Transfer from Professional Doctorate to Doctor of Philosophy or Masters by Research

For domestic students, dependent upon the duration of candidature and the amount of Research Training Program support already used by the student, tuition fees may apply.

For international students, tuition fees will continue to apply.

If you are changing supervisors, you should also complete the HDR Application to Change Supervisory Team.

How to prepare

• read Higher Degrees by Research Policy Section 4.6.
• read HDR Admission and Enrolment Procedures Section 6.
• consult your supervisor (you may still apply if they disagree).
• organise documentary evidence to support your request. Provide a statement in support of your case for transferring from a Professional Doctorate to PhD or Masters candidature which includes:
  • A summary of work to date and a description of how it can be changed into a Masters / PhD project
  • A completion plan for the proposed Masters/PhD project (which includes details and expected completion dates for draft chapters and any additional field work, data analysis, or laboratory work required for the project).
• confirm your contact and candidature details in the Student Information System.     

How to apply

• Complete the request online in Inspire and submit it at least four weeks before the proposed change. Please also complete the Completion Plan, and submit with your application.
• If you submit your application after the census date it may affect your Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset or international tuition fees.
• You may seek changes to prior enrolment periods only if extenuating circumstances exist and you must include supporting evidence such as medical documentation for the Dean of Graduate Research to review.
• The Office of Graduate Research will notify you of the outcome via your Flinders email address.