How to apply for a research degree

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A higher degree by research advances knowledge and/or applications of knowledge through the preparation of a substantial thesis that represents a significant contribution to a particular field of study. You will engage in an intensive individual program of research at Masters or Doctor of Philosophy level, under the guidance of an experienced supervisor with research expertise in a specific area.

Research degrees support you to achieve industry and professionally relevant skills, knowledge and research frameworks to achieve your career goals.

To find out how to apply to do a research degree within the School of Art, Architecture and Design, please refer to the information below. A portfolio is required of most applicants.

Steps to applying
Scholarships available (University wide)
Portfolio requirements

Steps to applying

Research degree places are offered each year to a limited number of suitably qualified applicants on a case-by-case basis.

Before you apply

Before applying for a research degree, you should identify a suitable research topic and a potential supervisor from amongst the staff in the School of Art, Architecture and Design qualified to supervise such a project. Contact the relevant Portfolio Leader well in advance of submitting your application.

Applications for a place may be made at any time during the year, however applications for scholarships close on 31 October so the School only accepts occasional applications for places outside this date.

Prospective applicants should contact the School's Research Support Officer Hazel Ryder prior to 30 September each year to arrange an interview to discuss the proposed research project with:

Portfolio Leader Research Education, Dr Pamela Zeplin (email pamela.zeplin@unisa.edu.au or phone +618 8302 0329)

Telephone consultation can be arranged if you live interstate or are an international applicant. Decisions regarding offers are made by a committee.

Check that you are eligible

Applicants for research degrees are expected to hold a good honours degree or equivalent in a design-related discipline.

Scholarships available

Portfolio submission

All studio applicants are required to submit a portfolio to the School. Please see Portfolio requirements - applicants below.

Australian applicants

While applications are formally required to be submitted via Research Degrees Apply Online (closing date 31 October each year), the School requires your portfolio by 24 September to make a preliminary assessment.

International applicants

While applications are formally required to be submitted via Research Degrees Apply Online (closing date 31 August each year) the School requires your portfolio by 15 June to make a preliminary assessment.

Finding a Supervisor

Use the Directory of Research Expertise to find a research degree supervisor in the School of Art, Architecture and Design. Type either art or architecture or design in the keyword search field and search by all keywords to get comprehensive results.

2008 research degree thesis titles - Art and Visual Communication Design (PDF 28kb - download Adobe Acrobat) may be a useful resource as a guide to supervisors.

If you require further information about the School's research degree programs, please contact the Research Support Officer:
Hazel Ryder
Room K4-16
Telephone: +618 8302 0426
Email: hazel.ryder@unisa.edu.au

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Portfolio requirements

Portfolios should be the applicant's own original recent work and may include:

Art works (drawings, paintings, photographs, sculpture, installation, performance, ceramics, prints, glass, jewellery/metal, textiles)
Graphic design or illustration work (logos, posters, publication covers, illustrations, web designs, design tenders)
Architecture, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture - construction and design drawings

Portfolio presentation requirements - applicants

Up to 15 images of works. Digital images are preferred, although slides will be accepted; audiovisual material must be on a DVD, maximum duration 10 minutes. Please provide a list of all images with name, title, date, medium and dimensions, and ensure all support material is labelled.
Statement of academic qualifications. Please state your undergraduate academic qualifications, together with any postgraduate qualifications or experience.
Resume or curriculum vitae. Please state your career achievements, with particular emphasis upon those relevant to your proposed program of study. You may also outline employment experience relevant to your proposed program of study.