Graduate Research School Research Programs and Pathways Qualifications & Entry Requirements for HDR

Qualifications & Entry Requirements for HDR

Primary pathways

You may be eligible for direct entry into a PhD or MPhil if you have completed:

  • Class I, Division A Honours
    • Including at least 12 credit points of supervised research thesis
    • Eligible for direct entry into a PhD
  • Class II, Division B Honours
    • Including at least 12 credit points of supervised research thesis
    • Eligible for entry into an MPhil

    For more information on AQF levels and qualifications, please visit the Australian Qualifications Framework website.

Applicants with a Bachelor degree may be eligible for HDR entry through the following pathways:

  • Bachelor degree with GPA ≥ 5.5/7
    • May be considered for entry into an MPhil
  • Bachelor degree meeting course entry requirements
    • May be considered for a Master by Coursework with a supervised research project component

For more information on AQF levels and qualifications, please visit the Australian Qualifications Framework website.

Applicants who have completed a relevant Master by Coursework degree may be eligible for HDR entry where the degree includes:

  • At least 12 credit points of supervised research project
  • A minimum grade requirement as outlined in the course entry requirements

Alternative pathways

JCU recognises that candidates may come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. Alternative pathways are available for applicants who may need additional research preparation before commencing a Higher Degree by Research.

A preparatory research qualification that may support entry into HDR study.

  • Duration: 0.5 years
  • May support entry into:
    • PhD (with high academic performance and supervised research project)
    • MPhil

Requirements may include:

  • GPA ≥ 5/7
  • Supervised research project component
  • Minimum academic grade requirements

An extended preparatory research qualification designed to strengthen research capability.

  • Duration: 1 year
  • May support entry into:
    • PhD (with distinction-level performance)
    • MPhil

Requirements may include:

  • GPA ≥ 5/7
  • Supervised research project component
  • Minimum academic grade requirements

Applicants with significant professional experience involving research activity may also be considered for HDR admission.

This may include:

  • Relevant tertiary qualifications
  • Research training
  • Industry or professional research experience

Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and may include additional entry conditions where applicable.

Need advice on your pathway?

The Graduate Research School can provide guidance on suitable HDR pathways and entry options based on your qualifications, academic history, and professional experience.