Frequently Asked Questions

• What is postgraduate study?
• When is the closing date for applications?
• How do I write a research proposal?
• Is there a mid-year intake?
• Can I upgrade to a higher degree?
• What are the Postgraduate Arts Research Centres?
• Is there help and support?

Postgraduate study is the term used to describe a course that leads to an award such as graduate diploma, a master’s degree or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Entry to a postgraduate course usually requires prior completion of a relevant undergraduate degree (or diploma) course. There are two main types of postgraduate courses – research and coursework.

Postgraduate coursework programs consist of units of study rather than research work. Students usually attend lectures and tutorials. Graduate certificates, graduate diplomas and master’s degrees can all be obtained by coursework.

In postgraduate research programs, students undertake supervised research leading to the production of a thesis or other piece of written or creative work over a prescribed period of time. The research component must comprise 66 per cent or more of the overall course requirements. Master of Arts (Research), Doctor of Arts, Doctor of Social Sciences, Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy can all be obtained by research.

Download a copy of the 2008 Faculty of Arts Postgraduate Coursework and Research prospectus.

Listen to postgraduate coordinators discuss postgraduate coursework programs.

Semester One - March 2008
Applications will open mid September 2007. Our first closing date, for research scholarship applicants and others who would like to receive an offer prior to the Christmas break this year, is 31 October 2007. Please contact us in mid September to request an application pack or further information.

Semester Two - July 2008
Please contact us from mid March 2008 for further information.

International student applications are currently accepted for Semester 1, 2008 and Semester 2, 2008. Contact the for an application pack or download the research application form.

All research applicants must submit a research proposal with their application form. The University of Sydney's Learning Centre provides valuable advice and assistance with academic writing. The Learning Centre has produced a detailed document on writing a research proposals.

Download Writing a Thesis Proposal (pdf format)

Yes. In 2008, applications for postgraduate research degrees will be open for Semester 2 intake.

The following policy came into effect in 2002. Please refer to the Faculty of Arts Postgraduate Handbook.

Upgrade from Master of Philosophy (MPhil) to Doctor of Philosophy candidature (PhD) should not be 'automatic' or used to gain extra candidature time.

Recommendation:
1. MPhil candidates seeking to upgrade should demonstrate an ability to conduct research at PhD level by:

• providing a detailed thesis outline satisfactory to the department
• providing satisfactory chapter drafts of not less than a total of 35,000 words or equivalent (completed during the MPhil candidature)

2. Normally application to upgrade from the MPhil to PhD should be made prior to the fourth semester (full time equivalent) of MPhil candidature.

MA (Research) candidates please note: There is no provision to upgrade from the MA (Research) degree. The satisfactory completion of the MA (Research) degree is a qualification for admission to higher degree research candidature.

Postgraduate Arts Research Centres (PGARC) provide physical resources and a stimulating environment for research students in the Faculty of Arts. Each research centre provides work stations, lockers, kitchen facilities and a sitting area.

For more information, view the PGARC website.

The University of Sydney and the Faculty of Arts encourages students to use the following services and facilities;

• Getting around campus...maps, security and parking information
• Learning Centre
  Conducts free workshops on essay writing, critical reading, oral presentation skills and time management develop essential learning skills.
• Computer Access Labs
  Provides on-campus computer access with a range of office, internet and desktop publishing applications available.
• University of Sydney Library
  View locations, opening hours, collection information and searchable databases online. The Library provides training courses and seminars about its resources and services.
• Counselling Service
  Set up to assist students with any issue, problem or concern that may be interfering with your studies. Counselling is free and confidential.
• International Student Support Unit (ISSU)
  The ISSU aims to help international students develop successful strategies for coping with the challenges of living and studying in an unfamiliar culture, to achieve success in their studies and to make the experience of being an international student rewarding and enjoyable.
• Accommodation Services
  The office can assist in finding off-campus accommodation.
• Financial Assistance Office
  The University has a number of loans and bursary funds to assist you if you are experiencing financial difficulty.
• Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA)
  A student run organisation that provides free academic and welfare advice, policy research, campaigns, advocacy and function/networking opportunities.
• Sydney Uni Sport
  Provides a range of facilities as well as sporting and recreation clubs.
• University of Sydney Union (USU)
  USU is responsible for providing cultural and commercial services on campus.