Study LevelHigher Degree by Research

Push the boundaries of knowledge with a Higher Degree by Research at UWA. Conduct original research, work with leading experts, and develop the skills to make meaningful impact in your field.

How to apply

Research that makes an impact

At UWA, research drives real-world impact. Our Higher Degree by Research students tackle important problems, collaborate globally, and contribute to discoveries that shape their fields.

  • 77

    Ranked in the world

    QS 2026

  • 13

    Subjects in the world's top 50

    QS 2025 and GRAS 2024

  • #1

    Ranked in Western Australia

    QS 2026

A woman wearing a laboratory coat inspecting a crop inside a greenhouse

Graduate Research School

The Graduate Research School provides induction, candidature advice, assistance and professional development opportunities to ensure you can make the most of your research journey.

Learn more

Benefits of a research degree

High-achieving students undertake a research degree for many reasons, but they all share a drive to develop expertise in their chosen area. Whatever your focus, the benefits of a research degree are significant.   

  • Make key contributions

    Explore your area of interest in depth and make a meaningful contribution to knowledge, guided by world-leading experts.

  • High employability and transferable skills

    HDR graduates are in demand across many industries. You'll build sought-after skills including critical thinking, problem solving, communication, project management and evidence-based decision-making.

  • Career progression

    A research degree is essential for a career in academia and increasingly valued across other sectors. Many professionals return to research study mid-career to enhance their opportunities.

  • Internships and other partnerships to expand networks

    Students are supported to undertake research internships with industry partners or join existing programs. Many have industry experts as part of their supervisory team.

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A common misconception is that a PhD will be all-consuming and take over your life. It doesn’t have to be this way. There are many ways to conduct research and communicate with supervisors and a healthy, balanced approach to life and research brings the most positive experience and outcomes.
Dr Kelsie Prabawa-Sear

PhD candidate at UWA

HDR course options

 A postgraduate research degree gives you the chance to explore your passion and deepen your expertise alongside internationally recognised researchers. Browse our research courses to find the right fit for you.

How to find a supervisor and project

Finding a supervisor and project that align with your research interests is an important first step in your Higher Degree by Research. Supervisors provide guidance on your topic, project design and dissertation, while existing projects may offer a clear path in your chosen field. Explore current opportunities or connect with potential supervisors to get started.

Search projectsContact a supervisor

Scholarships and prizes

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NIF Human Imaging Facility

World-class facilities

UWA operates more than 75 research and training centres and attracts the majority of WA’s university research funding, supporting innovation, training and real-world impact

Explore research infrastructure

Contact us

  • Send an enquiry

    Get in touch with our Graduate Research School team and submit an online enquiry. 

    Submit enquiry

  • Call us

    We’re here to help, contact us between 8:30-5pm, Monday to Friday.

    Call (+61 8) 6488 2807

  • askUWA

    View our Frequently Asked Questions for all UWA-related queries.

    View FAQs

  • Visit us

    Visit the Graduate Research School office at Ezone Central, Level 3, Rm302,  between 9am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday. 

    View campus map