phd finance adelaide

PhD in Finance

The PhD program in Finance at the Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics (RSFAS) equips graduates with the necessary skills to conduct research in the field of finance. The program will challenge PhD candidates to identify and solve important questions in the finance world, and will help them to develop a keen analytical mind essential for navigating the fast-changing financial marketplace and corporate sector.

While the program is focused on developing candidates for an academic career, many of the skills it provides are readily transferable to various positions in government and industry. Some examples are researchers or associates within the banking and financial sector, including investment banking, in roles such as investment or quantitative analysis, mergers and acquisitions analysis and business analysis; and researchers and policy advisers at institutions including central banks, bank regulators, international organisations such as the World Bank, IMF, OECD and ADB, and government departments such as Treasury and Finance.

CRICOS #: 048345A

Duration: 2 to 4 years full time (4 to 8 years part time)

Before you submit an application for entry to the program, you should:

• ensure you meet the admission requirements outlined below
• identify potential supervisors – that is, one or two finance academics at ANU who conduct research in your area of interest.

You can find information on researchers and their research areas in the  ANU researchers database  and on the  RSFAS Finance faculty  page.

While other ANU schools may recommend contacting potential supervisors before submitting an application,  this is not required  for entry into RSFAS’s PhD programs. Instead, you only need to list the name(s) of potential supervisors in your online application form.

Potential supervisors cannot guarantee entry into the PhD program. Admission will depend on the strength of your application relative to others in the pool.

After you’ve completed the steps above, you can proceed with an  online application .

Application deadlines

The first semester of the ANU academic year starts in February, and the second semester starts in July. While all applications for first semester entry must be submitted  before 31 October,  international applicants wishing to be considered for an  ANU scholarship  should submit their applications  before   31 August .

To be considered for a scholarship, your application must be accompanied by all the supporting documents listed below, including the referee reports. Request for referee reports are triggered and sent to your nominated referees at the time of submission of program application. It is thus important that you submit your application in advance (2-3 weeks) to allow time for your referees to provide their reports prior to the scholarship deadline.

If you’re currently completing an academic degree and haven’t yet received your final results and transcript, you should still submit all available documents before the deadline, and forward remaining results once you receive them. We won’t make a final decision on your application until we’ve received all the required documents.

The admission requirements for the PhD program in Finance reflect the advanced knowledge that candidates will need to undertake the coursework component of the degree, and the research experience and skills needed to successfully undertake and complete the research thesis.

The minimum qualification requirement for admission to the PhD program in Finance is:

• an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) with First Class Honours or Second Class Honours Division A in finance, actuarial studies, economics, business, commerce, or a subject area with a substantial quantitative content, or
• another qualification (e.g. a Master degree) with a substantial research thesis component that the RSFAS HDR (higher degree by research) committee is satisfied is equivalent or superior to a degree mentioned in (a), or
• a combination of qualifications and professional experience that the RSFAS HDR committee is satisfied is equivalent or superior to a degree mentioned in (a).

Admission to the PhD program in Finance is competitive and we can only admit a limited number of applicants each year. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee you a place in the program.

If you don’t have sufficient research experience for entry into the PhD program, you might consider applying to the MPhil program . If you’d like to consider this pathway, contact the RSFAS HDR convenor for more information.

English language requirements

All applicants must satisfy the University’s  English language admission requirements . An international applicant who is not a native English speaker may satisfy these requirements by submitting evidence of an  IELTS  overall score of at least 6.5, and with no component less than 6.0, or a paper-based  TOEFL  score of at least 570, with at least 4.5 in the essay component.

Application and supporting documentation

You must submit your application online via the  ANU Application Manager .

In addition to the standard information required in the online application, you must submit the following supporting documents as part of your application:

• a one-page statement of purpose outlining your motivation to undertake a PhD in Finance at ANU
• a research proposal – see details below, as well as these guidelines on how to  prepare a persuasive research proposal
• copies of written research work, e.g. honours or Master thesis, research project, or published works
• either  GRE General Test  or  GMAT  results completed within the last five years – some applicants are exempted from this requirement (see below for further information)
• official  TOEFL  or  IELTS  results (where applicable) to demonstrate that you satisfy the University’s  English language requirements .

Research proposal

The online application requires you to submit a research proposal. The proposal should set out an original research idea, provide an introduction or background to your research idea, clearly set out the research objectives, and explain why the research is important and the contribution it will make to the finance discipline. Among other things, you will need to demonstrate an understanding of the key literature in your chosen topic area. As a guide, you should aim for between 1,500 and 2,000 words, including a list of key references.

If you don’t have a prior degree in finance, your research proposal should present a puzzling and interesting real-world phenomenon in finance that could lead to an important research topic. You should aim to convince the RSFAS HDR committee that your proposal is relevant and interesting.

The RSFAS HDR committee uses the research proposal as an indicator to assess the quality and originality of your ideas and your skills in critical thinking. Note that the research proposal does not restrict you to this field of study should you be admitted to the PhD program.

GRE or GMAT requirement

You must submit either your  GRE General Test  or  GMAT  results as part of your application. You’re exempt from this requirement if you’ve already completed an ANU Master of Finance or ANU degree with honours in Finance. You’re also exempt if you’ve completed a Finance degree with honours from another Australian university, but we encourage you to provide GRE or GMAT results to improve your chances of admission and scholarship support.

Offers of admission

The RSFAS HDR committee will review all complete applications submitted by the relevant deadline.

If your application is short-listed, you may be required to attend an interview (face to face or online).

We may send you an offer of admission if you satisfy the eligibility criteria and your area of interest matches those of RSFAS academics with supervisory capacity. However, since admission is competitive and supervisory capacity is limited, we won’t send any offers of admission until  after the relevant application deadline , irrespective of the date when you submit your application.

The PhD in program in Finance consists of two components –  coursework  and  research .

Candidates undertake the research component after successfully completing the required coursework.

Assumed knowledge and pre-PhD preparation

While not a formal requirement for entry, you should be aware that the PhD coursework requirements outlined below assume knowledge equivalent to later-year undergraduate and graduate diploma–level studies in economics, finance and quantitative methods. The following is an indicative list of ANU subjects that make up the basic assumed knowledge:

• ECON8025  Advanced Microeconomic Analysis
• ECON8026  Advanced Macroeconomic Analysis
• EMET8005  Economic Models and Introductory Econometrics
• FINM8006  Advanced Investments
• FINM8004  Advanced Corporate Finance

PhD coursework component

In the coursework component, PhD candidates undertake a comprehensive set of courses designed to provide training in the theory and methods necessary to conduct high-quality finance research. These courses are academically rigorous and will be examined. Candidates take up to 18 months to complete the coursework (10 subjects plus a pre-PhD mathematics refresher course, if required). Upon successful completion of the coursework, PhD candidates will progress to the research component. The standard coursework structure for the PhD is as follows:

Pre-PhD summer course (if required):

• ECON8007 Mathematical Techniques for Advanced Economic Analysis

Year 1, Semester 1:

• ECON8011  Microeconomic Theory
• ECON8022  Macroeconomic Theory
• EMET8014  Advanced Econometrics I

Year 1, Semester 2:

• FINM8018  Doctoral Studies in Asset Pricing
• FINM8019  Doctoral Studies in Corporate Finance – Theory

Year 2, Semester 1:

• FINM8020  Doctoral Studies in Asset Pricing 2
• FINM8021  Doctoral Studies in Corporate Finance – Empirical

Three electives taken in the first year, consisting of:

• EMET8008  Advanced Econometrics II
• EMET8001  Applied Micro-Econometrics
• STAT8002  Applied Time Series Analysis or  EMET8010  Applied Macro and Financial Econometrics
• ECON8021  Topics in Microeconomic Theory
• ECON8001  Topics in Macroeconomics
• FINM7003  Continuous Time Finance
• ECON8013  Optimisation for Economics and Financial Economics
• ECON8014  Computational Methods in Economics
• ECON8038  Industrial Organisation
• ECON8053  Game Theory
• ECON8076  Topics in Game Theory
• ECON8080  Advanced Behavioral Economics

Other electives may be possible beyond those listed above. Note that not all courses are offered in all years.

In Semester 1 of the second year, PhD candidates are also required to attend Special Topics in Finance seminars. This is an advanced reading seminar series led by faculty and senior PhD candidates aimed at providing candidates with exposure to up-to-date research. This seminar series culminates in a draft proposal that will form the basis of the candidate’s thesis proposal review (see below).

PhD research component

Following the successful completion of coursework, PhD candidates undertake specialised research training and independent research. Research training begins in the second year with advanced-level seminars, where participants delve deeply into key current research papers. At the same time, PhD candidates will commence research in their chosen topic. The year culminates with the defence of the first research proposal or paper, known as the thesis proposal review (see below).

Research supervisory panel

When a PhD candidate is admitted to the program, a provisional supervisor is appointed. The provisional supervisor has the responsibility of overseeing the candidate’s progress until a supervisory panel is chosen.

The Special Topics in Finance seminar series held during Semester 1 of the second year of candidature will help facilitate the finalisation of PhD supervisory panels. The role of the supervisory panel is to assist, advise, and provide support and encouragement to the candidate for a timely and successful completion of the research thesis.

RSFAS finance seminar program

The RSFAS finance seminar program consists of regular seminars presented by national and international researchers. PhD candidates are expected to attend and actively participate in the seminars throughout their candidature.

Research integrity training

Within three to six months of enrolment, all PhD candidates must complete the  Research Integrity Training  and pass the exam. Completion of this course and exam is a compulsory milestone for all PhD candidates.

Thesis proposal review

The thesis proposal review is a major milestone towards the end of the second year. The purpose of the review is to assess the originality, significance, adequacy and achievability of the candidate’s thesis plan.

PhD candidates are required to submit a draft thesis proposal following completion of the Special Topics in Finance seminar series towards the end of Semester 1 in the second year of their candidature. The proposal includes a description of the research to be undertaken in the thesis, and a summary of the thesis structure and time plan. Candidates are required to give a presentation to the RSFAS faculty and submit a paper to their supervisory panel.

Successful completion of the thesis proposal review (as determined by the Delegated Authority following consultation with the HDR convenor and supervisory panel) is required to continue in the PhD program.

Annual progress reviews

It is University policy that each candidate’s progress be reviewed periodically. In each year of their program, PhD candidates are required to submit an  annual plan and report  as a basis for periodic progress review. This document provides details on work completed by the candidate since the previous review, current progress, and any problems that may impact their research. It also outlines the coursework and research the candidate intends to undertake in the following 12 months.

Oral presentation

In their final year, candidates are required to give a final  oral presentation  on their research, usually three months before submitting their thesis.

Read more about  research candidate milestones .

Thesis submission and examination

The culmination of the PhD in Finance is a written thesis which, upon completion, is submitted for examination. The thesis is assessed by examiners who are experts in the relevant field.

For more information on the process, visit our page on  submitting a thesis .

For information about scholarships available to HDR candidates, visit our page on  scholarships and fees .

Read details of some of our alumni’s recent  job placements .

See our list of current  Finance PhD students .

• Apply now Enquire now

Study at UniSA

• Study and career areas

How to apply

• Entry pathways

Scholarships

Student accommodation.

• Postgraduate study
• UniSA Online
• What can I study?
• Research projects
• Why UniSA for a PhD
• Executive Education and short courses
• New students
• Academic calendars
• Teaching and Learning
• Student placements and internship
• Student support
• Student exchange
• UniSA Sport
• Graduations
• Regional students
• Services for schools
• Aboriginal students
• Our research impact
• Research excellence
• Research fellowships
• Research institutes
• Research centres
• Centre for Cancer Biology
• Other research
• Research volunteers
• Images of research and teaching
• Industry sectors
• Enterprise Hub
• Innovation & Collaboration Centre
• UniSA Ventures

I want to...

• Collaborate on research
• Access business development opportunities
• Discover university IP
• Find a research expert
• Study a research degree
• Business development & growth
• Collaborative research
• Workforce planning
• Professional development & training
• Engage with UniSA
• Industry and partnerships
• Adelaide Planetarium
• Architecture Museum
• Kerry Packer Civic Gallery
• Samstag Museum of Art
• SASA Gallery
• Community Clinics
• Giving to UniSA
• The Hawke Centre
• Working at UniSA
• Media Centre
• Access business support opportunities
• Set up a collaborative research partnership
• Connect with UniSA students and graduates
• Support UniSA
• City West campus
• City East campus
• Magill campus
• Mawson Lakes campus
• Mount Gambier campus
• Whyalla campus
• Transport and parking
• Study information sessions
• Community clinics
• Museums and galleries
• Sport and fitness facilities
• Campus security
• Hire UniSA facilities
• Disability hub
• IT services for visitors
• Teaching and learning facilities

About UniSA

• Mission, vision and values
• Our history
• University achievements
• Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
• Honorary Doctorates
• Policies and procedures
• Publications
• Strategic action plan (Enterprise 25)
• Global engagement
• Regional engagement
• Aboriginal engagement
• University Council
• Provost and Chief Academic Officer
• Senior staff
• Research leadership
• Academic Units
• Vice Chancellor and President 
• Vacancies at UniSA
• SAGE Athena SWAN Pilot
• Contact information
• Login Staff Students Alumni

You're viewing degree information for International students

You're considered an International student if you are:

• NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
• NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

Doctor of Philosophy

Degree Level Research

Degree info for International students

Campus City West

Duration 4 year(s) full-time

Mode On-campus

Program Code DPBU

Fees AUD$ 39,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

International Admission by Country See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code 018568A

Program level Doctorate by research

Entry requirements

You must check the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for and make sure you are eligible.

• If you are an international applicant you also need to check that you meet the English language requirements.
• Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not automatically guarantee entry into a research degree.

Degree overview

• UniSA Business is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide 1 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2022.
• Gain a competitive edge in industry by completing a PhD in business, with access to a broad range of  research topics and projects  across areas across commerce, management, marketing and more.
• Join a community of scholars recognised for world-class research in marketing, tourism, business management, accounting and applied economics 2 .
• Develop the skills to independently design and execute original research, and create new knowledge with impact.
• Learn from experienced and highly qualified research supervisors, and renowned academics - experts who will support, mentor and guide you through your studies.
• Undertake exciting and innovative research across a range of business disciplines, with a focus on finding practical solutions and solving real-world problems.
• Have the chance to partner with industry, government, communities and education providers to influence decision-making and challenge current thinking.
• Benefit from strong links with global research institutions across Asia, North America, Europe and the UK.
• Have the chance to be mentored by a senior business leader through the Executive Partners Program .
• Study at a Top 5 business school in Australia for quality 3 .

1 UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 2 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).  3 Ranked #5, Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2023.

What is a research degree?

A research degree is an advanced program of study allowing you to investigate a topic relevant to your field. Under the supervision of world-class researchers, you will learn and apply advanced research methodologies to produce new knowledge and provide solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges. Completing a research degree means becoming an expert in your field. It’s your opportunity to take a topic that interests you, explore it in depth, tackle intellectual, creative and practical challenges, and communicate your findings.

Depending on your area of interest, you can study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Professional Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications) or Master of Research.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (up to four years full-time equivalent) provides you with advanced training and education, and the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality.

By the end of your program, you will be capable of independently designing and executing original research that generates new knowledge.

Professional Doctorate

A rigorous program of advanced study and research, designed specifically to meet the needs of industry, end-users and professional groups. Professional doctorates usually consist of a blend of coursework and research (three to four years full-time equivalent), encouraging close cooperation across university, industry and the profession, as well as providing a framework for integrated professional expertise and scholarly inquiry.

Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications)

Allows formal recognition of established researchers and/or scholars who do not already hold a PhD qualification, and who have produced research of international standing in their field with an ongoing record of academic publication (work).

Master of Research

A Master of Research (two years full-time equivalent) enables you to analyse your thesis topic at an advanced level, and apply research methodology and techniques to contribute new knowledge in your field, under appropriate supervision.

Please note, a master by coursework (such as an MBA) involves enrolling in selected courses and participating in lectures and tutorials (online or on campus). It is different to a master of research.

Find out more about our  research projects .

Why do a research degree?

UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. We are vibrant, outward-facing and responsive. We partner with industry, government and communities to seek answers to questions that arise in the real world. 

Learn more about our research .

The transformed PhD

UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed research that supports employer-relevant curriculum. To achieve this, and to produce entrepreneurial and business-aware graduates, we have developed the transformed PhD.

We have added a structured component to research degrees including enhanced skill development, supervisory panels and a technology-enabled oral defence of the thesis. Through these activities you will develop a set of professional, transferable skills relevant to our knowledge-based enterprise economy.

The aim of the transformed PhD is to increase your employment prospects in any career path. You will possess the knowledge, expertise and confidence to meet the emerging needs of academia, industry, government and the community.

Four good reasons to do a research degree

• Challenge yourself. You will need to work hard, be dedicated and think analytically at a high level. You will tackle completely new research and different research methods, or extend research already undertaken.
• Increase your career opportunities. A research degree provides evidence of independent thought and the ability to manage a research project in a given timeframe. Your research could allow you to develop a new specialisation, academic field or career. A research degree at UniSA will also allow you to develop a skillset which sets you apart, putting you at the centre of your professional development.
• Make your ideas public. Your research findings may be published, presented at conferences, provide a commercial return and have a positive impact on society.
• Contribute to society. Discover new methods, understandings and techniques, and solve a real-world problem.

What can I research?

A PhD in business at UniSA can be studied in the disciplines, Institutes and research strengths listed below.

We have expert supervisory teams available and our research team welcomes applications – please contact [email protected]  to find out more.

Accounting, applied economics, finance, choice, behavioural finance, capital markets, economic history, environmental accounting, international business, and property investment and valuation.

Ethics and corporate social responsibility, festival and event management, human resource management practices, organisational behaviour, leadership and change management, sport, recreation and leisure management, service quality, teams, team processes and communication, tourism and Asia, tourist behaviour and experiences, work-life balance and well-being, workplace diversity, and workplace performance.

Marketing/Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science

Advertising and media, brand performance, consumer behaviour, customer loyalty, international marketing, packaging, pricing, and wine marketing.

Research groups

Our research is also facilitated by a range of research groups, including:

• Centre for Workplace Excellence :  giving organisations the knowledge to empower them to achieve excellence in organisational productivity and employee wellbeing. 
• Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science :  the world’s largest centre for research into marketing with a team of more than 50 marketing scientists.
• Centre for Enterprise Dynamics in Global Economies: conducting research to inform and develop improved practices in dynamic contexts among enterprising individuals, organisations, industries and policy-makers.
• Centre for Markets, Values and Inclusion :  addressing the global challenge of sustainable, socially responsible and efficient resource management and development.  

Find a research topic

Our wide range of research topics and projects have been developed by teams of academics who will jointly supervise you. Each topic and project is a broad area of investigation, designed to help you create an original research question.  Browse our list of research topics and projects  or create your own project. Contact the relevant Principal Supervisor/s for further information before you make your application.

Find a research area

To find a research area, you'll need to match your qualifications and interests to the  research projects  offered at UniSA. These have been developed by teams of academics who will supervise you during your research degree.

Scholarships and projects

A scholarship allows you to focus on your research without needing to do paid work. At UniSA, you can explore high achiever scholarships, vacation research scholarships, as well as Vice Chancellor and President’s scholarships.

We also offer thematically-based scholarships. These scholarships will not only address local, national and international grand challenges, they will also ensure you work across the University, with industry, and with community partners.

Learn more about available scholarships .

Graduate outcomes

There are seven identified graduate qualities and outcomes that result from doing a research degree at UniSA. Importantly, these competencies are transferable to the workplace, whether academic or professional. In brief, a research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

• understands, can contribute to and critique current research-based knowledge in their field
• is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence
• is an effective problem solver and researcher
• can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher
• is committed to ethical action and social responsibility
• communicates research knowledge effectively
• demonstrates international perspectives in research

Read about our  research degree graduate qualities  in more detail.

Why Doctor of Philosophy

UniSA Business is ranked in the top 1% worldwide 1 , and is recognised and respected for a comprehensive research program inspired by the contemporary challenges facing Australia and its region. Our focus is always on finding practical solutions and creating new knowledge.

Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented. We are renowned for our concentration of global thought-leaders and academic experts in the areas of marketing, human resource management, applied economics, tourism and international business.

We offer a research environment with highly experienced and engaged supervisors, extensive connections to industry, government and communities, and a focus on addressing globally significant issues. We encourage you to connect with our researchers and find out the possibilities.

In the latest (2018) Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings, all of our assessed research was rated at or above world-class with particular strengths in business, management and marketing. Read more about our strengths in research .

Why should I study a PhD in business?

• You are passionate about problem solving, understanding how things can be done better or helping businesses thrive.
• The business sector has high demand for research graduates with expertise in areas such as management, consulting, business development, academia and entrepreneurship.
• You will be well placed to pursue a career in diverse multi-national companies, NGOs, universities, government departments, statutory bodies, national regulators, businesses, not-for-profit associations and more.
• Our training system, UniSA EDGE , will support you to achieve your career goals by providing research and professional skills development informed by employers, industry and supervisors.

1 UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022.

This could be you

As a research student at UniSA, you will create new knowledge and become an expert in your field by exploring a research question that interests you.

Global accreditations

UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level.

Career outcomes

Your career.

A PhD in business will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in industry, academia, or in research with a research institution or university.

A research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

• understands current research based knowledge in their field and its methodologies for creating new knowledge. They can create, critique, and appraise new and significant knowledge.
• is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence in research within and beyond a discipline or professional area.
• is an effective problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of research problems.
• can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher within a particular discipline or professional area and within wider but related areas.
• is committed to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.
• communicates effectively as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading member of the community.
• demonstrates international perspectives in research in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.

Before applying, you will need to do some investigation. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of preparing your application to maximise your chances of success.

Please check the  research degrees calendar for all key dates.

Eligibility

Check to see if you meet the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for.

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more .

More scholarships

Research Training Program international (RTPi) and University Presidents Scholarship

These scholarships will cover your tuition fees and your overseas health cover, and provide and a stipend (living allowance).

Learn more arrow-small-right

Research Themes PhD Scholarships

These scholarships address local, national and international grand challenges, and encourage collaboration with industry and community partners.

Australia’s University of Enterprise

Study at South Australia’s No. 1 university for graduate careers* and unlock your full potential.

*ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

What others are saying

Probably my favourite experience during my PhD program, was travelling to London and doing a six month internship with business and news broadcaster, CNBC. I was also given other opportunities to travel, to present at conferences and deliver seminar to the Institute’s corporate sponsors. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have grown and expanded my professional skill set whilst undertaking a research degree. I believe this has made me a well-rounded researcher and also a competitive candidate for marketing research positions in industry.

Dr. Cathy Nguyen

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Masters by Research

My research degree experience has been (and still is) a great research journey for me. I never thought of research as a possible career, but I was curious about how the consumer's mind works and how marketing fits into it all. Six years later, I’m still on this amazing discovery journey that has never ceased to amaze me. Thank you UniSA!

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Masters by Research Market Analyst | Foodland Corporate Office

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Find out more

For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/Research/Degrees/

You are eligible for a range of scholarships and grants as a current research student. For example, the prestigious Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarship, Maurice de Rohan International Travel Scholarships or one of UniSA’s International Travel Grants. See Scholarships and Prizes for more information.

Living in Adelaide

The world’s 5th most liveable city, Adelaide is welcoming and multicultural. It is an ideal home away from home.

International students

UniSA welcomes students from around the world. Discover what you can study, how to apply, and our support services.

Accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long- or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

Adelaide Business School

Drive creativity

Our research at the Adelaide Business School isn’t just world-standard. In many cases, it’s rated above it * .

*Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) 2018

Our major research strengths are in the following five fields:

Our accounting research focuses on collecting and analysing information to drive business performance, and scrutinising governance mechanisms and accountability structures within and outside organisations.

Entrepreneurship

Research here investigates the characteristics and behaviour of successful entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial teams, new-venture creation and performance, firm innovation and growth, and entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems.

Finance and Banking

We analyse mergers and acquisitions, corporate financing and investment policies, payout policies, banking, funds management and risk management.

Topics explored include the socioeconomic impact of various project management methods, systems, and the human aspects of cyber security.

Our marketing research includes work in the fields of engagement, value co-creation, business networks and wine business. 

Research impact

Developing an impact measurement system to better serve the community.

Adelaide Business School researcher, Dr Tracey Dodd, was engaged by Junction Australia to develop an impact measurement system and help improve service provision to the community.

Junction Australia is a not-for-profit organization that helps vulnerable Australians with housing and other community services. Junction provides support to people experiencing homelessness and those finding it difficult to enter affordable housing, as well as supporting children who are under the care of the State Government.

The Research One of the challenges that Junction faced was understanding and demonstrating the various positive impacts they have on their clients and the broader community. This included a limited capacity to measure and monitor service impact, with few organizational processes aimed at tracking service indicators and reporting requirements. To address these challenges, Dr Dodd worked alongside the organisation to better understand its services. The work involved mapping the information flow among employees and key stakeholders, assessing the services and support programs provided, and assisting in the development and measurement of key indicators for client and community impact.

“We worked alongside the organisation to implement a range of tools to help them collect data about the important work that they were doing.” Dr Tracey Dodd

The Impact Junction was transformed into an organization where all employees are actively involved in assessing the outcomes and impact of its services. The research was able to improve management’s understanding of their service impact, including the identification of weak spots, leading to a more holistic approach in how they deliver services to the community.

Not only has the implementation of an impact measurement system helped the organisation to improve its services, but it has also positively influenced its employees to have a better sense of belonging and achievement in the workplace.

Finally, implementing an impact measurement system helps demonstrate the positive returns on government funding and justifies future investment so that the organisation can continue helping those who are in need or at risk.

Watch video

Our research centre and initiatives

• Entrepreneurship, Commercialisation and Innovation Centre ( ECIC)
• Family Business Education And Research Group (FBERG)
• Human Aspects of Cyber Security (HACS)
• International Centre for Financial Services (ICFS)
• South-East Asia Pacific chapter, American Society for Engineering Management (SEAP chapter, ASEM)
• Yunus Centre for Social Enterprise

Interested in postgraduate research with us?

We offer research opportunities at the master’s and PhD levels. Our higher-degree-by-research (HDR) programs are benchmarked with other Go8 universities, and all HDR students are supervised by experts in the field to ensure high-quality, internationally competitive research outcomes. If you’re interested in accounting, finance and banking, management, marketing and/or entrepreneurship, then consider furthering your research career with us.

Higher degrees by research

Degree Finder

Accounting and Finance

Learn to manage the generation and production use of money at all scales - from the individual right up to multinationals and governments.

Experience real financial trading

As a University of Adelaide accounting and finance student, you'll learn to use the same systems that practising finance professionals use, in our state-of-the-art Financial Markets Lab. Utilising the Lab's real-time connections to all major global finance markets, you will:

• construct investment portfolios
• stress-test their performance in specific market conditions
• observe live market performance
• monitor real-time financial news feeds, via the powerful LSEG database.

You'll graduate with the experience and confidence to immediately contribute in a professional finance environment.

Build the mindset to chart your own path

As the only Australian university with ACEEU accreditation ^ , we will ensure virtually everything you do in your business studies builds your capacity to innovate and make things happen.

• All our business degrees include an entrepreneurship course, to boost your personal development and professional growth.
• All business degrees give you the flexibility to pursue areas of particular interest or passion.
• You'll also have the opportunity to hone your new-venture-building skills in our eChallenge program, and ThincLab business incubators.
• And you'll get the chance to gain priceless real-world experience through industry internships.

Career prospects

• Finance programs provide excellent grounding for pursuing a Chartered Financial Analyst program.
• Graduates of accounting programs can gain associate membership with CPA Australia and CA ANZ.

See our degrees

• Gain industry skills in our state-of-the-art Financial Markets Lab^
• In top 5% of business schools in the world**
• Ranked top-150 globally in Accounting and Finance*

* QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023. ** Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB). ^ Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU). † Australian Government, Labour Market Insights, 2023.

Register for Open Day 2024

Find out more about studying at the University of Adelaide at this year's Open Day, Sunday 11 August. Register for your chance to win a $1,000 gift card!

46 matching degrees found

• Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Commerce - Melbourne Campus
• Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Project Management
• Diploma in Business

Double Degree

• Bachelor of Economics with Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Chemical) with Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Civil) with Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Electrical and Electronic) with Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Mechanical) with Bachelor of Finance and Banking
• Bachelor of Finance and Banking with Bachelor of Mathematical and Computer Sciences

Honours Bachelor

• Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)
• Bachelor of Finance (Honours)

Masters by Coursework

• Master of Accounting - Melbourne Campus
• Master of Accounting
• Master of Accounting and Finance
• Master of Accounting and Finance - Melbourne Campus
• Master of Applied Finance
• Master of Applied Finance - Melbourne Campus
• Master of Business Administration - Online
• Master of Business Administration (Health Management) - Online
• Master of Business Law
• Master of Finance
• Master of Finance - Melbourne Campus
• Master of Finance and Business Economics
• Master of International Management
• Master of Marketing
• Master of Professional Accounting - Melbourne Campus
• Master of Professional Accounting
• Master of Wine Business

Graduate Diploma

• Graduate Diploma in Business Administration - Online
• Graduate Diploma in Business Analytics
• Graduate Diploma in Business Law
• Graduate Diploma in Law New

Graduate Diploma-Professional

• Graduate Diploma in Wine Business

Graduate Certificate

• Graduate Certificate in Business Administration - Online
• Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics
• Graduate Certificate in Business Law
• Graduate Certificate in Law New
• Graduate Certificate in Wine Business

Professional Certificate

• Professional Certificate in Advisory Services
• Professional Certificate in Business Studies
• Professional Certificate in Defence Industry Leadership

Masters by Research

• Master of Philosophy

Doctorate by Research

• Doctor of Philosophy

I enjoyed the entire University experience, not just academically but the student societies I was involved in and the people around me.

Zaw Yananar Htoo

LLB, B Arts, GDLP

Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)

Study at Adelaide

Further enquiries

Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics

Higher Degrees by Research

A Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, Higher Degree by Research is highly regarded and internationally recognised.

Further your studies with a Higher Degree by Research while developing expertise and skills in a chosen field. From business, economics, law, humanities, social sciences, education and music, the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics has a reputation for outstanding research in a wide range of fields.

Through my studies I have developed a passion for discovery, and also for sharing discoveries through teaching. My experiences at university have shaped who I am and by extension shaped my future.

Benjamin Probert

Download our program guide.

Search scholarships

Your next steps

Deciding on a program of study

Follow your career aspirations and passion and choose a program of study important to you. 

Research student handbook

Identifying an area of research

Our research covers an array of areas. Find what interests you most.

Explore our research

How to apply

You can apply for admission at any time throughout the year.

How to apply for a HDR

HDR general information session

Find out more about HDR study in the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics.

HDR scholarship and application information session

Listen to our information session to learn more about applying for HDR and scholarships.

Find your answers anytime via our knowledge base, chat to us online or send us a message.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Banking & Finance

How to apply

PhD students in our school normally commence their study in Term 1 around early February each year. Prospective candidates are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) between  May 1st and  July  31st  to be considered for admission in the following year. Please send your EOIs via email to  Banking and Finance HDR Admissions . Only selected applicants will be invited to apply via the UNSW central portal.

Out of round EOIs submitted after the deadline could be considered only for interested candidates with strong prior research experience, e.g., with a masters by research degree from a leading global institution.

Important:  Make sure you satisfy the UNSW academic and language entry requirements before submitting your EOI. Please read the “Entry Requirements” section below. 

Academic Entry Requirement

The minimum academic entry requirement for Stream 1 is the equivalent of a four-year UNSW Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (Economics, Finance, and related subjects) with first or upper second class honours. The minimum academic entry requirement for Stream 2 is the equivalent of a four-year UNSW Bachelor’s degree with an Honours year (research), or the equivalent of a UNSW Masters’ degree with substantial research component with first or upper second class honours.

Note: an  upper second class honours  is equivalent to a weighted average mark of at least 75/100 (i.e., a Distinction) at UNSW and is allocated to roughly the top 30% of students. Grading systems vary across countries. For more information, read this  guide for grade equivalencies between countries .

English Language Requirement

UNSW recognises the follow countries as English-speaking: American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Canada, Fiji, Gibraltar, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, The Gambia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

If you are not a citizen of an English-speaking country, then you will need to establish that you have sufficient English language fluency. There are four ways to establish sufficient English language fluency: English Tests (including IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson and Cambridge), UNSW Global English Course, Prior Study, or an English Waiver. For details on each of these, please review our  English language requirements .

About the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Banking & Finance

UNSW’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Banking & Finance will prepare you to become a globally focused and socially engaged research leader. You’ll be joining a cohort of high-achieving research students in tackling modern-day challenges at the forefront of Banking & Finance, working alongside leaders in the field (ranked 20 th in the world, QS Subject Rankings , 2022). This is your opportunity to become integrated into the UNSW Business School’s community of scholars.

You’ll first undertake rigorous coursework covering relevant theories and research methods. As part of the program, you’ll also be involved in research projects from an early stage. This training will equip you with the skills required to identify, analyse, and solve problems in the field.

You’ll then pursue independent research under the supervision of high-profile UNSW academics, culminating in a doctoral thesis. Your PhD thesis will showcase your research skills and enable you to make an original contribution to the field of Banking & Finance.

There will also be exciting opportunities throughout to interact with industry leaders, and to develop your teaching portfolio. The training is geared toward preparing you for a career in academia, although other career paths (e.g., consulting, government, industry, non-profit) are also enabled.

PhD program structure

Most students complete the overall PhD study (including the MPDBS year as illustrated below) in four to five years. For candidates with a strong prior research experience, e.g., with a masters by research degree from a leading global institution, it is possible to complete the study in three to four years without the MPDBS year. Admitted students will be notified in the admission offer about the need of completing the MPDBS study. 

Year One: Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS)

The first year of study is designed to provide a rigorous foundation to conduct independent research. You’ll learn a range of methodologies and build your communication and presentation skills.

Your first year of coursework study will cover fundamental research methods. You’ll also start developing key research skills such as identifying, framing, presenting, and writing academic contributions. You’ll work as a research assistant on faculty research projects and start working on your own research as your skills develop.

The first year will help you identify your potential thesis supervisor for the PhD component of the program. Upon successful completion of the first year, you’ll be awarded a Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies. A brief overview of the first year is presented below.

• Program Core Course: Foundations of Business Research; Econometric Analysis; Business Research Project Seminar
• Stream Core Courses: Microeconomic Theory I; Mathematical Economics; Asset Pricing Theory; Research Methods in Finance 2; Empirical Corporate Governance
• Research Assistance Work

Year Two: Specialised Coursework & Thesis Work

During the second year, you’ll continue in the Banking & Finance stream with a further year of advanced coursework.

Examples of courses you may take include:

• Empirical Corporate Finance
• Corporate Finance Theory
• Empirical Asset Pricing

Your second year is also when you’ll identify your thesis topic with your supervisor. You’ll engage in literature review, research design and present your research proposal to the School at the end of the year.

Years Three Onwards: Thesis Work

The final two or three years of the program are focused on conducting full-time research and completing your doctoral thesis. This is your opportunity to address some of the biggest challenges in Banking & Finance and make a significant contribution to knowledge in the field. Your research will offer new critical thinking and withstand critical analysis from expert researchers in the area.

For more details about the School of Banking & Finance and our PhD program, check out our home page, people page and research students page.

As with most other OECD countries, the number of PhD completions in Australia has grown dramatically – more than doubling in the last two decades.

An increasing number of PhD graduates find employment in business, government, and the non-profit sector. Nineteen of the largest ASX companies have PhD graduates on their senior executive teams.

Your PhD will set you on the path to a career in a premier research institution, anywhere in the world. Throughout your research degree, you’ll also have many opportunities to develop your teaching portfolio.

Beyond academia, there’s also significant demand in the private and public sectors for people with deep knowledge and sound research and analytical skills*.

Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in academia, or take your research skills out to industry, a PhD in Banking & Finance from UNSW will get you there.

* Source:  2019 Advancing Australia’s Knowledge Economy Report

Degree type

Postgraduate Research

4 years full-time, 5-8 years part-time

Commencing terms

Term 1 – February

Program code

Delivery mode, domestic / international.

International

Useful links

Student research

Scholarships

Student life

Find a research supervisor

Accreditation

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Academic Year 2022

These Program Rules should be read in conjunction with the University’s policies ( http://www.adelaide.edu.au/policies ) and the Research Student Handbook ( http://www.adelaide.edu.au/graduatecentre/current-students/handbook/ ). The Research Student Handbook explains the procedures to be followed by students and contains guidelines on research and supervision for research degrees offered by the University. All students must comply with both the Academic Program Rules and the procedures detailed in the Research Student Handbook.

Published on: 12 March, 2024 | 14:52:50

DISCLAIMER: The information in this publication is current as at the date of printing and is subject to change. You can find updated information on our website at adelaide.edu.au With the aim of continual improvement the University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the degrees, diplomas, certificates and courses on offer. As a result the specific programs and courses available will change from time to time. Please refer to adelaide.edu.au for the most up to date information or contact us on 1800 061 459. The University of Adelaide assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information provided by third parties.

Australian University Provider Number PRV12105

CRICOS 00123M © The University of Adelaide.

Content generated from http://calendar.adelaide.edu.au

• Adelaide Research & Scholarship

• Research Theses

Items in DSpace are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.

Personalise your experience

Graduate Research

Doctoral Program in Finance

• Arrow-right #8 Globally for graduate employability

Course overview

What is it about.

The Melbourne Business School Doctoral Program in Finance has the largest and most well-developed set of doctoral subjects on offer in Australia. Taught by the Department of Finance , which is internationally recognised for its world-class research and research training and augmented by visitors from the world's top finance programs.

The Doctoral Program in Finance is made up of a 2-year Master of Commerce coursework program followed by a 3-year PhD.

Generous scholarships are available for high achieving applicants, including full fee waivers and a stipend of AUD 37,000 per year (2024 RTP rate).

Research conference travel funding of AUD$15,000 is available to all confirmed PhD candidates.

Graduate Research candidates are provided with funding and encouraged to submit papers to prominent local and international finance journals and conferences. Students are also encouraged to apply for tutoring positions within the Department throughout their candidature.

Register to attend an information session

The Department of Finance also offers a Doctoral Program in Decision, Risk and Financial Sciences .

Related study areas

• Business and economics