Research. Knowledge. Wisdom.

ACU develops innovative solutions to issues impacting human dignity and the common good, delivering real-world social, cultural and economic gain.

Today, ACU is a globally recognised university ranked #1 in Australia and in the world's top 20 by proportion of publications in the top citation profiles across all fields of research.1

As a higher degree research student, you can study in ACU's world-class research environment, supported by leading researchers in your area of enquiry.

  • We're proud to be ranked first in Australia for research quality in the Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 World University Rankings.
  • Over 50 of our experts are recognised as the top 2% of scientists globally.

Measuring our impact

Ranked 1st in Australia for scientific impact across all disciplines2
Ranked1st in research quality in psychology.3
Global #12 for research quality in education.3
Top100 young universities 3

Start your journey here

Complete the form below to receive more information about higher degree research and scholarship opportunities at ACU.

Apply for the ACU Vice-Chancellor's PhD Excellence Scholarship

Applications close: 1 October 2025, 11.59PM AEST

With a limited number of spots, this is your opportunity to secure a fully funded PhD at ACU, complete with a 100% tuition waiver, an indexed annual stipend, and allowances for health cover and relocation.

A world-leading research community

Choose from master's or doctoral research degrees and start building your research legacy through the creation of new knowledge in your chosen field.

Join our thriving community of higher degree research candidates who are contributing to human progress in Australia and beyond.

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1 - CWTS Leiden 2023
2- Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
3 - Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023

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