Course details

Summary

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded by the University for research carried out under the supervision of at least two staff members. A PhD can also be presented as a PhD with Publication or a PhD with a Creative Practice Component. The research, which must be the candidate's own work, is written up as a thesis, and may include papers published or intended to be published. The thesis is required to present the case for the research, outline the research undertaken and the findings and conclusions of that research. There is no course work for this degree.

Studying Philosophy at Waikato will teach you how to learn, think and write clearly, argue vigorously, and question deeply held assumptions and beliefs. The study of Philosophy involves tackling ethical and science-related issues, logic problems and debates about the nature of reality. It asks fundamental questions about what it means to be human, at this time and in this place. Employers understand the value of graduates who can think, and decide, for themselves. Waikato Philosophy graduates have the practical and analytical skills needed for careers within the public and private, health, business, environmental, publishing, information technology and education sectors, among others.

Career Opportunities

• Business Consultant
• Editor
• Environmental Consultant
• Health Policy Adviser
• Policy Analyst
• Public Relations Practitioner

Entry criteria

A bachelors with honours or masters degree with a research component of at least 30 points and have achieved at least Second Class Honours (First Division) or Distinction.

English Language Requirements

an IELTS Overall score of at least 6.5 overall (including at least 6.0 or better in the Writing band), or an iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 90 with a Writing score of 22, or a B grade or better at Level 8 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or an overall score of C (with at least a C in the Writing band) in the Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes, or a PTE Academic overall score of 65 with no less than 58 for each communicative skill.