PhD frequently asked questions
Taking on a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) project is no small matter. We’ve put together some answers to common questions below.
What graduate research projects are available?
Available PhD projects are advertised here.
Orygen is also open to hearing from students who have an interesting question they want to pursue, provided it fits with Orygen’s existing research program. You can browse our research areas here.
How do I apply?
To apply to complete your PhD project with Orygen, visit the projects page here.
Click on the project you want to apply for and follow the steps.
Which university awards the PhD?
Orygen offers an internationally-respected PhD program as the Centre for Youth Mental Health (CYMH), University of Melbourne.
When do graduate research applications close?
PhD applications may be lodged at any time throughout the calendar year. You are strongly encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
When do scholarship applications close?
When you submit your graduate research application, you will automatically be considered for University of Melbourne graduate research scholarships. Scholarships are awarded in three rounds each year. Most scholarships are awarded in the first two rounds. You are strongly encouraged to submit your application before 31 October. More on scholarships and closing dates here.
Other scholarship opportunities may also be available but are highly competitive, so please speak to the contact person for the project you’re interested in applying for.
What are the entry requirements?
In order to be considered for entry, you must have completed:
- a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25 per cent of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 80 per cent or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
- a masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25 per cent of one year of full-time study and achieved a minimum weighted average of 80 per cent or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
- a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent; and
- a research proposal; and
- referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last five years); and
- the endorsement of a prospective supervisor.
What are the selection criteria?
In selecting masters applicants, the selection committee will consider applicants’:
- prior academic performance and, if relevant, professional qualifications;
- performance at interview;
- understanding of the research question to be explored;
- motivation and capacity to complete the course in a timely manner;
- relevant prior research and/or professional experience; and
- referee reports.
The selection committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the selection and admission policy.
What else will be considered?
Successful candidates will have the following background and experience:
- completed tertiary studies that are at least equivalent to a four-year honours degree at an Australian university with a minimum result of first class honours in the field of psychology, science, biomedical science or related discipline;
- strong statistical (SPSS, R or Python) and/or qualitative interview skills are desirable;
- excellent communications skills in English, both written and verbal; and
- experience in writing (international) publication(s) or conference presentations will be highly regarded but not essential.
How much will it cost to complete my PhD?
Information about University of Melbourne fees and payments for domestic graduate students is available here.
International applicants can find details here.
Will I need a scholarship?
Whether you need a scholarship will depend on your personal circumstances.
When you submit your graduate research application, you will automatically be considered for University of Melbourne graduate research scholarships. These scholarships are awarded in three rounds each year. Most are awarded in the first two rounds. You are strongly encouraged to submit your application before 31 October. More on scholarships and closing dates here.
Some Orygen PhD projects may come with a stipend, or partial stipend, which will be indicated in the project listing.
Other scholarship opportunities may also be available but are highly competitive, so please speak to the project contact person for further details.
If I complete my graduate research with Orygen, what resources are available to me?
Graduate research students will receive a workspace, laptop and relevant research software.
Your supervisory and advisory team will work with you to ensure you have all the resources and support required to complete a feasible and successful research program.
How many hours a week are involved?
Full time candidates are expected to commit on average 40 hours per week on their studies.
Those studying part-time should commit 20 hours per week.
How long will it take to complete my research project?
You are expected to submit your thesis for examination within three years (part-time six years).
Your expected thesis submission date may change during your candidature, for example if you take leave of absence, change your research degree, or change between full and part time study.
What else is required of me?
There are a range of expectations of you as a graduate researcher, including requirements that you be self-directed in your learning and research, agree to a work plan and stick to it, be proactive, resolve issues and conduct research ethically and responsibly.
Find a full list of roles and responsibilities here.
When would I start?
Applications for graduate research may be lodged at any time throughout the calendar year. Graduate researchers are encouraged to commence between February and November.
If you are successful in obtaining a scholarship, you must commence your scholarship by 31 October of the academic year you have been made an offer for.
Is there a student association?
There is an active graduate student network that meets regularly for social networking and professional development activities. CYMH is also a partner of the University of Melbourne Mental Health PhD Program (MHPP) and enrolled students are encouraged to join this program for additional networking and professional development opportunities.
What do past students have to say about their experience?
We have put together some student profiles outlining what previous PhD students thought, including what they studied, their highlights, and what a typical day involved. For an insight into the PhD experience, click here.
Where can I find out more information?
At the bottom of each project listing you’ll find supervisor contact details – feel free to reach out to them to discuss the opportunity.
If you have further questions please send them, along with your CV and university transcript(s), to [email protected]