Doctor of Philosophy

Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi offers supervised Doctoral Degrees. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded for a thesis demonstrating a candidate’s ability to carry out independent research and analysis at an advanced level of study in a particular discipline or field. 

The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research doctorate and as a doctoral degree, is the highest level you can achieve.

The PhD degree normally involves a minimum of three years’ full-time research and six years’ part-time as a maximum. The minimum period of enrolment is three years.

Entrance into the Doctoral programme is through a selection process overseen by the Doctoral Research Committee. Students interested in the PhD should have a relevant qualification through Master’s or Honours programmes. Students with relevant experience and backgrounds in other fields plus a graduate qualification may also apply, however entry will be at the ultimate discretion of the Head of School.

Research can be carried out in the fields of Education, Indigenous Studies, Environmental Studies, Māori Studies and a range of creative studies. The thesis is examined and defended orally before an examination committee represented by a neutral convener appointed by the Doctoral Research Committee, one examiner from Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, and two external examiners, one of whom will normally be internationally located.

Visit the Careers NZ website for more information on this qualification.