PhD study
Conduct advanced original research and earn a PhD with the Wellington Faculty of Health.
The PhD thesis is a major piece of original research that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to carry out independent research and constitutes a significant and original contribution to knowledge or understanding of a field of study. As well as intelligence and an aptitude for research, the degree requires considerable dedication and tenacity.
The minimum period of registration before a PhD thesis can be submitted for examination is 36 months full-time (or equivalent).
Registering your interest and initial enquiries
Prospective PhD students with questions about the PhD in Health & Wellbeing or a PhD in Health Psychology can contact the School of Health PhD coordinator: Dr Ágnes Szabó
Entry requirements
All students applying for entry into our PhD programme should have:
- demonstrated academic merit at undergraduate and postgraduate level
- been awarded an Honours degree (or equivalent) and/or a Master’s degree in a health-related* discipline
- obtained a GPA of at least 6.0 (B+ average)
- demonstrated ability to do independent research
Acceptance is subject to staff availability for supervision, and appropriate resources and facilities. All applicants are strongly encouraged to make contact with potential supervisors before applying for entry.
*In exceptional cases, applicants without a background in Health may be considered but they are encouraged to check with the PhD coordinator before applying for entry.
International students may also be required to meet the University's English language requirements.
Additionally, students applying for entry into our PhD in Health Psychology programme should have:
- an undergraduate and/or postgraduate level degree in Psychology
- conducting research in health psychology. Thesis topic will require approval from the Director of the Health Psychology Program upon enrolment.
Application
There is a centralised admissions process for all PhD admissions through the Faculty of Graduate Research.
The deadlines for applying for admission are:
- 1 March
- 1 July
- 1 November.
For more information about the application process, please contact the Faculty of Graduate Research at fgr-enquiries@vuw.ac.nz.
For information about scholarships, please contact the scholarship office at: scholarships-office@vuw.ac.nz
Additional information
PhD students will be provisionally enrolled for the first 6–12 months of their candidature, during which time they will undergo orientation and other training, as well as write and defend their research proposal.