PhD and Research Masters

Are you passionate about education and inspiring future generations? Do you want to become an expert in your field? Studying a PhD or Research Masters through the School of Education can open up boundless opportunities for you to contribute to the educational future of your community.

More than 190 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students from more than 28 countries are supervised by world-leading scholars in our School. When studying with us, you’ll be encouraged to take your career further as a classroom teacher, school leader, researcher, or even contribute to the development of educational policy.

Snapshot of current research

Our current PhD and MPhil candidates in the School of Education are researching areas such as:

  • Physical activity and nutrition
  • Teachers and teaching
  • Research training and adaptive knowledge
  • Equity and education
  • Curriculum and pedagogical innovation
  • Comparative and international education
  • Early childhood education and care
  • Special and inclusive education

Models of Higher Degree by Research supervision

Our School utilises a range of supervisory models from personalised mentoring through to innovative cohort models that include school-based groups and multi-school networks. Higher degree students work on their projects in collaboration with University supervisors who provide expert coaching in your journey to produce new knowledge that impacts policy or practice.

Costs for Higher Degree by Research programs

Australian postgraduate research (Higher Degree by Research) students do not currently incur tuition fees or a HECS debt. International students, see our costs section.

Who can apply

Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Honours and Masters degrees aren’t essential to commence a Higher Degree by Research program for those with relevant experience.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, submit the Expression of Interest form which will be reviewed by the Deputy Head of School (Research).

Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate meeting the University's English proficiency policy.

How to apply

Step One – School of Education expression of interest

To enable the School of Education to determine your eligibility for one of our HDR programs and identify a potential supervisor, please complete the expression of interest form and email it to the school.

Please allow at least two weeks for a response.

Step Two – Higher Degree by Research application

If we are able to secure supervision based on your expression of interest, you will be guided to complete the official University of Newcastle application process.

Explore how to write a graduate research proposal.

What support does the School provide?

Your MPhil or PhD journey will be enriched through a close relationship with a team of dedicated supervisors. In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, HDR candidates are offered:

  • access to research funding support (Direct Research Cost [DRC] allowance , accessible post-confirmation of candidature, for costs related to the research project
  • a dedicated workspace and laptop
  • an extensive program of workshops, seminars and courses that will enhance your research skills, enable you to connect with other students, and provide timely support at key moments of your candidature
  • opportunities to share their research at regular School, College and University conferences
  • awards and prizes celebrating graduate research achievements and contributions to our research culture
  • professional learning workshops and opportunities to test and share ideas with fellow researchers