Higher Degree Research
Research That Makes a Difference
Higher Degree Research in the Faculty of Social Sciences, Arts, Business, Education and Law brings together researchers working across diverse disciplines, methods and forms of inquiry.
As a SABEL HDR candidate, you are part of both a strong disciplinary community within your School and a wider Faculty research community. This gives you opportunities to develop your research within your own field while connecting with researchers working on different questions and areas of expertise across SABEL.
Our HDR candidates undertake ambitious research that advances knowledge, engages with contemporary challenges, and contributes to communities, professions, policy, industry and culture. Throughout your candidature, you will have opportunities to share your research, learn from others, build networks, and participate actively in the intellectual life of the Faculty.
Whether you are considering research study at Western Sydney University or are already part of our HDR community, this site connects you with the information, people, opportunities, and support available across SABEL.
Explore our HDR degrees
Explore the research degrees available in SABEL, including our Doctoral degrees (Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Creative Arts, Doctor of Education), Master of Philosophy, and Master of Research, and learn more about the kind of research each degree supports.
Navigate your HDR journey
Find practical guidance for each stage of candidature - from getting started and developing your project through Confirmation of Candidature, progress and milestones, submission, examination and completion.
Explore supervision and support
Learn about supervision in SABEL, what candidates and supervisors can expect from one another, and the Faculty and School HDR teams available to support you throughout candidature.
Connect with our research community
HDR study extends beyond the thesis. Connect with the wider SABEL research community through the SABEL HDR Conference, Three-Minute Thesis, seminars, workshops, writing activities and other research development opportunities.
Explore funding and opportunities
Explore support available to SABEL HDR candidates, including Candidature Support Funds, Doctoral Completion Grants, doctoral internships, writing retreats, Thesis Bootcamps and other Faculty and School opportunities.
Explore resources and guides
Access practical guides, templates, forms, policies, and other resources to help you navigate your HDR candidature and find the information you need.