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. Opportunities for research and career development 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. We support and provide training for all candidates to participate in the annual university 3MT (Three-Minute Thesis) competition and offer lucrative prize money for the winners. Workshops to hone your skills Massey offers a wide range of workshops to PhD candidates. 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. Great connections and facilities Massey has close relationships with leading research organisations worldwide, and we regularly host visiting researchers and experts in many fields. You’ll have access to excellent research facilities and equipment, and benefit from Massey’s connections with industry. Regular feedback and support Start your research journey as part of the Massey researcher community. We place a strong emphasis on pastoral care and creating social networks. The School of Agriculture and Environment’s research is focused on taking our primary industries (pastoral agriculture, crops, horticulture and forestry) into a sustainable future, and ensuring the conservation of our indigenous biodiversity and landscapes. Agriculture at Massey is about understanding and optimising the growth of plants and animals for food, fibre and other products and to sustain and enhance our resources and people’s lives. We aim to find the right balance between production and sustainability. The innovations we bring to the primary industries come from our trans-disciplinary approach across the food value chain. Research expertise Agribusiness Agronomy GIS and geoinformatics Horticulture Māori agriculture and horticulture Plant science Smart farm and farm systems Soil and land management Water management