Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Sciences

Undertake a PhD in Social Sciences at Flinders

Understand social forces and power structures, globalisation and sustainability issues.

Pursue an advanced research project in social sciences and expand our understanding of the social, cultural and political forces that shape and steer the world today.

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Master of Arts (Social Sciences)

Duration: 2 years

Delivery mode:
In Person

Location:
Bedford Park

CRICOS code: 022482F

Annual fees:
2025: $38,100

Further information on fees listed

Doctor of Philosophy (Social Sciences)

Duration: 4 years

Delivery mode:
In Person

Location:
Bedford Park

CRICOS code: 006809K

Annual fees:
2025: $38,100

Further information on fees listed

Research supervisors

How to apply

Enquire

Why undertake a PhD in Social Sciences at Flinders

Gain expertise in a specialised area of social sciences and become an international expert in your topic
Make a difference to the world. Your research has the potential to improve people’s lives by understanding the social forces and power structures, globalisation, and sustainability issues at play in the world today
Explore a fascinating research question that no one has answered before. You will have the opportunity to fill a gap in current knowledge or answer a previously unresolved issue in your field

Discover more about research at the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.

Your career

A PhD in Social Sciences at Flinders provides a wide range of skills valued in all types of organisations and careers. It will enhance your analytical and communication skills, provide you with skills to quickly learn new concepts and adapt to change, and enhance your time management, organisation and resilience skills.

A PhD is a stepping stone to a career as a professional researcher in the public sector, think tanks, charities, universities, and private corporations. Individuals with PhDs in social sciences are highly sought after for various professions in public and private organisations and have found roles in writing, the law, public service, consulting, advising, teaching and publishing.

Potential occupations include:

Academic
Writer
Consultant or adviser
Professional researcher

Potential employers include:

Universities
Think tanks
Public sector
Charities
Private corporations

Potential research supervisors

Flinders Social Sciences academic staff are recognised as leaders in their fields both in Australia and globally. Our academic supervisors draw on their extensive knowledge and exciting research covering topics related to inequality, and sustainability.

Dr Laura Roberts

Women’s and Gender Studies

Dr Monique Mulholland

Sociology, gender and sexuality

Learn what to prepare before approaching a potential research supervisor.

Ready to find the perfect supervisor for your research journey?

Explore Research @ Flinders.

Sociology

Women's and Gender Studies

Get inspired

From a BA to a PhD to the world

Some stories are so inspirational, you just need to tell them. Dr Ryan Manhire went from school drop-out to a postdoc at one of Europe’s leading ethical centres. Find out how he forged his path with the help of a Bachelor of Arts and Cotutelle Doctoral degree in Philosophy.

Learn more

Breaking the bias around sex education

Dr Monique Mulholland has always been interested in norms and how people’s views are shaped around sexuality, gender, race and identity – now she is giving young people a voice to shape the curriculum.

Learn more

How to apply

Review the course rule

Check your eligibility

Find a research supervisor

Find out about scholarships and fees

Prepare your application

Apply now

Enquire now

Review answers to regularly asked questions about applying for a higher degree by research (FAQs).

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