Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started...
The first step is to identify the topic that you might like to pursue; as part of the application process you will need to provide some details on your proposed research ideas to help us choose possible supervisors. You will need to take a look at the literature in your chosen field and start to write some initial ideas for your proposed area of research, in terms of the problem/research questions you might investigate, some of the relevant research literature in the area, and the proposed methodologies/methods you might like to pursue. This will give us a starting place for an initial conversation about how your project might best fit with current gaps in the research, as well as areas of staff expertise here in the Faculty. We aim to have a brief document (1-2 pages or more) that can be shared with potential supervisors as part of the application process.
We can offer HDR supervision on a full-time or part-time basis. You can study on-site in Australia or study at a distance, from any location in the world. Candidates work with their supervisory team to prepare for the endorsement of their proposed research and at all stages of the candidature process. You can begin the application process at any time. It is important to note that this process may take a number of weeks or months, depending on the availability of supervisors, amount of documentation to be gathered, etc.
Take a look at the Faculty of Arts and Education Courses page. This page provides details on the structure of the Higher Degree by Research Courses we offer, as well as important information about admission requirements, course fees and other study costs. You will need to gather relevant documents (e.g., transcripts) so that they are available as part of the application process, so it's important to review the online course brochure for the specific information we require. You must also indicate the alignment of your research with Charles Sturt University's Research Spheres expressed in the Charles Sturt University Research Narrative.
Take a look at the research expertise page to see who might be a good fit to supervise your work. This may also give you some ideas re: possible topics and/or ways to narrow things a bit. At the admissions stage, we require a minimum of two staff members to supervise – i.e., one to be Principal Supervisor and one to be a Co-Supervisor – but we can add other members to the team after you've started the program and once the proposal starts to take shape.
Once you have an idea of your research topic, possible supervisors and the general requirements for application and admission, please contact the Faculty of Arts and Education's Sub-Dean Graduate Studies, to discuss next steps. They will answer any questions you may have about the HDR process itself, as well as provide advice about the application and admissions process.
Once you and the Sub-Dean Graduate Studies have discussed your proposed application, you will be put in touch with your potential supervisors to discuss your work. You may be asked questions about your proposed research topic, your previous experience, your career plans, etc and you may be invited to attend an interview, either in person or online.
At this stage in the process, we will have all the information needed to process your application for admission. You need to follow the "Apply Now" button on the relevant HDR Online Course Brochure, which you can find on the Courses page. Once your application is received it will be reviewed by the relevant School, by the Faculty of Arts and Education and by the Research Office. You will then be notified of a decision and may then be offered a place in the program by the Admissions Office.
Information on Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarships can be found here on the University Research Office Scholarships page.
Information on fees for domestic candidates.
As a fee paying candidate, the Australian Government does not contribute to towards your study costs. You may be eligible for assistance under the Australian Government's FEE-HELP scheme.