Get direct access to internationally-recognised research excellence that makes an impact.
Learn about research at the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy. View our focus areas, find out how to become a research candidate, and visit our linked centres and institutes – including the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry (IRCI).
ACU ranks first in religion and religious studies in Australia. Our research in philosophy, religion and religious studies was rated 'above world standard' by the Excellence in Research Australia Report.
View rankingsOur research reflects our Catholic ethos, in line with ACU's mission, and revolves around key societal needs. It's also aligned with the research of the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry - one of ACU's key research institutes - with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and collaborative study.
Research within the faculty focuses on four designated areas:
There's a strong connection between the research we pursue and the learning and teaching that takes place across the faculty.
This synergy is unique to our faculty and is animated by events. Held across all ACU campuses, including the Rome campus, these important events highlight the comprehensive network of international partnerships and collaborations, bringing faculty and institute staff together into critical dialogue with international scholars.
The range of events on offer - including the ACU Luminaries Series, and other public lectures - ensures that world-leading research is accessible to the ACU student body, and members of the general public.
Explore upcoming and recently-held annual lectures, talks and conferences on our events page.
Discover our annual events, talks and conferences
Established in 2014 and based in Melbourne, the IRCI is an integral part of the Faculty of Theology and Philosophy, fostering research into fundamental questions and issues associated with what it means to be human. It's also a vibrant hub for higher degree research across its research focus areas.
The Loyola Institute is a partnership between ACU and the Australian Province of the Society of Jesus.
Visit the institute
Plunkett Centre for Ethics
A joint centre of ACU, St Vincent's Health Australia, NSW Facilities and Calvary Health Care; the Plunkett Centre for Ethics has a mission to promote the values of compassion, fellowship, justice, fairness, and intellectual and professional excellence. It aims to realise these values through research, teaching and community engagement, the provision and allocation of healthcare, and by bringing a Catholic perspective to all endeavours.
The QBC focuses on high-quality research, education, and consultancy in the area of bioethics, with engagement and impact at local, national and international levels. The Centre is a collaboration between ACU and the Archdiocese of Brisbane, together with other funding partners.
Bring your research project to Rome. Our campus is a hub for scholars from around the world to collaborate and exchange ideas.
Research with usWe collaborate with industry, community, government and education partners to deliver real-world impact.
Collaborate nowDiscover what support is available for your research, including guidance on how to get funding and manage a project.
Browse nowLearn about our range of research institutes, academies and centres specialising in areas other than health.
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