Accessibility Skip to Global Navigation Skip to Local Navigation Skip to Content Skip to Search Skip to Site Map Menu

Prospective PhD students

Become an expert in your subject area, and make a difference

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded on the submission of a thesis and an oral examination in which you must reveal your ability to carry out research, show originality, independence, and make a significant contribution to knowledge in your chosen. Most students take between 3–4 years of full-time study to complete their PhD.

Our PhD graduates will:

  • Gain specialist knowledge in your subject area, and work towards becoming an expert in your field
  • Achieve the advantage in a competitive job market, in an economy that is becoming increasingly knowledge-based
  • Develop transferable skills: communication, problem-solving and critical reasoning,
  • Learn to think in-depth, and from different angles and perspectives
  • Make a positive impact on our society, economy, and the environment, through your research
  • Learn how to balance study and life and enjoy the wonderful surrounds

Resources for prospective PhD students:

For further information about Otago’s PhD programme:

Email phd@otago.ac.nz