Theses with creative components

In a degree with a creative component (for example the Doctor of Visual Arts and the Master of Visual Arts, emphasis is on studio-led research. Examination must be via exhibition & accompanying exegesis, that positions the work in the field. Originality is more likely found and illustrated/expressed via creative works. As described on the Griffith website:

• DVA - This professional development degree, with an integrated program of independent research and coursework, will help you extend your studio research and practice and make original conceptual advancements in your discipline. You will develop the expertise needed to provide leadership in your field, and you will gain research skills and the ability to articulate a theoretical position within a visual arts discourse.
• MVA - With this degree, you will have the opportunity to extend your studio expertise. You will identify challenges, explore innovative solutions and advance your understanding of the concepts underlying your work and the context in which it is produced. As a graduate, you will be able to demonstrate high performance levels in your studio practice, and have developed a strong theoretical understanding of that practice.

The above is in contrast to the Doctor of Philosophy where emphasis is on the contribution to knowledge and the relationship of a query/question to a field/discipline. Examination can be via a number of methods - less likely via exhibition and more likely via traditional thesis submitted as a written document only. As described on the Griffith website:

The PhD) is Griffith's premier research training degree. It is your opportunity to explore a specific research area or topic that you are passionate about. You will be challenged to develop your original research project and receive mentoring and guidance from your supervisor. The PhD is awarded on the basis of a thesis or other substantial research output prepared independently under supervision that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge in the relevant field of study as judged by independent experts of international standing.

The vital consideration is that the research product must be assessable by experts in the relevant field as meeting the requirement of contemporary international standards. Griffith University expects that supervisors are expert advisors on such standards - and monitors that expectation through the various stages of a student's progress, from admission, through confirmation and annual reporting, to the nomination of examiners and the administration of the examination itself.

Both the DVA and the PhD programs are AQF level 10, doctoral level research.