Starting your Higher Degree by Research (HDR)

Enrolment, leave and changes to candidature

During your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) you will enrol each year, take leave and may make changes to your candidature.

Fee information

Fees payable for your research degree will depend on whether you are an international or domestic candidate.

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Before semester starts

Complete your checklist and find other resources to help you get set for your first semester at RMIT.

Supervisor relationships

RMIT provides academic supervision for all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates to ensure you’re fully supported with your research project.

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Resources and support

RMIT offer a vast range of resources and support services for Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates to give you the best chance of success.

Acronym glossary

You will find that RMIT uses a lot of acronyms, which can take a while to get used to.

Publishing during candidature

Information about including publications in your thesis and developing a publication and authorship plan.

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Candidate Action and Support Plan

We want all our Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) candidates to get the support they need, when they need it, to successfully complete their research program.

Orientation

Orientation: finding your feet

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Learn all about starting at RMIT.

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HDR Orientation

You will be invited to a general HDR Orientation session in your first six months of candidature. You will also be invited to attend an induction run by Research Training Services that will cover your candidature questions. Please regularly check your emails for these invitations.

Candidates can also access orientation material via Research Plus Online in Canvas. You’ll find webinars, videos and slide packs with important orientation information, along with tips and tricks on getting started with your research degree at RMIT.

School or College Induction

Learn all about HDR life in your School or College. Check for email invites from your School or the Research Training Services Team.

HDR structure and requirements

Whether you’re completing a PhD or Master by Research, your degree pathway follows the same basic structure.

You’ll be required to complete three milestone reviews throughout your candidature:

Confirmation of Candidature
Second Milestone Review
Third Milestone Review.

Each milestone is a stepping stone towards submission and examination.

At the start of your candidature, you are required to complete several compulsory research courses. You may also require ethics approval to do your research.

Learn more about HDR enrolment and courses.

Starting your Higher Degree by Research (HDR)