Higher Degrees Research

Research with global impact

Take your research career to new heights by joining the vibrant and widely recognised research community at Southern Cross University. By studying a Higher Degree by Research, you will benefit from the expertise and support of other researchers, fellow graduates and staff across a range of disciplines. Our research strengths include the protection and sustainability of the world’s precious marine environments, helping to transform the forestry, mining and agriculture industries, and being at the forefront of the rapidly changing tourism industry.

Higher Degrees Research

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Professional Doctorate

Become a leader in educational policy or contribute to Indigenous knowledge with a Professional Doctorate from Southern Cross University. Candidates may study the following:

Women holding a drone used for research, with a drone flying in background

Doctor of Philosophy

Make a significant and original contribution to your field of expertise with a Doctor of Philosophy. Supervised by leading researchers, you will develop new ideas and ways of approaching existing problems, thus creating a positive impact on our future. Candidates may study the following:

Graduate Certificate of Research Communication and Management
Get recognition for the skills you develop during your HDR degree with the Graduate Certificate of Research Communication and Management. Read more about this course.

5-star rating

According to ERA, our researchers include nationally and internationally acknowledged leaders in Earth Science, Ecology and Foresty Sciences and more.

World-class facilities

A state-of-the-art engineering and science precinct at the Lismore campus supports high-impact, experimental, numerical-based engineering research.

Research centres

Providing latest research and innovative solutions, our experts work in research centres spanning from the local community to the world stage.

Expert knowledge

We have more than 300 academics engaged in learning, teaching and research-related activities at Southern Cross University.

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Find a supervisor

If you plan to apply for a Masters degree, Professional Doctorate or Doctorate degree at Southern Cross University, it is essential to first find a supervisor.

Our researchers share a vision that anticipates the future and believes in what is possible. They work closely with industry, community groups, government organisations and peak bodies to develop industry-relevant research of local, national and global value.

Use our 'Find a Supervisor' search, contact your prospective supervisor and gain their consent to be nominated as part of your application.

Find a supervisor   

The $12 million Health Sciences Building, boasting a stunning passive solar building design, is a dynamic gateway health precinct to Southern Cross Coffs Harbour.

Multi-Badged Degrees

Southern Cross University also offers research candidates the opportunity to enrol in a multi-badged degree with collaborating institutions in Australia and internationally. Our aim is to establish strong continuing relationships with other Australian and international research universities through the joint research candidate supervision. The multi-badged degrees are open to both international and domestic PhD candidates.
For more information please view or download:

Contact the Graduate School

Manager, Graduate School

Helen Wolton

T: +61 2 6626 9426

E: helen.wolton@scu.edu.au

For general queries:

T: +61 2 6626 9186

T: +61 2 6620 3705

E: gradschool@scu.edu.au

Dean, Graduate Studies

Les Christidis

T: +61 2 6620 3742

E: les.christidis@scu.edu.au

General contacts:

For general contact details please visit our contacts page.

Know what research topic you wish to pursue? Find your supervisor and start your journey with us.

Find a supervisor

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