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Join a globally recognised research community where academic excellence is matched by a deep commitment to human dignity, ethical practice and the common good. At ACU, you can pursue research that is both rigorous and meaningful - supported by expert supervision, world-class environments and a culture that invests in your long-term development as a researcher and professional.
When you research at ACU, your work is backed by a university recognised for excellence on the world stage:
This reputation reflects the strength of our research culture, the calibre of our supervision and the global relevance of the work undertaken by our research community.
You'll be guided by experienced, accredited supervisors who are active researchers in their fields and committed to your success. Our supervisors provide clear guidance, constructive feedback and mentoring throughout your candidature.
This supportive supervision helps you build confidence, independence and a strong research profile over time.
At ACU, research is grounded in our mission to advance human flourishing in all its dimensions - social, cultural, moral, spiritual and physical. Our researchers address challenges that matter, from improving learning and wellbeing to advancing ethical leadership, social justice and community resilience.
You'll be supported to develop research that contributes to knowledge and delivers meaningful impact beyond academia, including through engagement with policy, practice and communities.
You'll undertake your research in an environment built to support your success. At ACU, a strong research environment means clear structure, consistent guidance and support that enables both academic excellence and personal wellbeing.
Through the Graduate Research School, you'll receive structured candidature support, researcher and professional development opportunities, wellbeing support and access to a connected community of graduate researchers, helping you progress with confidence and build strong research capabilities.
Support your research with access to high-quality facilities, specialist equipment and digital infrastructure across ACU's campuses. Our research environment includes modern laboratories, libraries, collaborative spaces and discipline-specific resources designed to enable rigorous, contemporary research.
Whether your work is laboratory-based, practice-led or theoretically focused, you'll have access to the tools and environments needed to support your research.
Many of today's most complex challenges can't be addressed from a single disciplinary perspective. At ACU, you'll collaborate across disciplines, faculties, institutes and research centres.
Working with experts from different fields will broaden your thinking, strengthen your research and expose you to diverse perspectives, including global research networks.
ACU is committed to research that engages beyond the university. You may have opportunities to work with industry partners, government agencies, not-for-profit organisations and community groups through applied and industry-embedded research.
These connections enrich your research experience, support employability and help translate your work into real-world outcomes.
ACU offers flexibility in how and where you undertake your research, with campuses across Australia and an international campus in Rome. You can pursue your research in an environment that suits your goals, circumstances and research focus.
PHD students provide insight into studying higher degree research at ACU.
No matter where you are in your research journey, there's a clear pathway forward at ACU.
Explore flexible admission options.
Shape a research journey that works for you. Our admission options recognise your experience and help you find the right entry point into graduate research.
Connect with a supervisor.
Work with experienced, accredited supervisors who can help you refine your idea, shape your project and plan a successful research pathway.
Find scholarships and funded projects.
Access a range of scholarships and scholarship-supported research projects designed to support you financially while you build your research career.
Follow our step-by-step guide.
Check eligibility requirements, key dates and everything you need to submit a strong application for a research degree at ACU.
