QUT PhD and Scholarships : Tips, terminologies and what to expect.

Summary

The video outlines the process of enrolling in and completing a PhD at QUT. It begins with an Expression of Interest (EOI), followed by finding a supervisor through research. Once eligibility is confirmed, students submit an application for admission and scholarship. The first year focuses on planning and research, leading to a Confirmation of Candidature milestone. Over the next two years, students continue their studies, leading to a final seminar before thesis submission. The video also highlights the importance of choosing the right supervisor and building a supportive relationship.

Takeaways

• 😀 The first step to enrolling in a PhD at QUT is submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), usually due in September.
• 📝 Eligibility for a PhD typically requires an honors degree or a research master's with sufficient research experience.
• 🔎 Finding a supervisor is crucial, and students are advised to do a Google search based on their research interests.
• 📧 Once a potential supervisor is identified, students should reach out with an introduction, CV, and project ideas.
• 📝 The application form serves two purposes: applying for admission and for scholarships, which are competitive.
• 📅 Three months into the program, students must submit a more detailed project description, called Stage 2.
• 📊 A significant milestone at the end of the first year is the Confirmation of Candidature (COC), which involves a presentation and a written report.
• 🧑‍🏫 During the program, students work with multiple supervisors, often from different fields depending on their research needs.
• 📈 The final seminar at the end of year three allows students to present their research before formal examination.
• 💼 It's important to choose a supervisor wisely by understanding their supervision style and researching their previous students' experiences.

Q & A

What is the first step to enrolling in a PhD program at QUT?

The first step is submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is evaluated by the research team to determine eligibility for direct entry into a PhD program.

What qualifications are typically required for direct entry into a PhD at QUT?

Direct entry usually requires completing a four-year Honours degree or a research Master's degree, along with demonstrating substantial research experience and training.

How do students find a supervisor for their PhD at QUT?

Students are encouraged to conduct a Google search based on their area of interest and relevant keywords, then reach out to potential supervisors via email with an introduction, a topic idea, and their CV.

What does Stage 1 of the PhD application process involve?

Stage 1 involves submitting an application form, which serves both as an application for admission to the PhD program and for a scholarship.

What is expected of PhD students during their first year at QUT?

The first year is primarily a planning stage, where students develop and refine their research questions, methodology, and literature review. They must also submit a detailed research plan called Stage 2 after three months.

What is the Confirmation of Candidature (CoC), and when does it take place?

The CoC takes place at the end of the first year. It is a formal milestone involving a presentation and submission of a written document, where students outline their research question, literature review, and methodology.

What is the role of supervisors during the PhD journey at QUT?

Supervisors guide students throughout the PhD process. Typically, students have two supervisors—a principal and an associate. Some may also have an industry mentor depending on the nature of the research.

What happens during the final seminar in year three of the PhD program?

The final seminar allows students to present their draft thesis in a supportive environment, receiving feedback before the thesis goes out for external examination. Students then have three months to make final adjustments.

What is the timeline for PhD thesis examination at QUT?

The examination process generally takes around three to six months, during which the thesis is reviewed by external experts in the field.

How important is the relationship between a PhD student and their supervisor?

The relationship is crucial, as students will work closely with their supervisor for three years. Clear communication and aligned expectations are key to a smooth and productive PhD journey.