phd in nursing western sydney university

Doctor of Philosophy (Health Science)

Course summary, course information.

Health & Medicine, Research

Course Code

4 years full-time or part-time equivalent

Admission, Key dates, and Fees

A range of admission options are available for students of all ages and academic backgrounds. The procedures governing admission are defined in UOW's Admissions Procedures , and the UOW College Admissions Policy .

For any specific advice or questions regarding an application, please contact the Future Students Team .

Most postgraduate research degrees are covered by the Federal Government's Research Training Program (RTP) . If you receive an offer with an RTP place, you do not need to pay the cost of tuition while you are studying as long as you are within your time limits for course completion.

* Session fees are for one session for the year shown. Total course tuition fees shown are indicative, and are based on normal course length and progression. These fees are subject to change from year to year. However, if you receive an offer to study at UOW, your fees will be fully confirmed at the time of your offer.

ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS

Tuition fees are reviewed annually: fees payable are dependent on the year of commencement and are subject to increase during the period of study. Overseas Health Cover: Overseas Health Cover (OSHC) must be purchased for the proposed duration of the student visa. For information regarding the OSHC fees applicable, please refer to the international fees website.

* Session fees are for one session for the year shown. Total course tuition fees shown are indicative, and are based on normal course length and progression. These fees are subject to change from year to year. The fees outlined in your Letter of Offer of Admission to the University are correct at the point of offer, but are indicative and subject to change without notice. The indicative total course tuition fee is an estimate, based on normal course length and progression and current course fees.

Admission Profile

This table shows the breakdown of the applicant background of the student group at UOW for this course. It provides data on students that commenced undergraduate study and continued study beyond the census date at UOW in 2023.

Applicant background

This table relates to all students selected on the basis of ATAR alone or ATAR in combination with adjustment factors. For more information on adjustment factors commonly available to applicants, see ‘ATAR-based admission’ .

ATAR profile of ATAR-based offers in 2023

More Information

For more information about UOW admission pathways, see UOW Admission Information.

Course Structure

(Current year structure - subject to change)

Why choose this course

Our Science, Medicine and Health faculty is research-intensive with dynamic and well-supported Higher Degree Research programs in Health Sciences, Medicine, Nursing, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Archaeology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Biofabrication and Electromaterials. Over the last five years, our researchers have secured research and innovation income worth over $130M on projects as diverse as; investigating the beginnings of human history in Australia; assessing and mitigating bushfire risks; improving the quality of care for people living with dementia; and investigating the fundamental processes of life, one molecule at a time, through single-molecule biophysics. In the most recent Excellence in Research for Australia ratings , we received the highest possible rating for its research quality ‘well above world standard’ in many individual disciplines, as well as in the overall field of Chemical Sciences.

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Academic Handbook

Current edition, graduate diploma in nursing (4723).

• Approved Abbreviation: GradDipNurs
• Western Sydney University Program Code: 4723
• AQF Level: 8

This program applies to students who commenced in Spring 2021 or later.

Students should follow the program structure for the session start date relevant to the year they commenced.

For Commencement Year 2017, please refer to: 4723.2 Graduate Diploma in Nursing

The aim of the Graduate Diploma in Nursing is to provide Registered Nurses with the theoretical knowledge and critical thinking skills to prepare them for advanced practice in the clinical setting. Specialisations available include clinical leadership, clinical teaching, aged care, primary health care or research studies. Graduates will be able to synthesise and apply advanced nursing concepts in order to lead nursing practice and optimise health outcomes. Students who successfully complete this program may transfer into the Master of Nursing.

Students may exit this program on completion of 40 credit points with a  4724 Graduate Certificate in Nursing

• Director of Academic Program - Rachel Gregory-Wilson

One year full-time or two years part-time.

Program Advice

Dr Diana Jefferies  

Prospective students should visit the following websites for general enquiries about this program.

Enquire about this program | Local Admission | International Admission |

Programs delivered through an agreement with another party

Candidature for admission to the Graduate Diploma in Nursing is based on the following requirements

Graduate Diploma in Nursing (80 credit points)

Registered Nurse (currently registered to practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Nursing and Midwifery), or eligibility for same, or certificate of registration of nursing, within the last five years, in their own country

Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) in any discipline OR Graduate Certificate in Nursing.

Graduate Diploma in Nursing (60 credit points)

Completion of an undergraduate degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) or Graduate Diploma, or higher in any discipline.

Two years full-time equivalent professional work experience as a registered nurse within the last five years.

Additional Information

Applicants seeking admission on the basis of work experience must support their application with a Statement of Service for all work experience listed on the application. 

Statement of Service form

Applications from Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of permanent resident visas must be made via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).  Use the links below to apply via UAC or Western Sydney University.  Applications made directly to Western Sydney do not have an application fee.

Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local and International applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website.

http://www.uac.edu.au/ https://westernsydney.uac.edu.au/ws/

Overseas qualifications must be deemed by the Australian Education International - National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) to be equivalent to Australian qualifications in order to be considered by UAC and Western Sydney University.

Program Structure

Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 80 credit points or 60 credit points depending on the Pathway the student is enrolled in, based on the admission requirements.

Students may complete the Graduate Diploma in Nursing (no specialisation) or may enrol in and complete one of three Specialisations. See individual links below for detailed program structure.

• Clinical Leadership
• Clinical Teaching
• Tuberculosis Management

Graduate Diploma in Nursing (no specialisation)

80 credit point 1 year pathway structure, 60 credit point 1 year pathway structure, graduate diploma in nursing (clinical leadership), 80 credit point 1 year pathway structure, graduate diploma in nursing (clinical teaching), graduate diploma in nursing (tuberculosis management), equivalent subjects.

The subjects listed below count towards completion of this program for students who passed these subjects in Autumn 2021 or earlier. 

NURS 7008 Capstone Experience in Health Care, replaced by NURS 7065 Capstone Experience in Health Care

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Approved Abbreviation: BN

Western Sydney University Course Code: 4692.1

AQF Level: 7

CRICOS Code: 050935E

This version of the course is available to new and continuing students. Students should follow the course structure for the course version relevant to the year they commenced. This version applies to students whose commencement year in the course was 2014 or later.

Commencement Year 2011 - 2013 - 4643.3 Bachelor of Nursing - Graduate Entry

This course prepares graduates for eligibility to apply for registration throughout Australia as beginning professional generalist registered nurses. The focus of the course is on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking and reflective practice in relation to the theory and practice of nursing in health and health breakdown across the lifespan. Using a primary health care framework students study application of physical and behavioural sciences to nursing; inquiry and evidence-based practice principles and utilisation within nursing; nursing care of individuals, families and groups from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan. The acquisition of nursing knowledge and skills occurs initially in campus-based simulated clinical practice settings and consolidation occurs as students undertake clinical placements in a variety of health care settings.

The Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry) is offered as a two year course beginning with an intensive, full-time unit of study that supports student transition into second year of the 4691 Bachelor Nursing program.

Prospective students should be aware that full disclosure of any issues of impairment or misconduct is a declaration requirement when applying for registration as a registered nurse. An English language skills registration standard is also applicable to all students applying for registration:

http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au

Study Mode Two years full time.

Advanced standing

Additional advanced standing is not granted.

Accreditation The Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry) has accreditation and approval from the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) which is a partner board of the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Authority (AHPRA). Course accreditation can be checked on their website. http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Accreditation.aspx. Please note: as from 1 July 2010 practitioners applying for registration as a nurse for the first time in Australia are required to demonstrate English language proficiency as specified by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). These requirements include: a) the IELTS examination (academic module) with a minimum score of 7 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing and speaking); or b) completion and an overall pass in the Occupational English Test (OET) with grades A or B only in each of the four components. For further details, refer to the website. Http://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/Registration-Standards.aspx

Inherent requirements

There are inherent requirements for this course that you must meet in order to complete your course and graduate. Make sure you read and understand the requirements for this course online.

Applicants must have successfully completed an (AEI-NOOSR equivalent) undergraduate degree, Graduate Diploma, Master’s degree, or higher, in biological sciences, health or behavioural science (completed within the last 10 years),

completed a three year post-secondary qualification leading to registration as a registered nurse (completed within the last 10 years).

Applications from Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of permanent resident visas must be made via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local and International applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website.

http://www.uac.edu.au/

International applicants must apply directly to Western Sydney University via the International Office.

International students applying to The University through the International Office can find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on their website.

International Office

Overseas qualifications must be deemed by the Australian Education International - National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) to be equivalent to Australian qualifications in order to be considered by UAC and Western Sydney University.

Special Requirements Prerequisites To be enrolled in Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry), students must comply with NSW Ministry of Health Special Requirements for clinical practicum. These include 1). National Police Check or a criminal record clearance card/letter; International students require a police check (with English translation) from their own country or any country they have lived in, as well as one from Australia; 2). Meet NSW Ministry of Health verification requirements with regard to immunisation (a completed vaccination card with serology results); 3). NSW Health Code of Conduct signed; 4). Student Undertaking Placement/Declaration signed; 5). Students are required to complete a Working with Children Check leading to the issuance of a clearance number under the category of volunteer. Students will need to: i. Access the Commission for Children and Young People website and complete an online application form to generate an application number. ii. Present an application number and identification to a NSW Motor Registry or Government Access Centre prior to issuance by mail of a Working with Children Check number. iii. Submit the letter with a valid Working with Children Check number to Student Central where the document is TRIMMED and recorded in Callista as a Special Requirement; and 6). A current approved firstaid certificate. All requirements must be completed before eligible for clinical placement.

Course Structure

Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 170 credit points including the units listed in the recommended sequence below.

Summer B session

Autumn session

Quarter 2 session

Spring session

Additional Core Unit for Students with an Exceptional Study Pattern

To ensure currency of skill base, it is an accreditation requirement that students satisfactorily complete a minimum four week clinical practicum in the final session of their pre-registration Nursing program. Students within the Bachelor of Nursing Graduate Entry (BNGE) who vary their study sequence significantly from the normal progression may be required to study the additional unit listed below and should discuss this with the BNGE Academic Course Advisor (ACA).

Professional Practice Experience

The Professional Practice Experience is the foundation for student learning in the course. It consists of two major learning contexts for students: professional practice and simulation. Professional practice in the health care sector may take place in any level of the health service appropriate to the focus for the specific Professional Practice Experience unit, for example aged care facilities, hospitals, GP practices, community health teams. This environment is essential to provide students with the complexity of the nursing experience, the ability to apply learning in situations involving ill persons, and socialises students into the work domain.

Simulation is where aspects of the professional practice environment, such as a hospital ward or patient, are artificially created to enable students to learn in a safe, non-threatening environment. Clinical practice units, simulated professional practice environments, will be used that allow students to undertake learning activities, such as administering medications and oxygen therapy. The School has a wide range of simulation equipment and dedicated high fidelity simulation rooms on each campus.

The percentage of time spent by students in each context will vary, depending on the stage of the student in the course, the theoretical knowledge acquisition, and ANMC competency development. For example at the beginning of the course more hours will be spent in the simulation context than in the health care sector. As the course progresses there is a scaling up of hours spent in the health care sector with fewer hours being spent in the simulation context. In the final session of third year a significant proportion of knowledge and skills consolidation will occur primarily in a clinical practice environment.

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The University of Sydney - Sydney Nursing School Handbook 2018

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• Master of Philosophy

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Admission requirements Supervision Time limits

Doctor of Philosophy Our research and current research projects

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is a University degree governed by Resolutions set down by the Academic Board. Candidates should be familiar with the Academic Board documents:

• University of Sydney (Higher Degree by Research) Rule 2011 , and
• Thesis and Examination of Higher Degree by Research Policy 2015 .

The most recent versions of these rules are found the Policy Register . The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is a research degree awarded for a thesis considered to be a substantial and original contribution to knowledge. The successful completion of some coursework to support the development of research skills and improve understanding of research methods may be required as part of candidature but in no case does it constitute a major component of the degree.

A preliminary research proposal outlining the topic or area of study, the likely research method and the argument for conducting the proposed research will need to be attached to the application, however, we strongly recommend that you discuss the proposed research project with an academic member of staff before making your application. Guidance on preparing a research proposal or finding a research supervisor may also be obtained by contacting the Postgraduate Coordinator at Sydney Nursing School.

PhD students are expected to work independently with guidance from at least two academic supervisors. Students will be required to present their work to colleagues and peers, a minimum of three times during their candidature, in general addressing the key candidature milestones of scoping and developing the project, refining the methodology and method, and communicating the findings of their research.

All PhD students are expected to communicate regularly with their agreed research supervisors and attend the research workshops and seminars that are held at regular intervals during each year and to participate in the annual Sydney Nursing School Research Week and to actively participate in an annual progress review and interview process.

Admission requirements

Applicants should hold one of the following to be eligible for an offer of enrolment: - a bachelor's degree with first or upper-second-class honours, OR - a research master’s degree OR - a master's coursework degree with a significant research component, and considerable work-related research experience &/or research publications OR - an advanced learning master’s degree (60 credit points) awarded by Sydney Nursing School, having achieved within the degree a minimum of a credit level for 12 credit points of research training related coursework and a minimum of a distinction level for the 12 credit point Capstone (Research) unit of study.

Time limits

Candidates can proceed on a full- or part-time basis. The normal maximum length of candidature would be three to four years for full-time students and six to eight years for part –time students.

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Bachelor of Nursing (Graduate Entry)

Key details, about this course, study locations, liverpool city, parramatta south, campbelltown.

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Bachelor of Nursing: Course Requirements and Professional Accreditation.

WSU Online's Bachelor of Nursing prepares graduates for eligibility to apply for registration throughout Australia as a registered nurse. Our program reflects contemporary practices in nursing, health and education, and responds to emerging trends.

The focus of the Bachelor of Nursing is on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking and reflective practice in relation to the theory and practice of nursing in health and health breakdown across the lifespan. Using a primary health care framework, students study the application of physical and behavioural sciences to nursing; inquiry and evidence-based practice principles and utilisation within nursing; nursing care of individuals, families and groups from diverse backgrounds across the lifespan. The acquisition of nursing knowledge and skills occurs initially in campus-based simulated clinical practice settings and consolidation occurs as students undertake clinical placements in a variety of health care settings.

Professional accreditation.

The Bachelor of Nursing is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Course accreditation can be checked on their  website.

Professional standards and conduct.

Please ensure that you are familiar with the policies available on the Western Sydney University website. In addition, nurses and midwives must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), and meet the NMBA’s professional standards in order to practice in Australia.

Special Requirements.

To enrol in the Bachelor of Nursing, students must meet Western Sydney University course requirements. To attend a health-related placement in this course, Special Legislative Requirements will be assessed from enrolment. Please see the  Bachelor of Nursing handbook  for more information.

Registration as a Nurse.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has a register of students enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing for the duration of their study. Western Sydney University as the education provider will provide your details directly to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) for registration.  

On successful completion of an accredited course, you will be eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse (Division 1) General with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Prospective students should be aware that full disclosure of any issues of impairment or misconduct is a declaration requirement when applying for registration as a registered nurse.

English language proficiency declaration.

The same English language skill proficiency requirement for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia is applicable to all students applying for enrolment in the course. Our Bachelor of Nursing program’s guiding principle is safety of the public and to prepare graduates for safe and ethical nursing practice. Our program reflects contemporary practices in nursing, health and education, and responds to emerging trends based on research, technology and other forms of evidence which includes principles of intraprofessional and interprofessional learning and practice, principles of diversity, culture, inclusion and cultural safety for all people and student knowledge and skills in pharmacotherapeutics and quality use of medicines. All applicants for the Bachelor of Nursing are required to sign a declaration and provide evidence of demonstrating English language competency.

English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements.

All applicants for the Bachelor of Nursing are required to sign a declaration and provide evidence of demonstrating English language competency in one of the following ways:

• English is your primary language and you have attended and satisfactorily completed at least six years of primary and secondary education taught and assessed solely in English in a recognised country, including at least two years between years 7 and 12. Recognised country means one of the following countries: Australia; Canada; New Zealand; Republic of Ireland; South Africa; United Kingdom; United States of America, or
• You currently hold registration as an Enrolled Nurse (Division 2), or Registered Nurse (Division 1) or Registered Midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), or

If you do not satisfy either of the above, you will need to undertake an English language proficiency assessment.

English Language Proficiency Assessment.

If you do not satisfy either of the above, you will need to undertake an English language proficiency assessment. English test results remain valid for no more than two years between final examination date and the date of commencement of study.

• IELTS (academic module). We only accept test results from one test sitting, or a maximum of two test sittings in a six-month period only if
• you achieve a minimum overall score of 7 in each sitting, and you achieve a minimum score of 7 in each component across the two sittings, and
• no score in any component of the test is below 6.5
• We will only accept test results from one test sitting, or a maximum of two test sittings in a six-month period only if
• you are tested in all four components in each sitting, and
• you achieve a minimum score of 8 in each component across the two sittings, and
• no score in any component of the test is below C
• PTE Academic. We will only accept test results from one test sitting, or a maximum of two test sittings in a six-month period only if
• a minimum overall score of 65 is achieved in each sitting, and
• you achieve a minimum score of 65 in each of the communicative skills across the two sittings,
• and no score in any of the communicative skills is below 58
• TOEFL iBt. We will only accept test results from one test sitting, or a maximum of two test sittings in a six-month period only if
• a minimum total score of 94 is achieved in each sitting, and
• you achieve a minimum score of 24 for listening, 24 for reading, 27 for writing and 23 for speaking across the two sittings, and
• no score in any of the sections is below 20 for listening, 19 for reading, 24 for writing and 20 for speaking

NOTE: Students who were not born in any of the above recognised countries need to be aware of the English language requirements of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia that need to be demonstrated prior to registration. Please contact the  Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia  for information on this requirement.

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Foundation Studies Program in Health Science and Nursing

Key information.

37 WEEKS (2 Terms)

55 WEEKS (3 Terms)

March / July / October

CRICOS Code

2 Terms CRICOS: 0100889

3 Terms CRICOS: 0100886

A$24,000* – (2 Terms)

A$35,500* – (3 Terms)

*Fees indicative for 2024

Course Overview

Foundation Studies Program in Health Science and Nursing is a university entry program designed for international students who have completed a minimum of year 11 or its equivalent. The course brings together a comprehensive introduction to health science, personal development, nursing fundamentals and interpersonal skills, and gets you on-track to your career in the health sector.

Articulation to Western Sydney University

Students must:.

• Complete all the units within their chosen sequence
• Achieve a minimum GPA. Please check your Letter of Offer for details.

These criteria are subject to change.

Meeting these criteria will qualify students for entry into the first year of:

• Bachelor of Architectural Design
• Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
• Bachelor of Construction Technology
• Bachelor of Building Design Management
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Accounting
• Bachelor of Creative Industries
• Bachelor of Criminal and Community Justice
•   Bachelor of Criminology
• Bachelor of Cyber Security and Behaviour
• Bachelor of Design and Technology
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering Science
• Bachelor of Entrepreneurship (Game Design & Simulation)
• Bachelor of Humanitarian & Development Studies
• Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology
• Bachelor of Information Systems
• Bachelor of Industrial Design
• Bachelor of Languages and Linguistics
• Bachelor of Nursing
• Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
• Bachelor of Planning (Pathway to Master of Urban Management and Planning)
• Bachelor of Policing
• Bachelor of Screen Media (Arts & Production)
• Bachelor of Speech Pathology
• Bachelor of Sport Development
• Bachelor of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Potential Careers

Foundation studies program in health science and nursing may open the door to a career as a:.

• Personal Trainer
• Physiotherapist
• Chiropractor
• Aged-care worker

Additional Information

More information about the  Foundation Studies in Health Science & Nursing .

Click here to view the student guide for Foundation Studies programs.

Western Sydney University International College delivers Extended Foundation Studies Program in Health Science/Nursing (CRICOS Course Code 0100886) and Standard Foundation Studies Program in Health Science/Nursing (CRICOS Course Code 0100889) under its CRICOS Provider Code 03663C.

The Standard and Extended Foundation programs meet the requirements for Foundation Programs which have been registered on CRICOS for delivery in Australia to overseas students. They provide an academic preparation for seeking entry to first year undergraduate study or its equivalent.

Intellectual Property for some courses including material may be owned by Western Sydney University and are used by Western Sydney University International College in accordance with Licence Agreement.

This course is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), and is authorised to be offered to international  students studying on an international student visa, under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Further information can be found at https://www.teqsa.gov.au/provider/western-sydney-university-international-college-pty-ltd

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Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNSW Science will lead you to make a new and original contribution to your chosen scientific specialisation. The PhD is a program of specialist expert knowledge which will open doors to academic, research and professional roles nationally and internationally. 

Entry requirements 

The minimum entry requirement for admission to a PhD includes: 

• an appropriate UNSW bachelor degree with upper second-class honours; or 
• a completed Masters by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high-quality research thesis; or 
• an equivalent qualification from a tertiary institution as determined by the Faculty Higher Degree Committee (HDC). 

The minimum requirement for a UNSW scholarship with admission to a PhD include: 

• a four-year bachelor degree with honours class from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification experience -this qualification must be awarded in a field relevant to the proposed area of research. 

English requirements  

All applicants must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission: UNSW English Language Requirements.

Domestic students: The Australian Government's Research Training Scheme (RTS) provides Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) candidates with an exemption from tuition fees for the duration of their PhD by research for a maximum period of four years' full-time equivalent study. Domestic students are liable for the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

International students: Full details can be found on the GRS Fees and Costs page for International Postgraduate Research Candidates. Note that international students are exempt from the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

Scholarship opportunities

We assist postgraduate researchers with a range of prestigious scholarships with annual stipends, living allowances, tuition fee costs, travel scholarships and supplements. Our scholarships support both current and new postgraduate research candidates.  

Our research areas

Environmental sciences and climate

Fundamental sciences 

Materials sciences

Health sciences

Combined phd/master of psychology programs.

PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical)

PhD/Master of Psychology (Forensic)

Postgraduate research degrees

Our research is driven by the big picture. The University of Sydney is home to leading researchers who are finding solutions to the world's most pressing issues by changing the way they look at them. 

We are home to 90 world‑renowned multidisciplinary research and teaching centres that tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, such as health, climate change and food security. These centres include the Charles Perkins Centre, the Brain and Mind Centre ,  The University of Sydney Nano Institute , the Sydney Policy Lab , the Sydney Environment Institute , and the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre .

Our interdisciplinary approach means that students are part of a community of scholars that unites experts in fields as diverse as medicine, arts, social sciences, engineering, information technologies and science. 

As a researcher at Sydney, you'll work alongside some of the world's brightest and most accomplished academics. You can access high-calibre facilities and unique international partnerships with top-ranked institutions, including Stanford, UCLA, the University of Edinburgh, Utrecht University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Types of research degrees

Master's degree by research.

A master's degree by research at Sydney:

• is the second-highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• can be a gateway to study at a PhD level
• is usually one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time*
• is awarded based on a supervised thesis, which makes a substantial contribution to the knowledge of the subject concerned.

*Part-time is not available to international student visa holders.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD at Sydney:

• is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• comprises of independent research and writing on an approved topic toward a thesis for examination
• may be undertaken in all faculties and divisions, or across disciplines
• is usually 3.5 years of full-time or seven years of part-time* study.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

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A professional doctorate at Sydney:

• allows candidates to pursue rigorous scholarship alongside advancing their practice in many fields
• is usually three to four years of full-time or six to eight years of part-time* study.

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Grow professionally and academically through a paid 3-6 month internship with an industry partner as you complete your degree.

The University of Sydney has partnered with  Australian Postgraduate Research Intern (APR.Intern)  to provide domestic and international HDR students with internship opportunities  in a range of sectors and disciplines.

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• Develop competencies that will contribute to your research
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HDR coursework is mandatory for some of our research degrees. HDR coursework adds to your researcher toolkit so you can graduate with a robust set of skills, for a career in academia or industry.

Your faculty may elect to define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree, or define any other studies as required by the progress evaluation panel of the research project. Refer to the relevant course in the  handbook .  

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Getting started, do i need prior research experience.

Yes, all HDR courses require prior research experience. This is because HDR courses are largely self-driven, requiring pre-requisite research, time and project management skills.

If I have no prior research experience how can I get started?

If you do not have any previous research experience, there are ways to gain what you need. Both the one-year honours and masters by coursework degrees containing substantial research components are great pathways into research. These courses will allow you to gain the research skills necessary to apply for the PhD.

What is the difference between a Master of Philosophy/Research and a PhD?

The PhD is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. The PhD is usually three years full-time or six years part-time.

The Master of Philosophy/Research is usually one to two years full-time or four years part-time (part-time is available to domestic students only). A PhD thesis is generally around 80,000 words while a master’s thesis is 50,000 words.

How do I find a supervisor?

To browse through the profiles of our researchers and learn about their current and past research, please refer to Find a Researcher . Here, you will also be able to access the publications lists and contact details of our researchers. 

My research idea crosses two disciplines – is this a problem?

No. Interdisciplinary research is highly regarded in the world of academia and working across disciplines can be very beneficial in developing and demonstrating different analytical skills. Working on research from two perspectives can also offer insight that you would not be able to achieve from one discipline perspective.

What are the English language requirements for a PhD?

Please check your  course page  for the requirements of each course. Generally, the English requirements are between 6.0 to 7.0 IELTS overall or equivalent in other accepted English proficiency tests.

How much do HDR courses cost?

There are no course fees for domestic students – fees are covered by the government Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset. However, fees apply to international students. Please refer to the  course page  for fee details.

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It depends on your degree. Your faculty may define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree. Where this is not the case, you may still have the opportunity to complete units of study that you find useful to support your learning and research. 

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It is possible for students to move to the PhD after the first year of study, if you have made satisfactory progress and if the transfer is approved by your Faculty. It is important to inform your supervisor of your plans early so that you can work on a timeline together to achieve this goal.

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There are sometimes opportunities for PhD candidates to engage in paid employment at the University, but this is not guaranteed and is dependent on the Faculty/Department. If opportunities do arise, they may be in the form of teaching, marking, acting as a research assistant, or other roles.

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About western.

Cyber Incident

On 21 May 2024, Western Sydney University notified individuals impacted by unauthorised access to its IT network. The intrusion was identified by the University in January 2024 and quickly shut down. The University has been investigating the impact of the unauthorised access and investing in additional remediation measures. Since January 2024, the University undertook its due diligence to understand the nature, scope and scale of the incident, the number of individuals impacted, and to protect against further harm. This was also done in accordance with the University’s legal obligations. The investigation has indicated that the earliest known unauthorised access to the University’s Microsoft Office 365 environment was on 17 May 2023 and included access to some email accounts and SharePoint files. Investigations also indicate that the University’s Solar Car Laboratory infrastructure may have been used as part of the incident. Monitoring and scanning indicates that the preventative measures taken as a part of the incident response have successfully prevented any further unauthorised access. The University is working with a range of authorities, including NSW Police whose investigation is ongoing. The University has also been in ongoing contact with the NSW Information and Privacy Commission. Overall, approximately 7,500 individuals have received notifications either by telephone call, email, or both. The University is continuing to investigate the incident and if further persons are affected by the unauthorised access to the University IT network, they will be notified. Importantly, there have been no threats received by the University to disclose any of the private information which was accessed, and the University has not received any demands in exchange for maintaining privacy. In order to protect University staff, students and stakeholders, the University has sought and been granted an injunction from the NSW Supreme Court to prevent access, use, transmission and publication of any data that was the subject of the incident. The University unreservedly apologises for this incident and its impact on our community. It is deeply regrettable and we are committed to transparently rectifying the matter. We appreciate that this may be upsetting, and we are here to support you as we work through this together. We have established a dedicated phone line and this website to answer any questions you might have. The phone line details are as follows: 02 9174 6942 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm AEST).

Frequently Asked Questions

Western Sydney University has notified approximately 7,500 individuals impacted by unauthorised access to its IT network. The intrusion was identified by the University in January 2024 and quickly shut down. The University has been investigating the impact of the unauthorised access and investing in additional remediation measures. Since January 2024, the University undertook its due diligence to understand the nature, scope and scale of the incident, the number of individuals impacted, and to protect against further harm. This was also done in accordance with the University’s legal obligations. The investigation has indicated that the earliest known unauthorised access to the University’s Microsoft Office 365 environment was on 17 May 2023 and included access to some email accounts and SharePoint files. Monitoring and scanning indicates that the preventative measures, taken as a part of the incident response, have successfully prevented any further unauthorised access.

Since identifying the issue, the University has been investigating the impact of the unauthorised access and investing in additional remediation measures. The University engaged two cyber security firms, CrowdStrike and CyberCX, to assist. They were asked to examine the extent of the breach and to advise on improvements to remediate and protect the network. These investigations remain ongoing. We have made additional changes to the network to improve its robustness and protect the student and staff information we are required to hold. Monitoring and scanning indicates that the preventative measures, taken as a part of the incident response, have successfully prevented any further unauthorised access. The University is working with a range of authorities, including NSW Police whose investigation is ongoing. The University has also been in ongoing contact with the NSW Information and Privacy Commission.

This incident is the subject of an ongoing NSW Police investigation. It is a complex investigation which will take time. The University is continuing to investigate the incident and if further persons are affected by the unauthorised access to the University IT network, they will be notified. We are grateful to our cyber teams and external cyber security experts who are working to undertake remediation of our network and to support affected parties.

Approximately 7,500 individuals have received notifications.

The University engaged two cyber security firms, CrowdStrike and CyberCX, to assist. They were asked to examine the extent of the breach and to advise on improvements to remediate and protect the network. These investigations remain ongoing. We have made additional changes to the network to improve its robustness and protect the student and staff information we are required to hold. Monitoring and scanning indicates that the preventative measures taken, as a part of the incident response, have successfully prevented any further unauthorised access. In order to protect University staff, students and stakeholders, the University has sought and been granted an injunction from the NSW Supreme Court to prevent access, use, transmission and publication of any data that was the subject of the incident.

The core operations of the University have not been impacted.

If you are among those affected being contacted on 21 May, you will have received an official notification from the University either by telephone call, email, or both.

The University has a number of supports in place for those impacted by this incident, including:

• Dedicated phone line: A dedicated phone line has been established to give you specific advice about your situation: 02 9174 6942 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm AEST)
• IDCARE: The University has engaged IDCARE, Australia’s national identity and cyber support service, to provide advice and support to those impacted, free of charge. If you have been impacted, you will have been given their phone number and reference number.

We understand this incident is concerning, and we apologise for the impact it is having on our community. Please call 02 9174 6942 to speak with our dedicated team who can direct you to the most appropriate support.

If you have additional questions, please call 02 9174 6942 to speak with our dedicated team who can direct you to the most appropriate support.

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Krill Oil for Knee Osteoarthritis : A Randomized Clinical Trial

• 1 Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
• 2 School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• 3 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
• 4 The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Woodville, South Australia, Australia
• 5 Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
• 6 The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute and Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
• 7 Department of Rheumatology, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
• 8 Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
• Review Diagnosis and Treatment of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis Jeffrey N. Katz, MD, MSc; Kaetlyn R. Arant, BA; Richard F. Loeser, MD JAMA

Question   In people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis present on magnetic resonance imaging, does krill oil supplementation, compared with placebo, improve knee pain?

Findings   In this randomized clinical trial that included 262 adults, compared with placebo, 2 g/d of krill oil supplementation did not improve knee pain as measured on a visual analog scale (range, 0-100, with 0 indicating least pain) (mean difference, 0.30; 95% CI, −6.9 to 6.4; P  = .94) over 24 weeks.

Meaning   This study does not support 2 g/d of krill oil supplementation for improving knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis.

Importance   Knee osteoarthritis is disabling, with few effective treatments. Preliminary evidence suggested that krill oil supplementation improved knee pain, but effects on knee osteoarthritis remain unclear.

Objective   To evaluate efficacy of krill oil supplementation, compared with placebo, on knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis.

Design, Setting, and Participants   Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 5 Australian cities. Participants with clinical knee osteoarthritis, significant knee pain, and effusion-synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging were enrolled from December 2016 to June 2019; final follow-up occurred on February 7, 2020.

Interventions   Participants were randomized to 2 g/d of krill oil (n = 130) or matching placebo (n = 132) for 24 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures   The primary outcome was change in knee pain as assessed by visual analog scale (range, 0-100; 0 indicating least pain; minimum clinically important improvement = 15) over 24 weeks.

Results   Of 262 participants randomized (mean age, 61.6 [SD, 9.6] years; 53% women), 222 (85%) completed the trial. Krill oil did not improve knee pain compared with placebo (mean change in VAS score, −19.9 [krill oil] vs −20.2 [placebo]; between-group mean difference, −0.3; 95% CI, −6.9 to 6.4) over 24 weeks. One or more adverse events was reported by 51% in the krill oil group (67/130) and by 54% in the placebo group (71/132). The most common adverse events were musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, which occurred 32 times in the krill oil group and 42 times in the placebo group, including knee pain (n = 10 with krill oil; n = 9 with placebo), lower extremity pain (n = 1 with krill oil; n = 5 with placebo), and hip pain (n = 3 with krill oil; n = 2 with placebo).

Conclusions and Relevance   Among people with knee osteoarthritis who have significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging, 2 g/d of daily krill oil supplementation did not improve knee pain over 24 weeks compared with placebo. These findings do not support krill oil for treating knee pain in this population.

Trial Registration   Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Identifier: ACTRN12616000726459 ; Universal Trial Number: U1111-1181-7087

Read More About

Laslett LL , Scheepers LEJM , Antony B, et al. Krill Oil for Knee Osteoarthritis : A Randomized Clinical Trial . JAMA. Published online May 22, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.6063

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© 2024

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Medical students develop course to train peers in trauma-informed care

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From left: Michael Lamb, director of surgical education and course instructor; Gaby Cordero, who took the course in her fourth year of medical school; and course developers Katherine Foote, Pia Corujo Avila and Sydney Johnson, all Jacobs School students. Photo: Sandra Kicman

By ELLEN GOLDBAUM

Published May 20, 2024

UB medical students working with community anti-violence groups in Buffalo have developed an elective course on “Trauma surgery and trauma-informed care.”

The purpose is to train medical students, particularly those interested in surgery, in trauma-informed care in Buffalo’s Level 1 Adult Trauma Center at the Erie County Medical Center (ECMC).

Critical partners are Buffalo’s two anti-violence organizations — Buffalo SNUG (Should Never Use Guns) and Buffalo Rising Against Violence (BRAVE) Trauma Recovery Center — housed within ECMC. BRAVE is Western New York’s only Trauma Recovery Center, having attained that distinction from the National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers late last year.

Michael Lamb, director of surgical education in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB and instructor for the elective, explains how the course works.

“Students spend half their time working on the trauma service at ECMC alongside attendings and residents, and the other half with BRAVE and SNUG,” he says. “The students serve as navigators for trauma patients and their families, offering support and advocacy during their hospital stay, clinical follow-ups and home visits.

“Immersion with BRAVE and SNUG offers these medical students not only longitudinal engagement with this extraordinary team of social workers, psychologists, case managers and credible messengers … but a great deal of time with patients and their families,” Lamb adds.

Bridging two worlds

“The whole goal is to bridge two worlds that usually don’t collide,” says Gaby Cordero, who graduated last month from the Jacobs School and was the first person to take the elective.

The idea to create a trauma-informed curriculum developed from conversations between Jacobs School students Pia Corujo Avila, Katherine Foote and Sydney Johnson, all of whom had been awarded the Department of Surgery’s summer diversity research fellowship for underrepresented students in 2022.

That year, Buffalo was in the midst of a significant rise in the number of shootings; it was also the year that 10 Black people were killed in the May 14 racist massacre at the Jefferson Avenue Tops market.

The purpose of the fellowships is to give underrepresented students interested in surgery early access to the operating room under the guidance of experienced attending physicians while also providing them with opportunities to do research on obstacles to care. 

Community-based research

The only requirement for the research component was that it align with the principles of community-based participatory research, where the community collaborates as a full partner in deciding what to study and how.

The students decided their project would involve research into community violence and the resulting trauma experienced by many patients and their families.  

“As physicians , we are able to play a part in the medical care of patients who may be victims of violence,” says Cordero, “then we lose touch with what may happen when they go back home. Working with BRAVE/SNUG allows us to connect with our patients beyond the operating room, and the hope is to begin to understand the experiences of the community we are serving.”

The students note their medical school classes do feature patients who share their perspectives.

However, Cordero notes, “With this elective, you see things come full circle that in many ways you didn’t before.”

They began their work by connecting with community organizers, pastors, local leaders and neighborhood residents. They spent time listening to those who had been victims of gun violence. They did this through their close partnerships with BRAVE and SNUG, which provide survivors with the tools and connections to prevent re-victimization or further perpetration of violence.

“We are committed to removing barriers to care and providing services that treat the whole person, not just their physical injuries,” says Paula Kovanic-Spiro, director of the BRAVE Trauma Recovery Center who also serves as SNUG site administrator. She notes this work would not be possible without the support of New York State, ECMC and other local partners.

“We are honored to support the talented Jacobs School students who developed this course and look forward to further advancing the importance of trauma-informed care by tomorrow’s doctors,” she adds.

Voices of victims of violence

“These medical students, having spoken with so many victims and families, and having themselves, I think, too often experienced what it’s like to be discounted, were deeply committed to including the voices of those who have experienced violence,” says Lamb, an environmental psychologist.

Cordero explains how she connected with one patient who had a penetrating wound. “I got to go in to see him with the BRAVE/SNUG team and the surgical residents,” she says. “The patient already knew me because I had just cleaned his wound. I asked him if he felt safe going back home and told him about resources. It changes the trajectory. It’s like finding a middle ground between the social workers and the medical team, to better understand what people need.”

Finding that middle ground is exactly the goal, says Johnson, a founder of the course.

“You want to treat the whole person,” says Johnson, who began working on the elective while recovering from a stroke, an experience that provided her with a unique perspective on the patient experience.

“As the surgeon, the only time you may see the patient is in the OR,” she says. “You need a bit more humanity. When you understand the world the patient comes from, the injury that brought them to the hospital and what they are going home to, you can be more proactive in their care. When you, the provider, are able to take all of this into consideration, the patient will have better outcomes.”

For Corujo Avila, that understanding is critical. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she says gun violence is a serious problem there, too, especially in urban areas.

“There’s a big Puerto Rican community in Buffalo, too,” she says, “and they are also victims of gun violence who end up in the trauma bay here. Sometimes they don’t speak English. These communities are suffering. I feel like I’m helping my community here.”

Foote’s motivation in developing the course was deeply personal. When she was 7 years old, her father was a victim of gun violence.

“He made it to the hospital, but he didn’t make it out,” she says. “They did everything they could, but they could not save him. As traumatic as it was for my family, I am honored to be part of these survivors’ recovery. It is very important to me. My co-founders and I recognized a need to provide additional support during a difficult time of their lives. I look forward to the positive impact we will have on their journey to recovery.”