309510 v.1 Doctor of Philosophy (Counselling Psychology)

Introduction

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate should uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas. The thesis research will be a program which is practically oriented and useful in developing an effective understanding, providing for the application of solutions to real world problems. Subject to and in accordance with Curtin's Higher Degree by Research Regulations for Doctoral Degrees, a Doctorof Philosophy (PhD) degree shall be awarded for a thesis as defined in regulations or a combination of a thesis and coursework in which the coursework component does not exceed one third of the total doctoral degree program. In all cases the thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field of study and demonstrate the capacity of the candidate to conceive, design and carry to completion independent research.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

These are outlined at http://research.curtin.edu.au/graduate/entryrequirements.html

Duration and Availability

A candidate may enrol in a Doctor of Philosophy either full-time or part-time. Enrolment shall be continuous with the exception of periods of leave of absence as approved by the Divisional Graduate Studies Committee. The course duration is four years equivalent full-time study. The time limit shall be adjusted for approved periods of leave of absence. Registered full-time duration for international onshore students on student visas is four years.

Course Organisation

The program consists of three main components - course work, practicum placements, and a research thesis. The coursework component provides training in counselling and psychotherapy. The practicum component comprises three professional placements (a total of 1020 hours). The research component is the most substantial part of the course, and represents almost three quarters of the total course of study.

Professional Recognition

This course satisfies the professional accreditation requirements of the Australian Psychological Society.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. Costs of thesis preparation and binding are normally paid by the doctoral student.

Special Note

Curtin's Higher Degree by Research Regulations for Doctoral Degrees will apply in respect of enrolment, candidacy, the thesis committee and the examination process. For further information please refer to the General Information section of the front of this handbook. A candidate shall comply with these regulations as from time to time amended or remade except that, where the University Graduate Studies Committee is of the opinion that any candidate has been or may be adversely affected by a change in the regulations since initial enrolment, the candidate may be permitted to continue under such regulation or regulations in force at any time during the period of candidature and on conditions the Committee may prescribe.

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.

^Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.

#Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.