Doctorate (PhD)
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded for high-level research, expecting candidates to contribute to knowledge in their chosen field. It offers three pathways: Traditional PhD, PhD by Publication, and PhD by Creative Project. Additionally, ACU collaborates internationally for a specialized PhD in Contemporary Humanism.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded for high-level research and, as such, it is expected that candidates will make a contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. A PhD may be undertaken by three different means:
Further detailed information regarding requirements for the submission of a PhD may be located in the Guidelines on the Preparation and Presentation of a Research or Professional Doctoral Thesis for Examination.
PhD (in Contemporary Humanism)
ACU, in partnership with Lumsa Universit��, Pontificia Universidad Cat��lica de Chile (PUC), Institut Catholique de Paris (ICP), Universidade Cat��lica Portuguesa (UCP) and Lyon Catholic University (UCLy), seeks to appoint one outstanding candidate to the PhD (in Contemporary Humanism). The program aims to develop knowledge and critical skills in reading and interpreting the historical, cultural, literary, philosophical and educational tradition in its making, and in its effects on the present, from the point of view of the category of "humanism".
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for Admission to the course applicants must evidence as per Section 5 of the Higher Degree Research Policy:
Meeting the eligibility requirements for admission is not in itself a guarantee of admission. The candidate's potential to undertake research, the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the availability of appropriate supervision and the referee's reports will all be taken into consideration (refer to section 6 of the Higher Degree Research Policy).
International applicants need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as published by the University (refer Appendix C of the Higher Degree Research Policy).
Disclaimer: The course entry requirements above are for 2026 Admission.
If applicants have an overseas qualification/s from an institution where English is not the standard language of instruction, they will need to meet ACU's English proficiency requirements, e.g Academic IELTS 6.5 (including individual scores of 6.0 for all tests). Refer to Appendix C of the Higher Degree Research Policy.
The eligibility criteria for admission into the Doctor of Philosophy are stipulated in the Higher Degree Research Policy, Eligibility For Admission To A Research Higher Degree.
The progress requirements of the Doctor of Philosophy are stipulated in the Higher Degree Research Policy, Pursuance of Candidature.
As an ACU graduate you have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen and a scholar. You embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You are empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded for high-level research and, as such, it is expected that candidates will make a contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. A PhD may be undertaken by three different means:
Further detailed information regarding requirements for the submission of a PhD may be located in the Guidelines on the Preparation and Presentation of a Research or Professional Doctoral Thesis for Examination.