Higher Degree by Research Application Process

The application process for entry into a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program in the School of Social Science involves several steps. Becoming an HDR student in the School requires you to meet the entry requirements of the UQ Graduate School and also to gain the support of the School.

The School of Social Science only supports applications from candidates who clearly demonstrate the ability to complete a high-quality Higher Degree by Research. Obtaining School support is not an automatic process and requires the applicant to do more than simply meet minimum entry requirements.

We recommend that applicants start the School's process 2 to 3 months prior to the UQ Graduate School’s deadlines for online applications. This will allow the applicant sufficient time to gather the relevant documentation and to prepare a competitive research proposal, and afford the School sufficient time to review your application.

There are four steps to gaining support from the School. Throughout this application process the applicant must send application materials to the School’s HDR Liaison Officer (HLO), who will be your primary point of contact (hdr.socialscience@enquire.uq.edu.au). The HLO will liaise with, and assist, the applicant throughout the process.