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Higher degrees by research (HDR) at UQ

Complete a collaborative Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or professional doctorate at UQ.

Applications close soon. Are you a domestic or onshore international student looking to commence in January or April 2026? The application deadline for Graduate School Scholarships (UQGSS) is 18 August 2025. 

UQ research programs

Explore our research programs to learn more about the experience, eligibility and how to apply.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Make breakthrough discoveries with UQ’s internationally recognised PhD program.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Complete a significant research project (40,000 words) with guidance from an advisory team.

Doctor of Veterinary Clinical Science (DVetClinSc)

This residency program includes clinical training and a thesis to help you become a specialist.

Find your research team

Join an ongoing project or create your own with multidisciplinary supervisors and cutting-edge research facilities. By combining ideas and expertise across various fields of study, you’ll have the flexibility to break academic barriers and discover connections that others miss.

You must discuss your research interests with your proposed supervisor early in the application process. Don't forget to check out our advice on how to contact a supervisor. 

Choose your supervisors

Your principal adviser will lead a supervisory team to support you and guide your research.

Join a project

Consider joining an existing funded project, where your work will support ongoing research. Available projects span a wide range of fields.

How to pay for your degree

Scholarships

You may be eligible for a $36,400 annual living stipend, plus scholarships to support tuition, travel and accommodation.

Fees and costs

The cost of your degree will depend on whether you're a domestic or international student and how you plan to study (such as part-time).
PhD student talking with their supervisor on campus.

How to apply

Learn about the application process, from what to submit (proof of research experience and English language requirements) to timelines and where to get help.

Why research with us

Collaborative research teams

Work with multidisciplinary mentors to discover new angles in your research.

Career support

Access training, mentoring, industry placements and more to prepare for your next step.

Graduate outcomes

Become sought after as one of the most employable graduates in the state.

Facilities

Access world-class facilities and cutting-edge research equipment. 

Innovation leaders

Study with innovators – we ranked #40 in the world for scientific papers in 2024.

Queensland liveability

Study in one of the safest, most liveable places on earth. Sunshine guaranteed.

Male student smiling

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

We have dedicated application support and tuition, stipend and top-up scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
PhD candidate Beatris Martin with supervisor Colleen Lau

Study in Australia

Want to do part of your PhD here in Australia or embark on field trips around the world? Explore your global research options.
2 PhD students looking at a laptop.

Take your PhD research abroad

Go on exchange with one of UQ’s global partner institutes or embark on international field trips. Explore your mobile research options.

Collaborative / joint supervision opportunities Joint PhD programs

Start your research journey here

Register your interest and we'll send you everything you need to know about applying for a research degree at UQ.

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Do you have questions?

The Graduate School can help.

Contact us