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This collaborative PhD, delivered by Australian Catholic University (ACU) and global Catholic university partners, enables candidates to complete a single doctorate under joint supervision, with research focused on humanism across historical and contemporary contexts.
The PhD in Contemporary Humanism program aims to develop knowledge and critical skills in reading and interpreting the historical, cultural, literary, philosophical and educational tradition in its making, and in its effects on the present, from the point of view of the category of "humanism".
The international and interdisciplinary structure of the program aims to provide an adequate context not only for an integrated "humanistic approach", but also for an integral education of students through a blend of styles and methods of research and teaching, beyond disciplinary and national boundaries.
In addition to the development of specific scientific and methodological competences calibrated on each curriculum, the program's common goals are to consolidate and improve:
Australian Catholic University is a mission-driven university with a strong commitment to research that serves the common good. Through interdisciplinary, people-centred scholarship, ACU contributes academic leadership, global engagement and a focus on human dignity and social impact to the design and delivery of this program.
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile is a leading Catholic university in Latin America, recognised for its strong tradition of academic excellence and public engagement. Through this partnership, it contributes deep expertise and a global perspective to the program's teaching and research.
The Institut Catholique de Paris brings a long-standing intellectual tradition grounded in theology, philosophy and the humanities. Its contribution enriches the program through rigorous scholarship and a strong commitment to dialogue between faith, culture and contemporary society.
Libera Università Maria SS. Assunta (LUMSA) is a Catholic university based in Rome with a focus on ethics, social sciences and human development. Its participation strengthens the program's engagement with European scholarship and applied, values-led research.
Universidade Católica Portuguesa is a nationally and internationally respected Catholic university with strengths across the humanities, social sciences and applied research. As a partner, it contributes interdisciplinary expertise and a strong connection between research, policy and practice.
Lyon Catholic University offers a distinctive interdisciplinary approach to research and education, with a strong emphasis on ethics, social responsibility and innovation. Its involvement supports the program's commitment to addressing contemporary challenges through values-driven scholarship.
| Study mode |
Joint PhD - Successful applicants will be enrolled as a doctoral student for the entire period of candidature at both ACU and their chosen partner university. |
|---|---|
| Duration |
Full-time for up to 3 years |
| Location |
The successful applicant will spend a research period of at least 12 months at one of the partner universities. The remaining candidature will be based at ACU. |
| Supervision |
Candidates are supported by a binational supervision team from ACU and their chosen partner university. |
| Language |
English |
| Scholarship |
The successful applicant will be awarded a stipend scholarship. Domestic applicants will automatically be awarded a Research Training Program Fees Offset Scholarship and will be exempt from paying fees to the overseas partner university. |
This joint PhD is designed for high-calibre researchers committed to scholarship with global relevance, societal impact, and a strong ethical foundation.
The successful applicant must be approved for admission by both ACU and the partner university. The program is suited to applicants who:
Step 1: Assess your eligibility
Before you apply, confirm you meet the following eligibility criteria:
Step 2: Submit your application
To be considered for this joint PhD, applicants must submit all documentation required for an application to the PhD program at ACU, as detailed in the How to Apply instructions, plus a cover letter detailing demonstrated interest and/or experience in the contemporary humanism program.
Get in touch to learn more about graduate research at ACU
Email: grad.research@acu.edu.auContact us to explore how you could collaborate with our graduate researchers.
Email: grs.partnerships@acu.edu.au