Massey’s Doctor of Philosophy is a prestigious research qualification essential for a rewarding academic career in any research institution or university. It’s the highest supervised degree Massey University offers. To do a PhD you need to have a passion for your subject, and pursue it to the limit. The degree is awarded for a thesis that demonstrates the candidate's ability to carry out independent and original research that provides a significant contribution to the knowledge and understanding of a field of study. Candidates can complete a thesis with publications or a monograph, depending on the supervisor’s advice. The programme is expected to be completed within three to four years full-time or six years part-time. PhD candidates can access the UK Vitae platform which is a world leader in supporting the professional development of researchers. Massey is the only New Zealand university that subscribes to Vitae. Workshops to hone your skills Graduate Research School - develop your research skills from project management to writing a research funding application. The Centre for Teaching and Learning - improve your study skills with writing support workshops. Massey Library - develop as a researcher, including learning strategies for getting published and data management. Accessible lecturers and supervisors Massey University academic staff provide quality and caring supervision and are easily accessible. We limit our PhD enrolments to high-achieving candidates, so you’ll receive close attention and regular interaction with staff. You’ll have at least two supervisors, allowing you to benefit from a range of expertise. Health Sciences College of Health staff focus on a wide array of interrelated health research themes. At the highly individual biomolecular level, we investigate how specific foods or nutrients improve the way energy is used in every cell of our body. Massey University has a number of world-leading scientists working in the area of biological sciences, across the University’s areas of expertise. Research expertise in Biological sciences Biochemistry, biophysics and biotechnology Biomedical science and biological basis of disease Food biosciences Genetics and genomics Metabolic health Microbiology Quantitative biology Research expertise in Maori health Mental health in social work Māori health Māori social workers in schools Social service and decolonisation in Aotearoa New Zealand Research expertise in Environmental and occupational health Environmental health Occupational health Research expertise in Population health and policy: Epidemiology Health and international development Health economics Health literacy, communication and social justice Healthy ageing Māori health Predictive analytics in health and social sciences Public health and health promotion Public health nutrition