The University is reviewing the PhD Statute — splitting it into clearer policy, procedures, and guidelines — and wants doctoral candidates, supervisors, and the research community to weigh in before submissions close Friday, 31 July.
The University of Auckland is inviting doctoral candidates, supervisors, and the wider research community to contribute to a review of the University's PhD regulations as part of the Graduate Research Support Model Review.
An external policy specialist has been engaged to review the current PhD Statute, with the aim of creating a clearer and more accessible framework by separating the existing statute into distinct policy, procedures, and guidelines. This work is intended to make doctoral regulations easier to navigate while ensuring they continue to support high-quality research and an excellent doctoral experience.
The current PhD Statute governs all aspects of doctoral study, including admission, candidature, supervision, examination, thesis requirements, and the responsibilities of candidates and the University. As the University's central governing document for PhD study, it plays a key role in shaping the doctoral journey.
As part of the review, the University is encouraging the graduate research community to think broadly about what a PhD should look like in the 21st century. Participants are invited to reflect on whether existing rules are fit for purpose, no longer meet the needs of today's researchers, or could be improved to better support doctoral candidates.
If you have suggestions or ideas, you are encouraged to share your feedback with Professor JR Rowland, Pro Vice-Chancellor Global and Graduate Research, by completing the online feedback form before Friday, 31 July. Before contributing, you may wish to review the current PhD Statute and its associated policies, procedures, and guidelines to inform your feedback