A PhD is an advanced research qualification and is the highest degree offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The PhD is examined by thesis after a minimum of two but typically three years of full-time supervised research. It can also be undertaken part-time. Supervision for PhD research is available in almost all subject areas offered by the Faculty. The PhD thesis is a major piece of original research that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to carry out independent research and constitutes a significant and original contribution to knowledge or understanding of a field of study. As well as intelligence and an aptitude for research, the degree requires considerable dedication and tenacity. The Faculty of Graduate Research (FGR) provides a first port of call for all students interested in enrolling in a PhD at Victoria. Its website provides application forms, details of available funding, application dates, and answers to a host of questions. The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences places a high value on research and provides ongoing support and services for PhD students, including access to financial support through the Faculty’s joint research committee. PhD students may be eligible for grants of up to $2,000 a year. Information on how to apply is available on the Faculty’s intranet. For access, you will need a Victoria University staff email address if you don't have one already, contact your School administrator or the Joint Research Committee Administrator Margot MacGillivray.