Doctor of Philosophy in Fine Arts and Music

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy signifies that the holder has undertaken a substantial piece of original research, which has been conducted and reported by the holder under proper academic supervision and in a research environment for a prescribed period. The PhD thesis demonstrates authority in the candidate's field and shows evidence of command of knowledge in relevant fields. It shows that the candidate has a thorough grasp of the appropriate methodological techniques and an awareness of their limitations. The thesis also makes a distinct contribution to knowledge. Its contribution to knowledge rests on originality of approach and or interpretation of the findings and, in some cases, the discovery of new facts. The thesis demonstrates an ability to communicate research findings effectively in the professional arena and in an international context. It is a careful, rigorous and sustained piece of work demonstrating that a research 'apprenticeship' is complete and the holder is admitted to the community of scholars in the discipline. The duration of Doctor of Philosophy-Fine Arts and Music candidature is three years for full-time candidates, two six month extensions are allowed.

The PhD provides you with the opportunity to further develop your research skills, at the highest level, in your chosen discipline. You will develop skills in research, and develop understandings of contemporary artistic practice and theory. Completion of a PhD can be a pathway to a career as an academic, or professional researcher.

In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed:

• a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% in the final year subjects or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
• a masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent;

Applicants for all discipline areas must provide:

• referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years); and
• evidence of the endorsement of a prospective supervisor.

English language requirements:

TOEFL – you need a score from a minimum of 577+ including a score of at least 4.5 in the Test of Written English for a paper-based test. Or a score of at least 79 and scores of at least 21 for writing, 18 for speaking, 13 for reading, 13 for listening for an internet-based test.

IELTS – you need a score from a minimum of 6.5 or more in the Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with no bands less than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English – you need an overall score from a minimum between 58-64 inclusive and achieve no PTE communicative skills score below 50.

Cambridge English, Advanced/Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – you need a Cambridge English Score from a minimum 176 with no skill below 169.

Application closing dates: Semester 1: 31 October; Semester 2 - 30 April.