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The University of Divinity has a long tradition of research excellence and produces world-class research in all theological disciplines. The School of Graduate Research (SGR) fosters a high-quality learning environment for higher degree by research (HDR) students and their supervisors from pre-admission information through to post-candidature guidance and networking.
The engaging research culture at the University of Divinity includes three higher degrees by research and a research methodology unit available to students, regular conferences, seminars and access to world-class visiting scholars.
All higher degree by research students and their supervisors become members of the School of Graduate Research (SGR). Members are entitled to a range of programs to support their successful completion, including an orientation program, annual Research Conference, HREC training, Thesis Boot Camp, and Research Methodologies.
A research degree is a very different experience from coursework study, so take your time to explore the information in these pages, consider your options and talk with prospective supervisors and our SGR team.
All applications given below must be submitted before the close of business (5pm AEST) of the advertised due date, unless otherwise indicated.
You can apply for a research degree at any time of the year. Commencement of study will be February, May, August or November. Please allow approximately two months between submitting your application and being approved to commence study.
Name | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
DPP Orientation Day | 21 February 2026 | 20 February 2027 |
DPP Term 1 Commences | 23 February 2026 | 22 February 2027 |
Applications Close: HREC (Round 1) | 13 March 2026 | TBC |
DPP Term 1 Concludes | 19 April 2026 | 18 April 2027 |
DPP Term 2 Commences | 27 April 2026 | 26 April 2027 |
Research Day | 3 June 2026 | TBC |
Applications Close: HREC (Round 2) | 5 June 2026 | TBC |
DPP Term 2 Concludes | 21 June 2026 | 20 June 2027 |
DPP Term 3 Commences | 27 July 2026 | 26 July 2027 |
DPP Term 3 Concludes | 20 September 2026 | 19 September 2027 |
DPP Term 4 Commences | 28 September 2026 | 27 September 2027 |
Applications close: Doctor of Professional Practice (February intake following year ) | 2 October 2026 | 1 October 2027 |
Application Close: HREC (Round 3) | 6 November 2026 | TBC |
HDR Annual Reports Due | 15 November 2026 | 15 November 2027 |
Applications Close: Research Fee Scholarships (HDR) | 15 November 2026 | 15 November 2027 |
Applications Close: Research Stipend Scholarships (HDR) | 15 November 2026 | 15 November 2027 |
DPP Term 4 Concludes | 22 November 2026 | 21 November 2027 |
Contact the team at the School of Graduate Research for enquiries and assistance about becoming a research student, support for current students, and HDR supervision.
Professor Liz Boase
BAppSci (Speech and Hearing), BD(Honours), PhD
Liz is a Professor of the University and the Dean of the School of Graduate Research. Liz is responsible for the higher degree by research and minor thesis programs, including oversight of candidates and supervisors, and the delivery of programs that support successful completion, including teaching a unit on research methodologies. Liz chairs the School of Graduate Research Committee and is a member of the University Executive, the Academic Board, and the Research Strategy Committee.
Dr Rebekah Pryor
BAppSci(Hons), GradCertVisArts, PhD
Rebekah directs the Doctor of Professional Practice program within the School of Graduate Research. She is an artist and scholar whose interdisciplinary research focuses on embodiment (particularly in terms of sex, gender and sexuality) and how this is experienced, constructed, represented and renegotiated in material cultures and communities of belief.
Dr Suman Kashyap
MSc, MPhil, BEd, PhD
Suman provides a high level of administrative support to the Dean and members of the School of Graduate Research, including higher degree by research students, minor thesis students, and their supervisors. She administers the systems and processes which support the research training environment, assist in coordination of these activities and manages procedures from admission to graduation for higher degree by research students. She ensures successful completion by providing accurate and timely information about compliance requirements and supports the approval and examinations of the minor thesis and higher degree by research theses.
Members (HDR students and staff) join the School of Graduate Research through a College. In addition to the facilities available at your home college, members of the SGR can use the facilities at the University’s St Paschal Campus, in Box Hill, Victoria.
Situated on quiet residential streets, the central buildings of the estate are surrounded by lush gardens and lawns. The site has been a place of religious significance and a hub for educational excellence throughout its history.
Student and Staff Dining Room
A dedicated area for students and staff to gather and meet informally during the week.
Tea and coffee making
Kitchen facilities are available next to the dining room.
Free wifi
Available throughout the campus.
Zoom room
Available for quiet study, zoom meetings, or to record a research presentation.
Meeting rooms
Enquire at reception to make a booking. Fees may apply.
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Members of the School of Graduate Research are able to access all Libraries that are part of the University of Divinity as well as a dedicated online Library Hub.
Libraries at St Paschal Campus
Two library facilities are available on the same campus property as the SGR offices at St Paschal Campus. St Paschal Library, and the Whitley Library. Both libraries include individual study desks for quiet work.
https://divinity.edu.au/sgr
