PhDs and other research degrees

Complete your research qualification with us and work with leading researchers. We offer postgraduate degrees in over 120 different subject areas.

Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s number one university for intensity of high-quality research (2018 Performance-Based Research Fund)—there’s no better place to gain your PhD or research degree.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) represents the highest level of academic qualification offered by the University. It is based on original and independent research carried out under academic supervision.

A PhD normally follows a Master’s or Honours degree, or other relevant experience.

All PhD candidates work under the direct supervision of leading researchers; generally at the University but sometimes at external research institutes. We also allow distance enrolment with prior approval—conditions apply.

You can study towards your PhD in any subject area that the University offers—or you can forge your own links between subjects with original interdisciplinary research.

The minimum time for completion of a PhD is three years of full-time study. Most candidates are full time, but part-time enrolment may be possible.

Professional doctorates

Professional doctorates are available only in the disciplines listed below. They have restricted entry.

The Education (EdD) and Health (DHlth, DNurs, DMid) doctorates are restricted to New Zealand citizens or permanent residents and require several years of professional practice. These doctorates are expected to be taken part time.

The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) requires either substantial performance or substantial composition experience. It can be taken part time or full time.

Students who do not meet these restricted categories should instead apply for a PhD in the appropriate discipline.

Master’s degrees

Find out what Master’s research degrees are available in your subject area.