Apply for graduate research
Our world-leading researchers are available to supervise graduates on their way to becoming the next generation of research-qualified professionals.
Undertaking a research degree at VU will enhance your career with advanced skills in research, critical thinking and problem-solving.
Our completion rates are among the highest in Australia – with students benefitting from expert supervision and training to graduate as successful, qualified researchers.
How to apply for a research degree
You must contact a supervisor and receive an in-principle approval from that supervisor before you submit your application.
Step 3 has details on the process of contacting a prospective supervisor.
The signed HDR prospective supervisor form must be uploaded in your application.
Important dates
Find information on when to submit your application, depending on whether you are a domestic or international applicant, and discover dates that relate to both.
All applicants who are made an offer and accept must present in Melbourne by the stipulated enrolment date.
Application dates
Research Training Program (RTP) applications for Research Period 2, 2024 are now open. For more information about the program, visit the Australian Government's RTP frequently asked questions page.
Enrolment dates (all students)
Applicants who are made an offer and accept must present in Melbourne by the stipulated enrolment date:
- Master degrees and PhD (Integrated): 15 July 2024
- PhD: 22 July 2024.
Coursework start dates (all students)
Commencing students are required to complete compulsory coursework units aligned to the enrolled degree, unless Advanced Standing has been approved prior to enrolment.
Coursework units start dates:
- Master degrees and PhD (Integrated): 29 July 2024
- PhD: 12 August 2024.
Master and PhD (Integrated) coursework units are delivered in person at Footscray Park Campus (Melbourne). Classes are normally taught during business hours – refer to New HDR candidate information to view a sample copy of a coursework timetable.
PhD coursework units are taught in hybrid delivery mode to optimise flexibility and involve a weekend intensive on campus (Footscray Park) burst learning session. Several classes will be delivered in real-time online; both units conclude with an on campus PhD Coursework Conference.
Coursework units are delivered from 29 July – 16 October 2024.
Come research with us
Our research is focused on the health of the environment and communities. Exemplifying this approach is our commitment to an Indigenous research agenda of pursuing social justice outcomes through research within a framework of decolonisation. We work to enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, wellbeing and empowerment through research in:
- self-determination
- displacement and identity
- international activist connections
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge
- climate change.