The Faculty of Graduate Research oversees all doctoral degrees and we work to ensure that your experience as a thesis student is a positive one.

If you are considering doctoral study, follow our step-by-step application process and find out about funding and scholarships.

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Hear from our PhD students

Hear from our PhD students
Taylor Winter

Apply to do a doctorate

We consider applications for PhD admission and Wellington Doctoral Scholarships three times a year—1 March, 1 July, and 1 November. The deadline for professional doctorates in education, health, and music is 1 November.

Apply now
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PhD

Undertake advanced research and make an original contribution to your field at New Zealand's top ranked university for research quality.
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Doctor of Education

Become a leader and create new thinking in the education sector with a high-level professional doctorate that combines coursework and research.
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Doctor of Musical Arts

Become an outstanding musician or composer with this specialist doctorate that combines coursework, research, and creative practice.
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Doctor of Health

Make a difference and become a leader in the health sector with a high-level professional doctorate that combines coursework and original applied research.
A newborn baby is being held by his mother and snuggling into her shoulder.

Doctor of Midwifery

Develop your leadership in midwifery with a high-level doctorate that combines coursework, original applied research, and a strong professional focus.
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Doctor of Nursing

Take the next step in your nursing career with a high-level professional doctorate that combines coursework and original applied research.