Enabling higher degree pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Area of Science:

• Indigenous education
• Higher education research
• Academic workforce development

Background:

• Increasing Indigenous participation in research higher degrees is vital for Australia's academic workforce and knowledge production.
• Despite growth, Indigenous student numbers in higher degrees have not reached parity, indicating a need for improved support systems.
• Existing initiatives require enhancement to effectively support Indigenous students in their doctoral journeys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the value of a unique pre-doctoral program designed for Indigenous Australians interested in PhD studies.
• To identify factors influencing Indigenous individuals' decisions to pursue PhD programs.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives supporting Indigenous pathways to higher degree research.

Main Methods:

• The study examines a pre-doctoral program, the only one of its kind in Australia, aimed at informing Indigenous individuals about doctoral studies.
• It contributes to the literature by analyzing factors influencing PhD choices and the success of support programs.
• The research builds on existing evidence to improve university sector initiatives.

Main Results:

• Tailored, Indigenous-led pre-doctoral support programs are essential for Indigenous students.
• Cohort experiences significantly benefit Indigenous higher degree research students.
• Universities must actively value Indigenous peoples and their knowledge systems to foster success.

Conclusions:

• Pre-doctoral programs are effective in informing Indigenous students about PhD pathways.
• Culturally responsive and Indigenous-led support is critical for increasing PhD enrollment and completion rates.
• Systemic changes within universities are needed to create inclusive environments that value Indigenous knowledge.