Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is Auckland University of Technology’s highest qualification. The degree is undertaken by research only and leads to advanced academic and theoretical knowledge in a specialist area.

The PhD in  Philosophy at Auckland University of Technology  is suitable for students who want to pursue an academic or research career, or a senior position in the public or private sector. 

Doctoral studies present you with the opportunity to generate new ideas that can benefit business and society. You will make a significant original contribution to knowledge and understanding in your field of study and meet recognised international standards for your work.

Career opportunities

• The opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you gain through a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are extensive, and AUT PhD graduates move on to exciting careers both within and outside academia.

• Alternatively, your research topic may lead you to a position of expertise in your chosen field.

• The opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you gain through a PhD will be extensive, both in industry and academia.

Academic careers

• The research methods, writing and knowledge dissemination skills you gain through a PhD are an excellent grounding for the teaching and research requirements of an academic career.

• Many PhD graduates move on to postdoctoral research fellowships or lectureships as a pathway into academia.

Structure:

Stage 1

• You put together a proposal that critically reviews work done in your area of research. This requires a suitable research methodology and a timeframe for completion of the degree.

• Once you have completed your research proposal, you refine your design, collect data and conduct your research as appropriate.

• Data is collected and analysed and the results are published at international conferences. A journal publication is also encouraged at this point.

• The first step in the final stage of the PhD is finalising the data collection and analysis. You then write your PhD thesis and submit it to the supervisor for feedback. It could take two or three drafts before the thesis is ready for submission and examination.