Which research degree is right for you?
Compare research degree options and find the pathway that best matches your goals, interests and preferred way of studying.
Compare research degrees
| Option | Best for | Duration | Open to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master’s by Research | Graduates looking to deepen expertise, develop research skills or prepare for a PhD | 2 years full time (4 years part time) | Domestic and international students |
| PhD | People wanting to conduct original research, solve complex problems and become experts in their field | 4 years full time (8 years part time) | Domestic and international students |
| Collaborative Doctoral Research Degree Program | Students seeking international research experience and joint supervision with a partner university | Typically 4 years full time | Eligible UTS and partner university PhD students |
| PhD by Distance | International students wanting to complete a PhD remotely without relocating to Australia | 4 years full time (8 years part time) | International students only |
| Visiting Research Student Program | Current research students wanting short-term access to UTS expertise, facilities and collaborations | Flexible | International students enrolled at another university |
Find your research pathway
| I want to... | Recommended pathway |
|---|---|
| Conduct original research | PhD |
| Complete a shorter research degree | Master’s by Research |
| Work on research challenges with industry partners | Industry PhD |
| Make our world better | Social Impact PhD |
| Study remotely | PhD by distance |
| Build a startup or commercialise research | Entrepreneurial PhD |
| Access international research and collaboration opportunities | Global PhD |
Explore your research degree options
From a Master’s by Research to a PhD, discover the pathway that aligns with your research ambitions.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)
Best for: Students wanting to conduct original research and become experts in their field.
Duration: 4 years full time.
Outcome: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Master’s by Research
Best for: Students wanting advanced research training before a PhD or research-focused career.
Duration: 2 years full time.
Outcome: Master’s degree.
Collaborative Doctoral Research Degree Program
Best for: Students wanting international research experience, joint supervision and collaboration with a partner university.
Duration: 4 years full time.
Outcome: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) awarded by UTS and a partner university.
Visiting Research Student Program
Best for: International students seeking short-term research experience and collaboration opportunities at UTS.
Duration: Flexible.
Outcome: International research experience and professional networks (no UTS degree awarded).
Explore
Want more information?
Get in touch with the Graduate Research School.