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A graduate who has qualified for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) will demonstrate highly developed and independent skills in the definition, management and communication of original research in a specialist area. A PhD graduate will have made a significant contribution to knowledge in the particular field. On completion of their studies, PhD graduates will be able to:

  1. Undertake further advanced research of the highest quality that contributes to knowledge and exhibits authorative international standing in their own subject field
  2. Continue developing personally and professionally in their careers
  3. Make potentially innovative, and important contributions to the communities and societies in which they reside.

Graduate Attributes

  • SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE: Capacity to assimilate information at depth in a field of study, and to impart to others a clear understanding of it. Appreciation of the relevance and value of his or her original contribution to facts, theories and practices of the national and international knowledge community.
  • GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE: Highly developed appreciation of global perspectives in the chosen discipline(s) and the nature of global citizenship
  • INTERDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVE: Commitment to intellectual openness and curiosity, and the awareness of the limits of current knowledge and of the links amongst disciplines
  • LIFELONG LEARNING: Commitment to the on-going acquisition of new knowledge and new skills, and a highly developed ability to apply these to an ever- changing environment
  • SCHOLARSHIP: Commitment to the fundamental importance of the acquisition and development of knowledge and understanding
  • COMMUNICATION: Highly developed ability to communicate information, arguments and analyses effectively, both orally and in writing
  • CRITICAL THINKING: Highly developed ability to analyse issues logically, to challenge conventional assumptions, to consider different options and viewpoints, make informed decisions and act with flexibility, adaptability and creativity
  • CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING: Knowledge and appreciation of biculturalism within the framework of the Treaty of Waitangi; knowledge and appreciation of multiculturalism; and an ability to apply such knowledge in a culturally appropriate manner.
  • ETHICS: Knowledge of ethics and ethical standards and a highly developed ability to apply these with a sense of responsibility within the workplace and community
  • ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY: Understanding of the principles that govern natural systems, the effects of human activity on these systems, and the cultures and economies that interact with those systems
  • INFORMATION LITERACY: Highly developed ability to apply specific skills in acquiring, organising, analysing, evaluating and presenting information, in particular recognising the increasing prominence of digital-based activity
  • RESEARCH: Highly developed ability to initiate, design, conduct and report independent and original research, a willingness to seek continuous improvement in research skills and quality of research, and an awareness of the application of knowledge
  • SELF-MOTIVATION: Highly developed ability for self-directed activity and working independently
  • TEAMWORK: Ability to work effectively as both a team leader and a team member
  • LEADERSHIP: Demonstrates leadership within the discipline and within a workplace
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