The Department of Business offers programs leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil). Entry to the Business doctoral program is selective, and the number of students accepted into the program each year is limited.

The purpose of a research degree is to assist the student to conduct scholarly research. Graduates must demonstrate the ability to produce significant original research work that adds to prior knowledge of finance or accounting.

Degree Options

A PhD will interest students with strong academic records who are interested in an academic career. A PhD will also interest students who wish to extend their depth of knowledge in a specialised area with a view to a career in finance or accounting. A doctorate is the usual pathway to a research and teaching career in universities, and can be a pathway to positions in the research arms of professional accounting and financial institutions.

A Master of Philosophy provides another pathway towards a PhD for students with a Bachelor degree without an Honours or strong research background. Like the PhD, it will prepare students for positions in professional and government organisations which require research expertise.

Areas of Research

Applicants for research degrees are expected to investigate the Division Research areas and the Business Department Areas of Research Interest, and to contact potential staff supervisors in their areas of interest prior to completing their application.  Candidates for research degrees can be accepted only where suitable specialised supervision is available.

Thesis

Examination is by thesis for research degrees. Thesis lengths vary but it is expected that a Masters thesis is shorter than Doctoral thesis. Generally a Masters thesis has a maximum of 50000 words and a Doctoral thesis a maximum of 80000 words. Non-traditional theses as well as traditional dissertations may be presented in accordance with approved University guidelines.