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Why UniSA for a PhD

At UniSA our PhD connects research students to partnered grand challenges in research, and enhances employability and future careers.

UniSA is committed to ensuring that research degree candidates experience excellent and contemporary research training and that, in the course of their candidature, they acquire a skill set that expands their employment choices post-PhD.

The UniSA PhD:

  • Connects candidates with partnered grand challenges in research
  • Accelerates PhD graduates towards career success through extensive skill development opportunities
  • Engages end-users of research from public and private organisations and communities
  • Establishes the researcher in their disciplinary community.

UniSA EDGE  is a development model designed to support our PhD candidates' career preparation, through:

  • Development of research and professional skills
  • Structured & experiential learning opportunities
  • Enhanced research outcomes for the benefit of candidate, supervisor and uni 

Find out more

Enhanced end-user involvement in research, through supervisory panels, mentoring and internship experiences, allowing for:

  • Shaping research projects, to achieve real-world outcomes
  • Candidate exposure and experience with industry
  • Formation of networks & collaborations in and beyond the University

Panel Supervision

Each candidate has a panel of qualified supervisors, established according to the needs of the candidate and their project. The panel may include supervisors from more than one discipline, and end-user advisors from industry partners, including private, government, not-for-profit or community groups.

Panel supervision provides:

  • Opportunity to enrich the project with multidisciplinary expertise & perspectives
  • Continuity of supervision
  • Broadened networks
  • Development of disciplinary expertise, and expert research skills.

Oral Defence

Following the examination of the written thesis or exegesis, candidates discuss their work in depth with their examiners. This provides opportunity for:

  • Interaction with leaders in their fields of study
  • Clarification of any concerns or questions raised by examiners
  • Examination of the candidate as well as the product of the research
  • Establishment of the candidate in their disciplinary community.

Felicity Braithwaite, PhD Candidate

“Having regular access to multiple supervisors on my panel provided diverse perspectives on my research, and paved the way to innovation in my project. My advisor helped me to meet others in his industry, and helped me frame my approach to maximise success when engaging with them.”

Dr Felicity Braithwaite, UniSA PhD graduate

“Being able to discuss my examiners’ written comments helped to cement my understanding and have real clarity around the meaning of their comments. And I guess it helped them understand my work better, because in the end, I only had to make some of the thesis changes identified in their written reports, rather than all of them. The longer term benefit of the defence is feeling more confident about meeting my examiners in the future or, indeed, following up with them for future advice or collaboration.”

Dr Joel Fuller, UniSA PhD graduate

Dr Joel Fuller, UniSA PhD graduate

Partnerships

The UniSA PhD provides an opportunity for existing, and prospective partners to engage with UniSA to:

  • Access new knowledge and insights that benefit your business
  • Have the opportunity to spot new talent
  • Provide your organisation with staff development opportunities, and
  • Shape the direction of research and knowledge coming from UniSA.

If you would like to know more about the unique partnering opportunities available at UniSA, please contact us at  [email protected]

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

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Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

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A doctoral degree in Law at the University of South Africa (UNISA) will require you to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis.

University of South Africa (UNISA) Multiple locations Johannesburg , South Africa Top 5% worldwide Studyportals University Meta Ranking 3.8 Read 556 reviews

About the program

Coursework may be required as preparation or value addition to the research, but does not contribute to the credit value of the qualification.

The defining characteristic of this qualification is that you will be required to demonstrate high-level research capability and make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of the discipline or field. This work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication. This Law program is offered at the University of South Africa (UNISA).

Programme Structure

  • The curriculum consists of a thesis that incorporates a research proposal, an oral defence (viva voce) and two manuscripts, based on the candidate's research, submitted for publication to a recognised accredited journal.
  • Proof of the submission of the manuscripts is a compulsory condition for the degree to be conferred.

Key information

  • 72 months

Start dates & application deadlines

  • Apply before 2025-01-31 00:00:00

Disciplines

Academic requirements.

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Student insurance.

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

  • Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
  • Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
  • Home contents and baggage

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of South Africa (UNISA) and/or in South Africa, please visit Student Insurance Portal .

Other requirements

General requirements.

  • A master's degree in a relevant discipline with an average of 60%. In addition to these requirements, applicants must submit a transcript or an academic record, as well as a document describing their intended research.
  • All students with foreign qualifications, including those with qualifications from African countries, must have their qualifications evaluated at SAQA.

Tuition Fee

International, living costs for johannesburg.

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Law.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

Read more about eligibility

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A step-by-step guide

Research degree applications are made through our secure online portal.

At UniSA, all research degree applications are made to a specific project as listed on our  research projects  page. Some projects have living allowance scholarship funding, and all projects list the Principal Supervisor. New projects are listed regularly, so please complete our  expression of interest form  if you wish to be notified of new projects in the future.

If you wish to develop your own project please review our guidelines about this, and contact the Graduate Research Admissions team if you have any questions.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Take the first step towards applying for a research degree – check whether you are eligible.

Step 2: Find a research project

Ready to apply now? View the research projects available for application.

Got a question?

Feel free to get in touch with the Graduate Research team if you have any questions.

  • Research degree graduate qualities minus-thin plus-thin Generic indicators
  • UniSA Opportunities for Current Students minus-thin plus-thin Ability Grants for research degree students Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarships Completion Scholarships Maurice de Rohan International Scholarship Fee-relief scholarships International Travel Grants The Gould Experimental Science Grant Ian Davey Research Thesis Prize Dr Terry Farquharson Pharmacy PhD Top-Up Scholarship Scheer Science Research Grant

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You're considered an International student if you are:

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Doctor of Philosophy

Degree Level Research

Degree info for International students

Campus Magill

Duration 4 year(s) full-time

Mode On-campus

Program Code MPDE

Fees AUD$ 32,400 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

International Admission by Country See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code See research areas (PDF)

Program level Doctorate by research

Entry requirements

You must check the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for and make sure you are eligible.

  • If you are an international applicant you also need to check that you meet the English language requirements.
  • Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not automatically guarantee entry into a research degree.

Degree overview

  • Develop the ability to independently design and execute original research that generates new knowledge.
  • Benefit from our extensive national and international research links, our world class research 1 and strong record in winning national competitive grants.
  • Undertake exciting and innovative research in the broad field of education.
  • Work under the guidance of experienced and highly qualified research supervisors.
  • Learn from visiting scholars and artists.
  • Create your project around your professional and research interests and community engagement.
  • Work in a dynamic research environment.
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities 2 , we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) 2 UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

What is a research degree?

A research degree is an advanced program of study allowing you to investigate a topic relevant to your field. Under the supervision of world-class researchers, you will learn and apply advanced research methodologies to produce new knowledge and provide solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges. Completing a research degree means becoming an expert in your field. It’s your opportunity to take a topic that interests you, explore it in depth, tackle intellectual, creative and practical challenges, and communicate your findings.

Depending on your area of interest, you can study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Professional Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications) or Master of Research.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (up to four years full-time equivalent) provides you with advanced training and education, and the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality.

By the end of your program, you will be capable of independently designing and executing original research that generates new knowledge.

Professional Doctorate

A rigorous program of advanced study and research, designed specifically to meet the needs of industry, end-users and professional groups. Professional doctorates usually consist of a blend of coursework and research (three to four years full-time equivalent), encouraging close cooperation across university, industry and the profession, as well as providing a framework for integrated professional expertise and scholarly inquiry.

Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications)

Allows formal recognition of established researchers and/or scholars who do not already hold a PhD qualification, and who have produced research of international standing in their field with an ongoing record of academic publication (work).

Master of Research

A Master of Research (two years full-time equivalent) enables you to analyse your thesis topic at an advanced level, and apply research methodology and techniques to contribute new knowledge in your field, under appropriate supervision.

Please note, a master by coursework (such as an MBA) involves enrolling in selected courses and participating in lectures and tutorials (online or on campus). It is different to a master of research.

Find out more about our  research projects .

Why do a research degree?

UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. We are vibrant, outward-facing and responsive. We partner with industry, government and communities to seek answers to questions that arise in the real world. 

Learn more about our research .

The transformed PhD

UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed research that supports employer-relevant curriculum. To achieve this, and to produce entrepreneurial and business-aware graduates, we have developed the transformed PhD.

We have added a structured component to research degrees including enhanced skill development, supervisory panels and a technology-enabled oral defence of the thesis. Through these activities you will develop a set of professional, transferable skills relevant to our knowledge-based enterprise economy.

The aim of the transformed PhD is to increase your employment prospects in any career path. You will possess the knowledge, expertise and confidence to meet the emerging needs of academia, industry, government and the community.

Four good reasons to do a research degree

  • Challenge yourself. You will need to work hard, be dedicated and think analytically at a high level. You will tackle completely new research and different research methods, or extend research already undertaken.
  • Increase your career opportunities. A research degree provides evidence of independent thought and the ability to manage a research project in a given timeframe. Your research could allow you to develop a new specialisation, academic field or career. A research degree at UniSA will also allow you to develop a skillset which sets you apart, putting you at the centre of your professional development.
  • Make your ideas public. Your research findings may be published, presented at conferences, provide a commercial return and have a positive impact on society.
  • Contribute to society. Discover new methods, understandings and techniques, and solve a real-world problem.

What can I research?

Research students have the opportunity to undertake exciting and innovative research in the broad field of Education.

Our research is facilitated by a range of different research communities, including the Centre for Islamic Thought and Education, the Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning, the Centre for Research in Educational and Social Inclusion, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. 

You may also choose to study an alternate subject matter that does not fit within these research communities. To do this you must find a suitable supervisor who specialises in this field.

Find a research area

To find a research area, you'll need to match your qualifications and interests to the  research projects  offered at UniSA. These have been developed by teams of academics who will supervise you during your research degree.

Scholarships and projects

A scholarship allows you to focus on your research without needing to do paid work. At UniSA, you can explore high achiever scholarships, vacation research scholarships, as well as Vice Chancellor and President’s scholarships.

We also offer thematically-based scholarships. These scholarships will not only address local, national and international grand challenges, they will also ensure you work across the University, with industry, and with community partners.

Learn more about available scholarships .

Graduate outcomes

There are seven identified graduate qualities and outcomes that result from doing a research degree at UniSA. Importantly, these competencies are transferable to the workplace, whether academic or professional. In brief, a research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

  • understands, can contribute to and critique current research-based knowledge in their field
  • is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence
  • is an effective problem solver and researcher
  • can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher
  • is committed to ethical action and social responsibility
  • communicates research knowledge effectively
  • demonstrates international perspectives in research

Read about our  research degree graduate qualities  in more detail.

Why Doctor of Philosophy

Why this Degree

UniSA provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment where you are encouraged to explore your own ideas under the supervision of some of Australia’s leading researchers.

Career outcomes

Your career.

A PhD will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in academia, or in research with a research institution or university. Alternatively, you may choose to work in your chosen specialisation. For students of Aboriginal Studies there are a range of employment options, including:

  • ongoing research in Aboriginal Studies
  • teaching and lecturing in Aboriginal Studies
  • policy development
  • government and non-government organisations involved in Aboriginal health, housing, education and employment

Advanced research experience may also be the gateway to the Australian Public Service or leading NGOs, where you will be qualified to work across a range of sectors.

Before applying, you will need to do some investigation. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of preparing your application to maximise your chances of success.

Please check the  research degrees calendar for all key dates.

Eligibility

Check to see if you meet the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for.

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more .

More scholarships

Research Training Program international (RTPi) and University Presidents Scholarship

These scholarships will cover your tuition fees and your overseas health cover, and provide and a stipend (living allowance).

Learn more arrow-small-right

Research Themes PhD Scholarships

These scholarships address local, national and international grand challenges, and encourage collaboration with industry and community partners.

Australia’s University of Enterprise

Study at South Australia’s No. 1 university for graduate careers* and unlock your full potential.

*ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

What others are saying

My PhD is investigating the ways in which the culture and practices can foster students’ sense of belonging as a foundation for their engagement in learning. This experience has exposed me to more learning experiences than I ever anticipated and I am very grateful for that.

Megan Curry

Megan Curry

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

Opportunities exist to study at Magill and City West campus, depending on your area of research.

Your study spaces

Student accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Find out more

For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/Research/Degrees/

You are eligible for a range of scholarships and grants as a current research student. For example, the prestigious Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarship, Maurice de Rohan International Travel Scholarships or one of UniSA’s International Travel Grants. See Scholarships and Prizes for more information.

The world’s 5th most liveable city, Adelaide is welcoming and multicultural. It is an ideal home away from home.

International students

UniSA welcomes students from around the world. Discover what you can study, how to apply, and our support services.

Accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long- or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

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UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2025-2026

UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2025-2026: Unisa phd fees

The University of South Africa provides a diverse range of doctorate degrees in a variety of areas of study. A doctorate, often known as a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or a professional doctorate, is the highest level of academic achievement and is usually sought by those who want to make substantial contributions to knowledge in their field of study.

Doctoral degrees at UNISA allow students to conduct original research, acquire advanced analytical and critical thinking abilities, and become experts in their chosen field. A doctorate is an academic degree awarded by Universities. It is also a research degree that qualifies someone to teach at the university level in the degree’s field or to work in a specific profession.

READ: UNISA Human Science Courses 2025-2026

Doctoral programmes at UNISA are primarily academic-focused, with students working closely with a supervisor or a team of supervisors who help them throughout their research journey. Students must do original research, contribute significantly to their field of study, and write a doctoral thesis or dissertation that exhibits their research results and ideas.

The length of a PhD programme at UNISA varies, but it typically takes three to six years to complete. The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers various Doctoral degree programmes. Some of these are listed below:

  • Doctor of Business Leadership (90071)
  • Doctor of Laws Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure (98602 – CRI)
  • Doctor of Laws Jurisprudence (98602 – JUR)
  • Doctor of Laws Mercantile Law (98602 – MCL)
  • Doctor of Laws Private Law (98602 – PRL)
  • Doctor of Laws Public Constitutional and International Law (98602 – CIL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Development Studies) (90040 – DST)
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Philosophy) (90040 – PHL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy Science, Engineering and Technology (90040 – SET)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Auditing (90026 – AUE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Financial Accounting (90026 – FAC)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Financial Governance (90026 – GOV)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Financial Intelligence (90026 – INT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Management Accounting (90026 – MAC)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting Sciences Taxation (90026 – TAX)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture (90018)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Anthropology (90031)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Mathematics (98972)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Archaeology (90032)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Art (90020): UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2022-2023
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Astronomy (98974)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (98976)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Communication (90028)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (98803)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Consumer Science (98029)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice Corrections Management (90039 – CMA)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice Criminology and Security Management (90039 – CSM)

READ: UNISA College of Graduate Studies 2025

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice Police Science, Forensic Science and Technology (90039 – PFS)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (90022)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Adult Education) (90019 – ADE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Comparative Education) (90019 – CED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Curriculum Studies) (90019 – CUS)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Early Childhood Development) (90019 – ECD)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Educational Management) (90019 – EDM)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Environmental Education) (90019 – ENE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (History of Education) (90019 – HED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Inclusive Education) (90019 – IED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Language Education) (90019 – LED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Mathematics Education) (90019 – MED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Natural Science Education) (90019 – NSE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Open Distance Learning) (90019 – ODL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Philosophy of Education) (90019 – PED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Socio-Education) (90019 – SED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Technology Education) (90019 – TED)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management (98006)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science (98009)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Geography (98012)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in History (90033): UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2022-2023
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Information Science (90035)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems (98804)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (African Languages) (90041 – AFL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Afrikaans) (90041 – AFK)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Arabic) (90041 – ARB)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Classical Studies) (90041 – CSN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (English) (90041 – ENG)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (French) (90041 – FRN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Italian) (90041 – ITL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Linguistics) (90041 – LIN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Portuguese) (90041 – PRT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Semitic Languages) (90041 – SML)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Theory of Literature) (90041 – TLT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature (Translation Studies) (90041 – TLS)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Law (90023)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences (90012)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Business Management) (90021 – BMA)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Entrepreneurship) (90021 – ENT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Finance, Risk Management, and Banking) (90021 – FIN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Human Resource Management) (90021 – HRM)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (International Business) (90021 – INB)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Logistics, Transport Economics, Purchasing, and Supply Chain) (90021 – SUP)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Marketing) (90021 – MKT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Operations Management) (90021 – OPM)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Tourism) (90021 – TOU)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics (98979)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Music (90027): UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2022-2023
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (90029)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Operations Research (98598)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Ornamental Horticulture and Landscaping (90170)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Physics (98981)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Political Sciences (African Politics) (90034 – APL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Political Sciences (International Politics) (90034 – INP)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Political Sciences (Politics) (90034 – PCS)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (98555)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Consulting Psychology) (90042 – CON)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Industrial and Organisational Psychology) (90042 – IOP)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Psychology of Education) (90058 – PSY)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration (90024)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health (90143)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies (Ancient Near Eastern Studies) (90044 – ANE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies (Biblical Archaeology) (90044 – BAR)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies (Islamic Studies) (90044 – ISL)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies (Judaica) (90044 – JDC)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies (Religious Studies) (90044 – RST)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies Biblical Studies (New Testament) (90044 – BSN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies Biblical Studies (Old Testament) (90044 – BST)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology (90068): UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2022-2023
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics (98984)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Christian Spirituality) (90043 – CSP)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Church History) (90043 – CHI)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Missiology) (90043 – MSN)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (New Testament) (90043 – NTE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Old Testament) (90043 – OTE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Pastoral Therapy) (90043 – PPT)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Practical Theology) (90043 – PTH)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Systematic Theology) (90043 – STH)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Theological Ethics) (90043 – THE)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Urban Ministry) (90043 – UBM)
  • Doctor of Psychology (90036)
  • Doctor of Social Work (90037)

READ: Doctorate Degree Unisa 2025

UNISA Contact Information

Please contact Unisa at the following address:

  • Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
  • Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):
  • Cnr Justice Mahomed & Steve Biko Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria
  • Tel: 0800 005 311
  • Email: [email protected]

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is at the forefront of offering outstanding doctorate programmes, supporting research excellence, and empowering individuals to become leading experts in their fields of study. By enrolling in doctorate studies at UNISA, ambitious researchers receive access to a world-class learning environment, renowned instructors, and the tools needed to make a lasting influence on society. Visit Unisa’s Official Website .

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  • Apply for admission 2024

Master's & doctoral degrees

  • Qualifications
  • All qualifications
  • College of Accounting Sciences
  • College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
  • College of Economic and Management Sciences
  • College of Education
  • College of Human Sciences
  • College of Law
  • College of Science, Engineering and Technology
  • Graduate School of Business Leadership

Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management

Closing date for applications for admission to master's and doctoral qualifications for 2024 academic year (some exceptions apply) extended to 31 january 2024..

Qualification code: 98006
Qualification type: Full Research
NQF level: 10
Total credits: 360
SAQA ID: 111057

Admission requirements

Student fees and funding your studies.

  • Application for admission

Registration

An appropriate Master's Degree in Environmental Management or a related field. In the case of a course work Master's Degree the applicant must submit a PDF version of the research project that formed part of such a degree. All students with foreign qualifications, including those with qualifications from African countries, must have their qualifications evaluated at SAQA. (www.saqa.org.za) In addition to the above requirements, all applicants must submit a transcript or an academic record, an updated CV as well as a 5-page PDF concept document describing their intended research. Guidelines for compiling the document can be found on the departmental website. Students will be accepted on the following criteria: Suitability and viability of the intended research; Adequate supervisory capacity and research expertise in the department. An approved selection procedure which is in line with Unisa's policies on equality and diversity in the discipline or department will be implemented. Students, who are awaiting Masters examination results, must still submit applications by the due date. Applications will be considered once results become available.

Time limits for this degree

All master's and doctoral qualifications are structured over a defined period. Refer to sections 4.12 and 4.13 in the Procedures for master’s and doctoral degrees .

A student registered for a research doctoral programme must complete the study programme within six years. A student may make application to the Registrar for one additional year of study who will only consider the application if it is recommended by the Executive Dean of the College in which the student is registered.

Doctoral degree

A doctoral degree will require you to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis. Coursework may be required as preparation or value addition to the research, but does not contribute to the credit value of the qualification. The defining characteristic of this qualification is that you will be required to demonstrate high-level research capability and make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of the discipline or field. This work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication.

Research focus areas

Click here  to view a list of departments and research focus areas for the College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences.

Research outline

Unisa’s admission policy has changed and you are now required to submit a detailed research outline for the qualification for which you apply. No application submitted without a detailed research outline will be considered. Although this research outline may differ for each qualification or academic department, the basic information required is as follows:

  • Summary of topic
  • Short literature review
  • Expected contribution of the study
  • Methodology to be followed
  • Availability of the data
  • List of references
  • Reasons why you are interested in the topic

Click here  for the guidelines on how to prepare a research outline. 

Plagiarism of any form is unacceptable. Please take note of Unisa's Policy for Copyright Infringement and Plagiarism .

Application fee

Pay the online application fee of R135,00 once you have received your Unisa student number.

Please note: 

  • The application fee is non-refundable even if you decide not to study through Unisa or do not qualify for admission to Unisa.
  • Use the student number you receive from Unisa AND the application fee reference number (eg STUDENTNUMBER 5370810030). 
  • Send your proof of payment to [email protected]  
  • Visit www.unisa.ac.za/paymentinfo  for Unisa's payment methods and banking details. 

An application for a student number does not constitute an application for admission. After you receive your student number, you must still complete the online application for admission process and  upload the compulsory supporting documents. 

Student fees

Click here for the 2023 student fee information. The fee information for the 2024 academic year will be available at the time of registration. 

Students registering for qualifications through the Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL) should visit the  SBL website for fee information, as the SBL uses a different fee structure.

Click here for student funding/bursary opportunities.

Apply for a student number and apply for admission

Applications for admission to master's and doctoral qualifications for the 2024 academic year will be open from 11 September to 14 November 2023 ( some exceptions apply ).

Click here  to apply for a student number and apply for admission.

Please ensure that you apply for a Unisa student number (if applicable), apply for admission and upload all the supporting documents during the application period.

You have 10 working days to upload all the supporting documents during the application period. If you do not comply with this requirement, your application will be declined and you will have to re-apply for admission during the next application period.

Only students whose application for admission was approved and re-registering students (who made sufficient progress during the current academic year) will be allowed to register online within the approved registration period for the 2023 academic year. Students with outstanding fees or a Library block on their accounts, will not be able to register online until these issues have been resolved. No printed registration forms will be accepted.

Click here  for registration information.

IMAGES

  1. Graduates encouraged to further explore educational trajectories

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  2. The UniSA PhD

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  3. UniSA PhD students partner with local industry to boost

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  4. Unisa Chancellor presides over his first regional graduation

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  5. University of South Australia PhD funding for International Students

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  6. UniSA PhD International Scholarships in Applied Mathematics, 2021

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COMMENTS

  1. Doctor of Philosophy

    Research degrees offered at UniSA Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Produces graduates with the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality. By the end of the degree, a PhD student will be capable of independently designing and executing original research that generates new knowledge, understandings and ...

  2. The UniSA PhD

    The UniSA PhD provides an opportunity for existing, and prospective partners to engage with UniSA to: Access new knowledge and insights that benefit your business. Have the opportunity to spot new talent. Provide your organisation with staff development opportunities, and. Shape the direction of research and knowledge coming from UniSA.

  3. Doctor of Philosophy

    The UniSA STEM environment is diverse and multicultural, with over 300 academic researchers and over 330 PhD students, located at our Mawson Lakes and City East campuses. Across our Academic Units, research institutes and research centres work collaboratively in cross-disciplinary teams to produce outstanding learning outcomes and research results.

  4. Master's & doctoral degrees

    All master's and doctoral applications and enquiries must be submitted online. For any master's or doctoral enquiries, please send an e-mail to [email protected] . GSBL students must direct their enquiries to the relevant e-mail address: [email protected] / [email protected] or [email protected]. Start the process. Last modified: 2024/02/14.

  5. Doctor of Philosophy

    UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. ... The transformed PhD. UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed ...

  6. Research degrees

    For any queries about undertaking a research degree at the University of South Australia please contact the Research Degree Admissions team. We can provide you with further information about your area of research interest. Research Degree Admissions. p: +61 8 8302 5880. e: [email protected].

  7. Doctor of Philosophy

    UniSA Business is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide 1 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2022.; Gain a competitive edge in industry by completing a PhD in business, with access to a broad range of research topics and projects across areas across commerce, management, marketing and more.; Join a community of scholars recognised for world ...

  8. The UniSA PhD

    Study at UniSA. Study with us . Study and career areas ; How to apply; Entry pathways; Scholarships

  9. Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (98555)

    Doctor of Philosophy (90040) - SET, MAT, TEC, CHE, COM, LIF, AST, STA, SCE & PHY options. Master of Science in Nature Conservation (Full Dissertation) (98022) Qualifications in the Department of Decision Science: Master of Science (98597 - ORE), the PhD in Operations Research (98598) and the MCom in Quantitative Management (98701) Click here ...

  10. Apply for admission to study for Master's or Doctoral degrees

    Apply for admission to study for Master's or Doctoral degrees ...

  11. Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies

    There is an approved selection procedure which is in line with Unisa's policies on equality and diversity in the discipline or department. Time limits for this degree. All master's and doctoral qualifications are structured over a defined period. Refer to sections 4.12 and 4.13 in the Procedures for master's and doctoral degrees.

  12. All qualifications

    Doctoral Degrees. Doctor of Business Leadership (90071) Doctor of Education (Adult Education) (90038 - ADE) ... [email protected]. Visit us. Main campus: Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria. Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):

  13. 1. Check your eligibility

    a relevant Bachelor degree (or equivalent) of at least 3 years with a minimum credit average; or. an Honours degree or a Bachelor degree with honours; or. a relevant Masters degree; or. satisfy the Dean of Research that your previous education, relevant professional experience and published research work is of sufficient quality and relevance ...

  14. PhD

    UniSA is the largest university in South Australia, with 36,156 students, 2396 staff, five campuses (four in Adelaide and one in Whyalla) and an annual revenue in excess of $457 million. As the leading provider of international education in the state we also are a significant contributor to South Australia's economic growth and prosperity.

  15. University of South Africa (UNISA)

    The University of South Africa (Unisa), the only higher education institution to carry the name of the country, is the people's university in every sense of the word. #851 Ranking. 48 PhDs. 193,543 Students. 9,677 Students (int'l)

  16. 2. Find a research project

    Find a research project. 2. Find a research project. You will need to submit an application to an established research project. Our research projects have been set up by expert research teams, with a nominated Principal Supervisor and, in some cases, financial support like a scholarship to streamline the application process to UniSA.

  17. Qualifications

    Find a qualification based on a college. All master's and doctoral degrees. Accounting Sciences. Agriculture & Environmental Sciences. Economic & Management Sciences. Education. Human Sciences. Law. Science, Engineering & Technology.

  18. Investigating Supplier Diversity Programs Within Australian Supply Chains

    About this project Help address diversity issues in supply chains If you are seeking a challenging career in logistics and procurement and keen to help improve diversity and inclusion in local and global supply chains, the University of South Australia - Australia's University of Enterprise - is offering a hands-on project-based PhD with world impact within the Centre for Enterprise ...

  19. Doctor of Philosophy

    Research degrees offered at UniSA Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Produces graduates with the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality. By the end of the degree, UniSA's PhD students are capable of independently designing and executing original research which generates new knowledge (three to four years ...

  20. Law, Ph.D.

    A doctoral degree in Law at the University of South Africa (UNISA) will require you to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis. University of South Africa (UNISA) Johannesburg , South Africa. Top 5% worldwide. Studyportals University Meta Ranking.

  21. How to apply

    A step-by-step guide. Research degree applications are made through our secure online portal. At UniSA, all research degree applications are made to a specific project as listed on our research projects page. Some projects have living allowance scholarship funding, and all projects list the Principal Supervisor. New projects are listed ...

  22. Doctor of Philosophy

    UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World's Top Young Universities 2, ... (PhD), Professional Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications) or Master of Research.

  23. UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2025-2026

    UNISA Doctoral Degrees 2025-2026. Doctoral programmes at UNISA are primarily academic-focused, with students working closely with a supervisor or a team of supervisors who help them throughout their research journey. Students must do original research, contribute significantly to their field of study, and write a doctoral thesis or dissertation ...

  24. Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management (98006)

    Apply for a student number and apply for admission. Applications for admission to master's and doctoral qualifications for the 2024 academic year will be open from 11 September to 14 November 2023 (some exceptions apply).Click here to apply for a student number and apply for admission.. Please ensure that you apply for a Unisa student number (if applicable), apply for admission and upload all ...