Doctoral degrees at the University of Melbourne seek to develop students' academic leadership, increasing independence, creativity and innovation in their research.

Doctor of Philosophy - MDHS
The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences) at the University of Melbourne marks a student’s admission to the community of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences scholars. It signifies that the holder has undertaken a substantial piece of original research which has been conducted and reported by the holder via thesis.
Doctor of Medical Science
The Doctor of Medical Science (DMedSc) at the University of Melbourne seeks to develop graduates who demonstrate academic leadership, increasing independence, creativity and innovation in their research work. In addition, professional doctoral studies provide advanced training designed to enhance professional knowledge in a specialist area, and encourage the acquisition of a wide range of advanced and transferable skills.

MD-PhD
Combining a PhD with your MD may be an excellent option if you are already on your way to a career as a clinician-researcher. Discover the Melbourne MD-PhD pathway.
Thematic PhD Programs
By enrolling in a PhD in the Medical School you may be eligible to participate in one of the following thematic PhD Programs to further provide candidates with additional development and support.
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Child and Adolescent Health PhD Program
The Child and Adolescent Health PhD Program complements your PhD studies. As a participant, you will join more than 200 graduate researchers at the Melbourne Children’s Campus.
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Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program
The Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program provides specialist cancer research training and support for PhD candidates. It complements your core PhD activities.
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Infection and Immunity PhD Program
This PhD Program is a supplementary learning opportunity that will enrich your PhD experience. As a participant, you will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge about infection and immunity.
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Medical Biology PhD Program
When you join our PhD Program, you will work with others who share a passion for research related to medical biology. You’ll connect with graduate researchers from other disciplines. And you’ll engage with relevant external organisations.
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Melbourne Neuroscience PhD Program
This is a competitive program that complements your core PhD project. You will receive close mentoring from experts in the field of neuroscience. And you will benefit from a broad range of research initiatives.
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Mental Health PhD Program
This Program brings together graduate researchers addressing mental health from diverse disciplinary perspectives - psychiatry, psychology, epidemiology and community mental health, history and philosophy of psychiatry, general practice, paediatrics, psychiatric nursing, social work, among others.