Griffith's higher degree by research (HDR) programs have different requirements for entry and completion. For general information on available HDR programs, please refer to the research programs and requirements. For specific program entry requirements, see the degree finder.

To apply for admission to a higher degree by research (HDR) program at Griffith, follow these steps:

1. Choose your HDR program.
2. Find and connect with a research supervisor.
3. Consider fees and scholarships.
4. Develop a research proposal.
5. Apply online.

For more information about the application process, including key dates and required documents, please see Applying for a PhD or research degree. To learn more about higher degree by research at Griffith, download a copy of the higher degree by research study guide.

You can find advice on higher degree by research (HDR) programs on our research study website. This includes information about programs, scholarships, finding a supervisor, how to apply, and support services and resources. 

Once we've received all the required documents - including at least one referee report - we will begin reviewing your application.

You can log in at any time to check the status of your application.

We'll keep you updated by email and let you know the outcome as soon as it's available.

• If you're applying for admission only, the review process usually takes about 6-8 weeks.
• If you're applying for admission and scholarship, the review process usually takes longer. If you are applying for an open merit scholarship, refer to the Apply page "after you apply" information for outcome dates.

To ensure your application is processed as quickly as possible, you need to: 

• contact potential supervisors and obtain confirmation of their agreement to supervise your proposed research topic before applying
• submit all the supporting documentation requested in the online application
• encourage your academic referees to return their referee reports promptly.

For more information about the application process, including what documents are required and tips for applying for scholarship, please see Applying for a PhD or research degree

HDR stands for higher degree by research. HDR programs are postgraduate university degrees that involve a unique, supervised research project. These degrees are a Masters by Research or Philosophy or a Doctoral degree. For an overview of HDR programs available at Griffith, please see PhDs and research degrees

To find available supervisors at Griffith University, you can search the Griffith Experts website or contact the higher degree by research (HDR) convenor for your proposed research area for assistance. For further information, please see the project information on our How to apply page

At Griffith, we're committed to making a difference. To play our part, no matter how large or small, in advancing human knowledge, creating solutions and driving societal, economic, cultural, technological and environmental change.

Impact has been adopted as the guiding principle of Griffith Research and Innovation Plan 2021-2025.

Research is one of the key platforms through which the University has the capacity to exert influence, to transform lives and offer solutions to the world’s biggest challenges. This influence can be seen leading industry, protecting the environment, making medical breakthroughs, and changing policy and practice. Here, we showcase some of the Griffith University research projects with real and measurable impact that is making a better world. Our world-class researchers tackle local and global challenges, providing solutions that will help ensure a more robust, equitable and environmentally sustainable society to be enjoyed by future generations.