Postgraduate Studies in Mathematics at the University of Queensland

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I want to study Mathematics or Statistics at your department. How do I apply?
• The first thing you need to do is talk to or email a possible supervisor (now called advisor). Discuss with him/her your interests, tell a bit about yourself, and find out if he/she would be willing to supervise you.
• After you have had contact with a potential supervisor, fill in the application form at the Graduate School website: http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/index.html?id=9221 and send it back to the address on the form.
• For a PhD or MPhil you will need to submit a research proposal. This is typically written in consultation with your potential supervisor.
2. What happens to my application after I have applied?
• Your application will be processed by the UQ Graduate School, which will send the application to the Postgraduate Coordinator of Mathematics. He/she will recommend acceptance/rejection of your application based on (1) your academic record, (2) your research proposal (only for PhD and MPhil), and (3) your English proficiency. The recommendation is sent to the School of Physical Science Postgraduate Coordinator who makes the final decision, based on the PGM recommendation.
• See http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/index.html?page=9356 for more information for international applicants.
• When you application is accepted you will receive a formal offer to start your postgraduate studies at UQ.
3. What types of postgraduate degrees are on offer?
• PhD: 3-4 years (research). To be eligible you will need to have completed an Honours or Masters degree or equivalent.
• MPhil: 1 ½ - 2 years (research). To be eligible you will need to have completed an Honours degree or the equivalent.
• Graduate Certificate (1 semester, coursework).
• Graduate Diploma (2 semesters, coursework).
• MSc (3 semesters, coursework).
• An MSc degree can be done in gradual steps, e.g. first a Graduate Certificate, followed by a Graduate Diploma, and finally leading to a Master of Science.
• The PhD and MPhil programs are so-called Research Higher Degree programs, which involve research only (no coursework).
4. How do I find a suitable supervisor or find out more about the research projects in the department?
• The Department of Mathematics has a diverse range of research projects. For more information see http://www.maths.uq.edu.au/postgraduate/ or the Mathematics staff list.
5. How much does a PG degree cost?
• Domestic candidates do not pay tuition fees during their research higher degree studies.
  International candidates are required by the Australian Government to pay tuition fees for all programs, including research higher degree programs.
• In addition to tuition fees and airfares, a single student will need about AUD$15,000-$18,000 per year to live comfortably in Brisbane. Brisbane rates well on cost of living indexes.
• For further information about fees for international students please contact the International Education Directorate by email study@uq.edu.au or telephone +61 7 3365 7941.
6. What scholarships are available?
• The various scholarships are discussed in detail at the Graduate School site http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/index.html?page=9368
• You may also wish to contact potential supervisors who may have personal scholarships available, e.g. from the Australian Research Council.
7. Where do I find more information about graduate studies at your department?
• Most information is kept at the graduate School site http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/
• See the Mathematics website http://www.maths.uq.edu.au/ for information about staff and courses.
• See also the School of Physical Sciences (of which Mathematics is a part) website: http://www.sps.uq.edu.au/ for additional information on Postgraduate Studies in Mathematics.