Research Degrees
If you are considering a higher degree by research, you probably love your subject and would like nothing more than to spend the next couple of years exploring a particular aspect of it.
However, you should also give some careful thought to the challenges and benefits involved before you take on this commitment. Check out the following articles to find out more.
Is a research degree for you?
Many prospective research students already know the answer to this question. Throughout their undergraduate degree and honours year they have undertaken some basic research in their field and are eager to delve deeper into a particular area. Perhaps they want a career in academia, or a mentor has encouraged them to apply for a particular research project. (Read more)
Getting started
Once you’ve decided to pursue a research degree, it’s never too early to start thinking about possible research topics, supervisors and funding opportunities. (Read more)
Funding your research degree
Unlike postgraduate coursework students, who generally bear the entire cost of their tuition and living expenses while they complete their program, postgraduate research students can access a wide range of financial support. (Read more)
What to expect
While research degrees involve a great deal of self-directed study, you won’t be expected to name your thesis topic and then seclude yourself in the library or lab for the next few years to figure it all out by yourself. (Read more)
Getting through your degree
Research programs can be challenging and the hard truth is that many candidates never finish their thesis. At one time or another many students feel isolated, lose confidence in their ability, experience setbacks in their experiments, have a falling out with their supervisor or struggle to balance their research with family and financial commitments. (Read more)
Life after graduation
As you investigate various postgraduate study options, you may be wondering where a research degree can take you. Will the years of long hours and little money be worth it? (Read more)
Research grads — the big picture
According to the latest AGS reports, recent research graduates (masters and PhD) had a median annual salary of $61,000, compared with $40,800 for graduates of bachelor degrees and $65,000 for graduates of masters by coursework programs. (Read more)
