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HDR student Bora stands against a background with circular graphics showing elements of her research.

Higher degrees by research (HDR) at UQ

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

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.

If you're creating your own project, make sure you check out our advice on how to choose 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).
Pierce Wilcox collaborative PhD

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 #37 in the world for scientific papers in 2025.

Queensland liveability

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

PhD candidate Dylan Berger with supervisor Felicity Meakins

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.
Edidiong collaborative PhD

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

Stories

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PhD student
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PhD entry requirements in Australia

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Collaborative PhD
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Collaborative PhDs: turning good research into breakthrough discoveries

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PhD day in the life
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What's it like doing a PhD?

A day in the life of a PhD student
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Stories

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Collaborative PhD
Uni life

Collaborative PhDs: turning good research into breakthrough discoveries

6-minute read
PhD day in the life
Uni life

What's it like doing a PhD?

A day in the life of a PhD student
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PhD with no master's degree
Study tips

Can you do a PhD without a master’s degree?

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Start your research journey here

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

UQ is collecting your personal information to enable you to interact with us. We'll handle your information in line with the Information Privacy Act 2009. How we use and disclose your personal information will depend on the nature of your interaction with us. For details, see our privacy notice.

Do you have questions?

The Graduate Research School can help.

Contact us