Research degree - How do I apply?
Now that you have decided to apply for candidature in a research degree offered by the School of Public Health, the following information will assist you in making your application:
- Main priorities - choosing a topic and supervisor
- Application procedures - application forms, documentation to be submitted and guidelines for research proposals
- Contact information - where to direct your enquires
Main priorities
For students intending to apply for candidature in a research degree, the main priorities are to:
- decide on a topic, and
- select a supervisor
In order to be enrolled as a student in the School of Public Health, your main supervisor should have an academic appointment in or be affiliated to the School. You may also decide to take on another associate supervisor who can be either within or external to the School.
To find an appropriate supervisor, you should explore the research interests of (and find the contact details for), our academic staff. You may also want to search the Research section of this site to find out further information about research conducted in the School. It is also a good idea to do a literature search on those who you think may be potential supervisors for your topic.
If you are local, it is advisable to meet with them to discuss your ideas about a potential research project. Ask for feedback on the suitability of your proposal for a research project, if they would suggest any modifications and to recommend other potential associate supervisors. There is also a discussion guide and supervision guidelines to facilitate communication and assist you and your supervisor with the supervision process.
It is essential that you discuss your proposed research project (and the formulation of your research proposal), and your preliminary coursework needs, with an academic member of the School and/or your preferred supervisor before completing your application.
Application procedures
Once you have established what your topic will be and who will supervise your studies, you can formally apply to join the School as a research student. These are the steps to follow to apply for admission to a research degree:
1. Application form
Complete the application form for admission to a research degree:
2. Research proposal
Your application must also include a short (1-2 pages) outline of your proposed research topic in the form of a research proposal. The School provides detailed guidelines on what to include in your research proposal.
Your research proposal must be signed by your potential supervisor to indicate that they have seen your outline and have formally agreed to supervise you.
3. Documentation and attachments
Your application for admission into a research degree must also be accompanied by the following documentation:
- a curriculum vitae (CV)
- academic transcripts
- proof of citizenship
- an explanatory letter (optional)
Descriptions of and requirements for these documents and attachments can be found in the application procedures for coursework students.
4. Submission
For Australian (local) students:
You must submit your application, including the research proposal and all accompanying documentation and attachments to Sydney Medical School’s Postgraduate Student Administration Unit (PSAU):
Postgraduate Student Administration Unit:
Edward Ford Building A27
University of Sydney
NSW 2006 AUSTRALIA
The PSAU will then forward it to the post-graduate co-ordinator and the departmental postgraduate admissions committee for approval.
For International Students:
You must submit your application, including the research proposal and all accompanying documentation and attachments to the:
International Office
Services Building G12
The University of Sydney
NSW 2006 AUSTRALIA
Website
Contact information
All initial enquires regarding application and enrolment should be directed to the Postgraduate Student Administration Unit:
Address:
Edward Ford Building A27
University of Sydney
NSW 2006 Australia
Phone:
+61 2 9351 5470
Fax:
+61 2 9351 8529
Email:
For further information on research degrees in the School contact:
Assoc Prof Susan Quine
Postgraduate Coordinator (Research)
Phone: +61 2 9351 4371
Fax: +61 2 9351 7420
Email: