Doctor of Philosophy in Science (Geology and Physical Geography)

The PhD is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge.

The PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by a student, supervisor, head of school and the Board of the Graduate Research School. It may be undertaken in any school in the University. The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as the result of a new theory. The thesis demonstrates a student's ability to document and interpret results, formulate theories and discuss the results in light of the current literature to a high level of competence. Each student's PhD experience is different because each student undertakes a unique course tailored to their interests and needs. All students undertake research that is assessed in the form of a thesis. Students may also undertake taught courses, industry placements and other developmental activities. Many students choose to spend part of their candidature undertaking research interstate or overseas.

To be accepted an applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient background and experience in independent supervised research to successfully complete a PhD The normal requirement is for a bachelors degree with at least upper second class honours in an appropriate discipline However applications are also considered from 1 graduates of this University or equivalent who can satisfy the Board that they have had adequate research preparation since graduation
applicants who have previously undertaken work which in the Boards opinion is of a sufficiently high standard towards a research higher degree in this or another approved institution but have not submitted it for any degree and have had their research proposals approved by the Board and
applicants who have satisfactorily completed an acceptable preliminary program at this University or an approved institution and have had a research proposal approved by the Board

GCE O-level GCSE and IGCSE.
Minimum grade C or C6 in English English Language English First Language or English Literature.
Minimum grade A in IGCSE English as a Second Language with grade 1-One in Oral or Aural Communication.
Must be endorsed by CIE, OCR, Edexcel AQA or other UK authority independent and school-assessed O-levels are not sufficient.
TOEFL paper-based - 570 with a Test of Written English TWE of no less than 4.5.
Scholarship applicants require 580 with 45 in the Test of Spoken English TSE and 4.5 in the Test of Written English TWE.
IBT TOEFL Internet-based test score - 82 with 22 for writing, 20 for speaking, 20 for listening and 18 for reading.
Home Edition not accepted.
IELTS Academic - 6.5 no band lower than 6.0