Doctor of Philosophy (Agricultural & Resource Economics)

This is a pinnacle educational qualification, which demonstrates that the graduate is a world-class researcher.  The PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project that is mutually agreed upon by a student, supervisor, head of school and the Board of the Graduate Research School. It may be undertaken in any teaching area in the University.  The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature or as the result of a new theory. The thesis demonstrates a student's ability to document and interpret results, formulate theories and discuss the results in light of the current literature to a high level of competence.  The PhD experience is different because each student undertakes a unique course tailored to their interests and needs. All students undertake research that is assessed in the form of a thesis and viva voce.  Students may also undertake taught units, industry placements and other developmental activities. We study many aspects of agriculture from an economic perspective, including crop and rotation choice, crop input management, pasture and livestock management, climate change impacts on agriculture, carbon storage on farms, soil conservation, farm risk management, and more.