Joint PhD Programs

All proposals should be discussed with the Graduate Research School. 
Approval of a joint PhD program is subject to presentation of strong evidence that will serve to form a viable and desirable link with the partner institution. Schools should seek advice from the Graduate Research School as to the viability of the proposal prior to approaching another institution. If, after such informal discussion there is agreement that the proposed link is one UWA should pursue, a formal application may be lodged.

As part of the formal application process schools are required to supply the following documents to the Graduate Research School:

International partner institutions:

Please also forward a copy of MOU and student exchange agreement, if applicable.

Australian partner institutions:

Please also forward a copy of the MoU between the institutions (only applicable to institutions outside the Group of Eight)

The documents form the basis of the structure, administration and regulation of the joint PhD program. If the program is approved, these documents will be those to which the Graduate Research School will refer in the case of any dispute or difficulty with the program. It is therefore important that they are as full and accurate as possible. Once a joint PhD agreement has been drawn up, a meeting with all the relevant stakeholders will be arranged if required. The purpose of this meeting will be to ensure that the joint PhD agreement includes all information necessary to effectively administer the proposed PhD program and accurately describes the proposed program and any associated conditions.

Once all parties have agreed on the content of the document it will be considered by the Board of the Graduate Research School. It is recommended that if similar processes must be followed at the partner institution that they be undertaken at the same time.