PhD study at the centre

A Guide for potential applicants

• The process
• Scholarships

The Strategic and Defence Studies Centre (SDSC) encourages applications for PhD study from graduates with excellent academic records and a demonstrated capacity for conducting outstanding research. The main initial point of contact is:

The process

Candidates interested in undertaking PhD study with the SDSC should:

1. Review the general information on PhD study at the ANU, at:
   http://www.anu.edu.au/graduate/prospective/research.php

   [You will also find an application form at this address: the Postgraduate Research Course/and or Scholarship Application. Please ensure you are aware of the application requirements. You can apply for admission & scholarship or admission only].

2. Review the SDSC website to check the research interests of Centre staff

   [In preparing your topic proposal, ensure that your proposed area of research fits in with the overall interests of the SDSC. The Centre has a strong research emphasis on contemporary, policy-relevant issues in the following areas: Australia’s defence and security policy; Asia-Pacific regional security including developments in East Asia and the Pacific and the regional implications of global strategic trends including arms proliferation, the revolution in military affairs, and transnational security challenges. If in doubt about whether your topic fits in with the research interests of the SDSC and its staff, please check with Dr Huisken].

3. Advise Dr Huisken of your interest in PhD studies at the SDSC. It is a good idea to indicate at an early stage:

   • your proposed topic (be as specific as you can)
   • your academic achievements and work experience
   • whether your study is dependent on receiving a scholarship
   • your timeframe for applying and for beginning your studies

4. In conjunction with the above preparations, submit a completed Postgraduate Research Course/and or Scholarship application [Download from ANU graduate school website] to the university. If you are applying for admission only you can submit your application at any time. If you are applying for admission and scholarship, please see the note below.

Masters Program

The SDSC offers prestigious masters degrees and graduate diplomas through its Graduate Studies in Strategy and Defence (GSSD) Program

Scholarships

Information on scholarships is available at http://www.anu.edu.au/graduate/pubs/prospectus/scholarships.php The competition for scholarships at the Australian National University is exceptionally intense. Candidates normally require first class honours (or its equivalent) to stand a reasonable chance in the round. Your referees’ reports and a well argued PhD proposal in an area of interest for the SDSC are also very important.