Research
Research degrees are open to graduates of at least four years of full-time tertiary study, including at least one year of study in theology or an associated disciplines. Upon being admitted to one of these degrees the research candidate becomes a member of the University of Divinity’s School of Graduate Research (SGR). Research students have full borrowing rights at most of the libraries of the University of Divinity, and are supported by a regular program of research activities, where they have the opportunity to meet with other research students, and to discuss the progress of their own work.
Courses
The University of Divinity offers the following higher degrees by research.
2025 Research Graduates
Title Conscientious Objection in Medical Practice: A Content Analysis of the Victorian Parliamentary Discussion Establishing the Abortion Law Reform Act 2008
Abstract This thesis explores Victoria’s abortion legislation as it relates to health practitioners exercising conscientious objection to induced abortion. Through a content analysis of the pertinent parliamentary debate, this research identified the dominant ethical opinions underpinning this legislation thus expounding why this law treats conscientious objection the way it does..
Information for Research Students
Please logon to ARK to access the following:
- CTC Resources on ARK
- HDR Resources on ARK
Study Carrels
A number of lockable study carrels are available in the Mannix Library for use by research students. Allocations are made at the beginning of each year. Applications should be made to the Deputy Master by the end of November.
Researcher Support
Supervision
Each HDR candidate works with at least two supervisors, a primary supervisor and an associate supervisor. The role of the supervisor is to support, guide, and encourage you in your work, as well as give you feedback on your writing. As you develop as a researcher, the relationship between the HDR candidate and the supervisor undergoes subtle changes as you become the expert in your field of research.
Training Opportunities
The SGR offers several different training opportunities, and we are continuing to develop this program. The aim of training is to equip you with the skills you need to compete your dissertation, but also to prepare you for life after completion. Areas covered include general orientation to the research environment, opportunities to participate in research methodologies units, training for the first major milestone—the confirmation panel, academic writing skills development, workshops on presenting and publishing your research and planning your career.
Research Seminars and Conferences
CTC and the University of Divinity run regular research seminars and conferences. Engaging with other researchers and scholars, listening to their work, and presenting your own, helps to develop critical thinking and engagement, and broadens your knowledge of a breadth of disciplines and research. It is another way of building community.
See key research dates.