Program Requirements
The main content of your Fenner School PhD is a significant, original research project carried out in any of the many areas of environmental research covered by the School. Your research is supervised by a panel comprising a primary supervisor and at least two other faculty members, often covering two or more disciplines, and it typically lasts 3–3.5 years full-time, or part-time equivalent. External researchers, often from government agencies for policy-related research, serve on many panels as supervisors or advisors. You normally plan and develop your research with much initial help of your primary supervisor, and then take an increasingly independent role as you progress.
To improve research and presentation skills, you present three research seminars during your PhD, the first two as part of formal Thesis Proposal and Mid-Term reviews. Your research findings are generally written up as contributions to peer-reviewed journals, and presented at national and international conferences.
By the end of your PhD program you acquire the ability to think critically, to assess what's needed to solve problems, to contribute to their solutions as an individual or part of a team, and to communicate results to academic or public audiences in person or in writing. Your PhD is awarded on the basis of two or three examiners assessing your research thesis of up to 100,000 words, often a collection of papers accepted for publication during your program.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program you need to have completed an Australian Bachelor Degree with at least Upper Second Class Honours (First Class Honours is usually required) or its international equivalent, or a Graduate Diploma or Master Degree with a significant research thesis component. There must also be a supervisor at ANU, normally a member of the Fenner School's academic staff, who has agreed to supervise your research.
You must also meet the University’s English Language Admission Requirements for Students.
You may be granted admission if you can demonstrate that you have a background equivalent to these qualifications.
If you think you qualify, check out our guidance on how to apply, which also gives guidance on how to find a supervisor.
Indicative fees
All students are required to pay the Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)
Domestic students
Domestic research students are not required to pay tuition fees as they are enrolled under the Research Training Scheme which funds the fees. For further information see students.anu.edu.au/fees/domestic/research.php
International students
Indicative fees for international students are:
International student fees (ISF)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $36,528.00
For further information on International Tuition Fees see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/international-tuition-fees
Scholarships
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Exceptional research degrees at ANU
The Australian National University provides PhD students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support. When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program.
As a PhD student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.
Career Options
ANU provides you with more choice for your entrance score by offering the new Flexible Double Degree program.
The ANU Flexible Double Degree lets you build skills for your chosen career without forfeiting your passion. It's your choice to build a double degree partnership that suits your head and your heart.http://students.anu.edu.au/applications/
Employment Opportunities
Fenner School PhD graduates are employed in a wide range of careers and countries, most commonly in government or university departments, research agencies and consultancies.
