CQUniversity Australia
4 years full-time, 8 years part-time
The Doctor of Philosophy (Industry) is a professional-practice research degree designed for industry professionals and experienced practitioners who want to advance their careers through high-level research expertise. Combining foundational research coursework with a dissertation project, plus choice of advanced coursework or industry placement, this flexible program prepares you for senior leadership and research-focused roles.
Applicants must meet specific entry requirements including relevant academic qualifications and industry or academic experience. English language proficiency requirements apply for international students. A preliminary research proposal is required as part of the application process. Security requirements must be met throughout your studies. Applications are accepted year-round, and potential supervisors may contact applicants to discuss proposed research topics.
The PhD (Industry) curriculum comprises multiple components tailored to your research area. In the first six months, you complete foundational research coursework covering research language, methodology, and expectations, mirroring the Graduate Certificate in Research. You then progress through research development activities and the confirmation milestone. Following candidature confirmation, you advance to research and thesis/dissertation activities. You have flexibility to choose between four advanced coursework units (in any disciplinary area at advanced level) or a three-month research-based industry placement to complement your research project and enhance professional expertise.
CQUniversity offers a vibrant research community with generous project funding, training and comprehensive financial support for Higher Degree by Research students. The institution provides robust support through cohort-style supervisory teams, academic guidance, generous access to research resources and conference funding, plus dedicated study support and research culture development through the School of Graduate Research. CQU's flexible delivery options across multiple locations and online platforms make advanced research education accessible to working professionals.
Graduates of the PhD (Industry) are positioned for senior and management-level positions within their current industry sector or advancement through promotion pathways in academic or public policy settings. The degree opens opportunities in entrepreneurship, consultancy, and professional practice areas. The combination of advanced research expertise and industry experience prepares graduates for leadership roles that require high-level analytical thinking and research-informed decision-making.
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