Program are designed to impart skills and knowledge that will assist you in conducting your research, and prepare you for future leadership and success. Activities cover general topics such as innovation, collaboration, networking and project management along with workshops and seminars that deepen your discipline-specific expertise. You will be assigned to the professional development activities or coursework study most relevant to your research focus from the following areas: Film, media and communications Historical studies Linguistics and applied linguistics Literary and cultural studies Philosophy Social and political sciences Theatre, performance and music Philosophy is the main area of study for a PhD taken in Arts. A Doctor of Philosophy involves the independent investigation of a research problem formulated by students in consultation with their supervisors. You will produce a research thesis of no more than 80,000 words (or alternative approved output). Depending on supervision and resource availability, research topics are available in most areas of research strength including: Cultural Heritage Environmental Sustainability Interpreting Cultures Philosophy and Bioethics Social and Cultural Theory Global Change and Global Security Health, Wellbeing and Social Change Along with the research component, you will also complete a series of professional development activities or coursework units relevant to your chosen research focus.