A research degree, sometimes described as a higher degree, is awarded by the University of Waikato for research which requires a high degree of scholarly acumen, independence and perseverance. The research is supervised by members of academic staff, but must be the candidate’s original work. This must be presented as a written thesis that demonstrates the research process and the argument or results.

Doctoral work requires the candidate to make an original contribution to the field by empirical investigation, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. The process begins with learning how to define a research topic, and planning a programme of research to investigate it. As they pursue their degree, candidates develop their abilities in the use of appropriate methodologies of investigation, in the collection and analysis of information and data, and in the presentation of their results.

The University of Waikato offers three types of research degrees: higher doctorates (LLD, DLit, DSc), the supervised doctorate (PhD), supervised professional doctorates (EdD, SJD), and the Master of Philosophy (MPhil).

The higher doctorates are awarded for a body of meritorious published work undertaken without academic supervision. Candidates will not be considered for a higher doctorate until at least 10 years after graduation from their first degree.

The supervised research degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), are acquired solely by the submission of a thesis prepared under supervision at the University of Waikato.

The supervised professional research degrees of Doctor of Education (EdD) and Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) are designed for candidates with relevant professional experience. Typically candidates are senior practitioners in their professional fields who wish to make a significant contribution to their area of expertise via research. These degrees require an initial year of course work to be successfully completed prior to the development and submission of a supervised thesis.

The following are classed as Higher doctorates:

• Doctor of Laws – LLD;
• Doctor of Literature – DLit; and
• Doctor of Science – DSc.

Higher doctorates of the University are the most advanced degrees offered by the University. They are awarded on the basis of highly original and meritorious published work, usually carried out over a number of years. These degrees are awarded for work which is not carried out under academic supervision.

Further information about the requirements for these degrees is available on request from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor or the PGSO. 

The University of Waikato values its associations with industry, commerce and Crown Research Institutes, Centres of Research Excellence, and other Universities, both in New Zealand and overseas. Such associations provide stimulating and intellectually challenging opportunities and experiences for its research staff and students.

The University of Waikato is responsible for the academic programme and supervision of those enrolled in higher degrees, therefore must be closely involved with collaborating institutions to ensure candidates are making progress. Candidates will only be permitted to undertake research off-campus once the following criteria have been fulfilled:

• Data collection and examination of key material can only, or can best, be carried out off-campus;
• The resources of the collaborating institution are appropriate for and available to the candidate;
• The staff at the collaborating institution are able and qualified and will provide support for the candidate;
• The collaborating institution is able to provide a stimulating research environment and;
• The collaborating institution will provide University of Waikato supervisors with ready access to the candidate and the facilities used by the candidate;

At times candidates may be absent from the University of Waikato campus (therefore without supervision) for extended periods of time due to the requirement to study in libraries or museums or conduct field work. Candidates are encouraged to consider the possible disadvantages commonly associated with working off-campus in an unsupervised capacity. It is recommended that the supervisors assess the candidates’ ability to:

• Work independently;
• Maintain regular contact and;
• Access essential resources.

It is expected that the following matters would be discussed:

• Method and frequency for maintaining contact between candidate and supervisor(s);
• Objectives to be achieved in the exercise and reporting on those objectives;
• Resources required;
• People who could provide informal assistance to the candidate;
• Contacts, authorisation or letters of introduction that may be required;
• Whether the candidate has had adequate training in the methodology and/or equipment to be used and;
• Potential health and safety hazards and whether the candidate has been adequately briefed/trained where necessary, and has adequate equipment to minimise the identified risks.

It is advised that the candidate spend significant periods of time at the University of Waikato campus, which are agreed to by the supervisors and the candidate.

Contractual Arrangements

Formal contractual terms and conditions for a candidate to work within an external organisation and to receive support by way of a scholarship, a study award, access to facilities and other benefits must be established through the University of Waikato’s Research Office (UNILink). The candidate will normally be required to sign an agreement with the University of Waikato. This will include agreements on publication rights and ownership of intellectual property (IP), progress reports, and submission and examination of theses.