How popular is PhD study in Australasia?

The flight times may be long, but attractive fees and top universities make Australia
and New Zealand popular international study destinations. The weather doesn't hurt
either.

Australia welcomes around 250,000 international students to its 42 universities.

New Zealand only has eight public research universities, but the country welcomes
over 40,000 international students.

Many of these students are enrolled on the countries' internationally respected

postgraduate programs.

How are universities in Australasia ranked?

Australian universities are well-ranked, with over 15% of them featuring in the top
100 of major league tables such as the Times Higher Education World University
Rankings and the QS World University Rankings.

New Zealand's performance is equally impressive, particularly when the size of its
higher education sector is taken into account. There are only eight universities in
New Zealand, but all are globally ranked.

Both countries also do well in targeted rankings of smaller or newer universities/

How expensive are PhDs in Australasia?

PhD fees differ slightly between Australia and New Zealand. As an international PhD
student in Australia you will pay fees at a higher rate. This doesn't apply to New
Zealand, where a government policy ensures that foreign and domestic students
pay the same PhD fees.

Both countries also offer generous funding opportunities, with scholarships and
bursaries available from universities and government initiatives.

Our detailed study guides include more information on PhD fees and funding in
Australia and New Zealand.

Where can I find out more about PhD study in Australasia?

The best way to learn more about studying a PhD abroad in Australasia is to check
out our detailed guides to PhDs in Australia and New Zealand.

We've made sure they answer all the questions you're likely to have about studying
a PhD abroad - including advice on visas, applications and fees. Each guide also
includes a detailed overview of what makes PhD study in Australia or New Zealand
unique.
NEW ZEELAND
What's it like to study a PhD in New Zealand?

New Zealand's famous landmarks and popularity with international travellers make
it an attractive destination. But the country is also easy to adjust to for international
students looking for a longer term stay.

Universities in New Zealand

Higher education in New Zealand is closely modelled on the UK university system.

Various institutions offer degrees, but, as a PhD student, you need only concern
yourself with the countries eight universities.

They are:

The University of Auckland

Auckland University of Technology

Lincoln University

Victoria University of Wellington

Massey University

The University of Waikato

The University of Canterbury

The University of Otago

All of these are public universities. This means they are supported and regulated
by the New Zealand government.

It also means that PhD fees at New Zealand universities are subsidised. Better yet,
this applies to international students as well as New Zealand citizens.

In addition to its universities, New Zealand is also home to various Institutes of

Technology and Polytechnics (ITPS). These are also tertiary level (higher education)
providers.

ITPS focus on vocational and professional education. This can include support for
advanced training on postgraduate Masters level degrees, but doesn't normally
extend to PhD research.

When does the academic year in New Zealand begin and end?
New Zealand's universities begin their academic year in February. This may seem
strange if you're used to studying in a country where university begins in the
autumn. But it's actually quite normal for countries in the southern hemisphere.

You'll probably find that you have a period of time between the end of your
Bachelors or Masters degree and the start of your New Zealand PhD. This can
actually be ideal for international students. You'll have more time to work on your
PhD application and arrange a study visa.

There are two semesters in New Zealand. These run from February to June and
from July to November. As a PhD student you will work on your project all year
round, but most teaching and administration will occur in these semesters.

What does a New Zealand PhD involve?

The New Zealand PhD is similar to its equivalents in other countries. You'll research
an in-depth topic and present your findings as an original and significant
contribution to your academic field.

This process will be assisted by an academic supervisor. They will be an academic

expert in your subject area, able to provide advice and support as you plan and
complete your project. After all, you may not have completed a PhD before. . . but
they have.

In New Zealand a PhD supervisor also plays an important role in approving and
assisting your application.

Your PhD will normally begin with a literature review. This will be a survey of
existing scholarship related to your project. You'll evaluate it and make sure that
your research expands and improves upon the work that's already been done.

You'll then refine your topic and methodology before getting down to research. This
could involve an extended period collecting data and results (this is likely in the
Sciences and related subjects). Or it could mean working systematically to research
and write chapter by chapter (this is more common in the Arts and Humanities).

At some point in this process you may be asked to submit some work for evaluation.
This could be a formal upgrade (from MPhil to PhD) or it could simply be a progress
report.

Eventually, you'll have enough material to write up a final draft of your PhD. Your
supervisor will look this over and provide feedback before you get ready to submit
the thesis for examination.

How long is a PhD in New Zealand?

PhDs at New Zealand universities are expected to take around three years of full-
time study. Some students can take slightly longer, provided their institution (and
their visa) allow it.

Note that you can't study part-time as an international PhD student in New
Zealand. Visas will only be issued for full-time degrees.

How are New Zealand PhDs assessed?

Your PhD will be assessed entirely on the strength of the thesis you submit.

Your university may set other training tasks during your degree and you may be
required to complete these to progress. But they won't have any impact on the final
award of your PhD.

The examination of your PhD will involve internal and external experts. They will
read and evaluate your work before deciding whether it is of an acceptable standard
for the award of a doctorate.

In some cases this process will involve an oral exam, or viva voce. This is a formal
discussion with the examiners, during which you answer questions and 'defend'
your thesis.

New Zealand's location and the smaller size of its higher education system can
make it more difficult to arrange viva voce exams in person. Where experts cannot
be found in New Zealand, it may be expensive for them to travel.

For this reason some PhD programs do not include the viva, but subject the thesis to
rigorous analysis as a written document. This is similar to the practice in Australia
where vivas are also less common.

Where an expert is available, your university will usually prefer to arrange an oral
exam. This can sometimes involve the use of video-conferencing to provide a
'virtual' viva.

Individual universities in New Zealand will be able to provide more information

about their PhD examination processes.

How do I apply?

There is no centralised application service for PhD students in New Zealand.

Instead, you should apply directly to your chosen university. Or, if you are a student
from the UK or Ireland, you can submit your application through Study Options.

What are the admissions requirements for a PhD in New Zealand?

Universities in New Zealand will have two main criteria for evaluating you as a
potential PhD student. These will be based on your existing qualifications and the
viability of your research project.

Academic qualifications

Your university will want to know that you have sufficient subject knowledge. This
will be assessed based on your existing academic qualifications.

Most universities will prefer you to hold a Masters degree in an appropriate

subject. Some may accept a Bachelor's degree, but the rest of your application will
need to make it clear that you are sufficiently prepared to step up to PhD level work.

Exact grades for Masters (and Bachelors) degrees may not be specified. But a
strong application should be supported by the equivalent of a Merit (Masters), 2.1
(Bachelors) or higher.

You may find that the content of your undergraduate and postgraduate work are as
important as the results you received for them. Degrees without a substantial
research component may not be regarded as sufficient preparation for PhD
research. You should be fine if you have completed a previous thesis (ideally at
Masters level).

Research proposal

Universities will also want to satisfy themselves that your research project has
sufficient potential to lead to a PhD.

You will demonstrate this by submitting a research proposal. This will outline your
project, your aims and the methodology you intend to use.

It doesn't have to be exhaustively detailed. (This is a proposal, not the actual PhD!)
But it should give your university (and your supervisor) a good idea of what you
hope to accomplish, why you hope to accomplish it and how you hope to
accomplish it.

What is the application process for a PhD in New Zealand?

Before formally applying for a PhD in New Zealand you should begin by contacting a
prospective supervisor.

This is slightly different to applications in other countries, where universities often

assign a suitable supervisor after an application has been approved.

In New Zealand, your international application won't normally be considered unless

you have gained the interest of a supervisor at the university.
This helps universities manage the number of research applications they receive
(and focus on the best candidates). But it can also benefit you as a student. Once
you have found an interested supervisor they will be able to support you through
the remainder of the application process.

Finding and approaching a supervisor

Universities in New Zealand will provide details of their academics and research
interests, but you can make the process even easier by using our PhD search.

This will allow you to see the kinds of projects and programs offered at different
institutions. You can then use this knowledge to narrow your search - or contact one
of the supervisors associated with the projects you see on FindAPhD.com.

Choosing a supervisor to approach doesn't need to be a complicated process.

Your primary criteria should be their research area. Take a look at their past
publications, their current work and any research they are currently supervising.

A good supervisor doesn't have to be working in exactly the same area as you (your
PhD needs to be unique and original, after all). But they should have interests that
your project is likely to appeal to. And sufficient expertise to advise you on it.

You should normally contact a supervisor by email. Aim to explain your research
plans as clearly and concisely as possible, making it obvious why you have chosen
to approach them with it. If you already have a research proposal you can attach
this to the email, but don't rely on it. Your email should attract sufficient interest for
the prospective supervisor to consider reading further - not the other way around.

Submitting a formal application

Once you have the support of a supervisor you can submit an application to the
university with their support and endorsement.

This will normally involve providing evidence of your existing qualifications, as well
as a formal research proposal. It's possible that your university will also wish to see
other materials. These could include:

Academic transcripts - Your university may want to know more about your
previous degrees. An academic transcript helps them do this. It will include
information on the modules you have studied, the specific grades you were
awarded and any other relevant information about your course. Your previous
university will normally be able to produce a certified transcript for you, given
time. Simply providing information about previous courses yourself won't
normally be acceptable.

References - These should include at least one statement from someone

who knows you in an academic capacity. A good choice would be a tutor from
 your Masters degree. Dissertation supervisors can also be a good option -
they will be able to prove that you have the aptitude for advanced research.
Other referees could be people who can provide more general 'character
references'. These could be employers or other professional contacts. Make
sure you notify any referees in advance and leave them enough time to
produce references.

A personal statement - Advanced research degrees such as a PhD are less

likely to ask for a separate personal statement. Your research proposal should
already cover your academic interests and reasons for selecting your project.
If a personal statement is requested it should normally cover your wider goals
and aspirations. More specific guidelines may be available from your
university.

Once you've assembled the necessary documents and have the support of a
supervisor, you can submit your application. You can do this by going directly to the
university. Or, if you are from the UK or Ireland, you can apply for a PhD in New
Zealand through Study Options.

Interviews

Universities in New Zealand may wish to discuss your application with you. If so,
they may invite you to an interview.

This can usually be conducted virtually, through a webchat or video-conferencing

channel.

Don't be nervous if you do get invited to take part in an interview. This is always a
good sign - it means a university likes the project you are proposing and wants the
opportunity to discuss it further with you.

Is there an application deadline?

Because a PhD is an independent research degree you can begin it at any time. This
normally means that you won't need to apply in time for the start of an academic
year or a specific term.

Exceptions may apply if you have funding. This will often commence from a specific
point, so you'll need to start your PhD at the same time.

How long will an application take?

You should always allow as much time as possible for an international PhD
application. Your university will do its best to deal with you quickly and effectively,
but they will need time to review your qualifcations, transcripts and research
proposal.

You'll also need to leave time for your visa application.

As a rough guide, you should expect an application for PhD study in New Zealand to
take at least four months. This could be longer in some cases.

Applying through Study Options

Study Options is the official application support service for UK and Irish nationals
who wish to study abroad in New Zealand (or Australia).

Their advisors can offer help with your application and its supporting paperwork,
including providing forms and other materials. Best of all, this service is completely
free.

You can find out more at the Study Options website.

Student Visas

New Zealand welcomes international students, but you'll probably need a visa to
live and study in the country during your PhD. Exceptions apply to citizens of some
countries, including Australia.

You'll need a specific student visa to study in New Zealand. A standard visitor's
visa will only be valid for three months. This is great for visitors, but not nearly long
enough to complete a PhD (trust us).

Applying for a New Zealand student visa

You can apply for a New Zealand student visa online through Immigration New
Zealand, or seek assistance from services offered by Study Options and individual
universities.

You'll normally be granted a visa for PhD study in New Zealand without any
difficulties. But you will need to make sure you submit evidence of the following
with your application:

Confirmation of your PhD enrolment - You'll only be eligible for a student

visa if you've been accepted to study at a recognised higher education
provider in New Zealand. This won't be a problem as a PhD student. All eight
of the country's public research universities will be able to endorse your visa
application. They will do so by providing an official declaration proving that
you have enrolled, or been offered a place.

Financial evidence - You'll need to show that you have sufficient means to
pay your fees and cover your living expenses whilst studying in New Zealand.
This can take various forms, including a fee deposit, funding or third-party
support or sponsorship. The New Zealand immigration service expects
international students to have access to at least NZ$15,000 per year whilst
studying in the country.
 Health insurance - International students in New Zealand are required to
have health insurance. Universities will usually be able to provide details of
acceptable providers in New Zealand. International policies may be
acceptable, but you should confirm this in advance as Immigration New
Zealand sets strict standards for student health insurance.

Needless to say, you'll also need your passport.

Can I work whilst studying a PhD in New Zealand?

Yes. New Zealand allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week
during term time and up to 40 hours per week during holiday periods.

There is no limitation on the kind of work you do, but you must stay within these
limits. Exceeding them could invalidate your visa.

Fees and funding

New Zealand is generally regarded as an affordable study destination. Funding is

also available to encourage and support international students.

How much does it cost to study a PhD in New Zealand?

The good news is that universities in New Zealand don't charge any additional fees
to international students. This means that you'll pay exactly the same for your PhD
as a domestic student would.

This only applies to PhDs, not Masters programs. It is part of an initiative to attract
and support international postgraduate researchers in New Zealand.

Exact fees vary between universities, but you can expect the cost of a full-time PhD
in New Zealand to be between NZ$6,500 and $8,000 per year.

Remember that you cannot study part-time on a student visa.

What funding is available?

Funding for PhD study in New Zealand is available from various sources. They
include

Funding from universities and other organisations

Universities will often offer their own scholarships, some of which will be specific to
international students. The best way to research this kind of funding is to visit
university websites, or look at the PhD opportunities listed here on FindAPhD.com.

You can also search for scholarships in New Zealand using a tool on the official New
Zealand Education website. However, not all of these will be appropriate to PhD-
level study.
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships

The New Zealand Government also runs its own New Zealand International Doctoral
Research Scholarships (NZIDRS) scheme. They cover tuition fees along with annual
stipends of NZ$25,000 for living costs and NZ$600 for medical and health insurance
coverage.

Scholarships are awarded entirely on merit and applications are highly

competitive. Recipients are expected to be within the top 5% of doctoral
researchers worldwide, with academic records to match.

Don't let that put you off though. If you think your project has potential, apply! After
all, winning such a prestigious award won't just fund your PhD. It will also make an
impressive contribution to your CV.

Further information, including advice on applications and selection criteria, is

available from Education New Zealand.

After graduation: careers and opportunities with an New Zealand PhD

New Zealand is a popular visitors' destination and you'll certainly enjoy your time
there as a PhD students. But what happens when you finish?

Well, one thing's for certain: you'll gain an internationally recognised and respected
qualification that will enhance your CV around the world. The fact that you've taken
up the opportunity of studying abroad, exposing yourself to a different culture and
facing new challenges will also impress future employers.

Career pathways for New Zealand PhD graduates are roughly the same as those
for students in other countries.

You'll be able to apply for postdoc positions, or academic jobs. But your
opportunities won't be limited to higher education. PhD holders work in various
other professions, from government and civil service jobs to consultancy firms and
think-tanks.

Can I remain in New Zealand after I graduate?

Your PhD will make you an attractive candidate for jobs around the world, but New
Zealand will be keen to benefit from the training its universities have given you.
That's why the country offers generous post-study visa arrangements.

You can apply for two types of additional visa after your PhD, depending on your
circumstances:

If you are looking for a job you can apply for a 12 month post-study work
visa.
 If you are lucky enough to have already found a job you can apply for a
further two-year post-study work visa.

More information is available from Immigration New Zealand.

Once these periods have expired you will need to decide on your longer term plans.
If you are in work in a suitable profession, you may be able to receive an ongoing
residence permit.

UNIVERSTIES AND THEIR

SUPERVISORS
The University of Auckland
https://www.findathesis.auckland.ac.nz/#/?tab=S&org=M
%26IB&page_opportunities=0&page_projects=0&page_supervisors=0

Lincoln University
Have to contact and ask for the management sciences phd supervisors

http://www.lincoln.ac.nz/Study/Qualifications/Qualification/?
QualCode=PHD.Philosophy

Victoria Business School

https://www.victoria.ac.nz/international/study/postgraduate/management/phd-in-
management

http://www.victoria.ac.nz/som/about/staff

Auckland University of Technology

https://www.aut.ac.nz/profiles/business/human-resource-management-and-
employment-relations

Massey University
http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/expertise/profile.cfm

Waikato Management School

No need to contact supervisor directly.
http://cms.mngt.waikato.ac.nz/education/Qualifications/HigherDegrees.aspx

University of Canterbury
http://www.canterbury.ac.nz/spark/Department.aspx?departmentid=52

University of Otago
http://www.commerce.otago.ac.nz/mgmt/staff/ourstaff.html#_Academic_/Teaching_s
taff