AQF Level 10

Purpose

The Doctoral Degree qualifies individuals who apply a substantial body of knowledge to research, investigate and develop new knowledge, in one or more fields of investigation, scholarship or professional practice.

Summary

Graduates at this level will have systematic and critical understanding of a complex field of learning and specialised research skills for the advancement of learning and/or for professional practice.

Knowledge

Criteria: Graduates at this level will have a substantial, systematic and critical understanding of a complex field of learning and specialised research skills.

Descriptor: Graduates of a Doctoral Degree will have a substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of a field of work or learning, including knowledge that constitutes an original contribution.

Skills

Criteria: Graduates at this level will have expert, specialised cognitive, technical and research skills in a field of work and learning to independently and systematically:

• engage in critical reflection, synthesis and evaluation
• develop, adapt and implement research methodologies to extend and redefine existing knowledge or professional practice
• disseminate and promote new insights to peers and the community

Descriptor: Graduates of a Doctoral Degree will have cognitive skills to demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that knowledge and practice.

Application of Knowledge & Skills

Criteria: Graduates at this level will apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, authoritative judgement, adaptability and responsibility as an expert and leading practitioner or scholar.

Descriptor: Graduates of a Doctoral Degree will demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills with initiative and expert judgement to make a substantial contribution to knowledge in the form of new knowledge or significant and original adaptations.

Volume of Learning

The volume of learning is typically 3–4 years.

Pathways

Doctoral Degrees are the highest qualification level in the AQF. They enable lifelong learning and professional practice at the most advanced levels.

Key Information