Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture (CRICOS course code 000665C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Sydney over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for international students seeking to advance research and expertise in agricultural science. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring you benefit from ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to solve global food security challenges or innovate sustainable farming practices, this PhD offers a rigorous research environment on two Sydney campuses. The indicative tuition is A$232,610, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,522, making a total estimated cost of A$234,132. Please note this is not inclusive of OSHC, living expenses, or visa costs – always check with the provider for current fees. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture (CRICOS course code 000665C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Sydney over 4 years (208 weeks). As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it represents the highest level of academic achievement in Australia. This course falls under the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies (broad field 05), specifically Agriculture (narrow field 0501) and Agriculture, n.e.c. (detailed field 050199). The program is research-intensive, culminating in a thesis that contributes original knowledge to the discipline. The University of Sydney is a public government university, one of Australia's prestigious Group of Eight institutions, and holds CRICOS provider code 00026A. All international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition fee safeguards and quality standards. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options, and no mandatory work component. English is the language of instruction, and the indicative English requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with specific band scores determined by the university). For the most accurate and up-to-date entry requirements, always consult the provider's website at http://sydney.edu.au.
As a doctoral candidate in Agriculture, you will engage in original research that advances knowledge in agricultural science. The field encompasses a broad range of topics including crop production, soil science, plant breeding, pest management, agricultural economics, and sustainable farming systems. At the PhD level, you are expected to design and execute a substantial research project, analyse data critically, and communicate findings through a thesis and scholarly publications. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, typical learning outcomes include developing advanced research methodologies, contributing to theoretical frameworks, and solving complex problems in agriculture. This degree prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, agribusiness, and international development. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD is one of the many research options available. The knowledge you gain will be grounded in Australia's unique agricultural context, with opportunities to work on issues relevant to both local and global food systems.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture has a standard duration of 4 years, equating to 208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research degree. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual degree). There are no foundation studies or VET components associated with this course. The program is delivered through a combination of supervised research, coursework (if required by the faculty), and seminars. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The University of Sydney offers extensive research facilities and support services, including libraries, laboratories, and academic supervision. It is important to note that the duration may vary based on individual progress and thesis completion; always confirm with the provider for specific program timelines.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture is A$232,610 for the full 4-year program. In addition, non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,522, bringing the estimated total to A$234,132. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are provided as a guide only. Important: These fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For international students, OSHC is mandatory and costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on coverage. Living expenses in Sydney are higher than the Australian average – indicative weekly costs include rent (A$350–A$600 for shared accommodation or studio), groceries (A$100–A$150), and public transport (A$30–A$50). Always check The University of Sydney's official website for current fee schedules and payment options, as fees are subject to change.
Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture typically requires a master's degree or an honours degree (at least second class upper) in a relevant discipline such as agricultural science, biology, environmental science, or related fields. The indicative English language requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0, but specific scores must be confirmed with the university). Equivalent English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. Some applicants may need to complete a research proposal or secure a supervisor before applying. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this level; however, the university offers preparatory programs that may enhance research skills. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission – the university assesses applications holistically. We recommend consulting the provider's website for precise entry criteria and application deadlines. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; for visa-related questions, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture is a research-intensive degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation. While there may be opportunities for casual teaching or research assistant roles within the university, these are not part of the formal curriculum and are not required for completion. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Always check your visa conditions regarding work.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture is delivered at two campuses: Camden Campus (Plant Breeding Institute) in Cobbity, NSW, and The University of Sydney main campus in Camperdown, NSW. Camden Campus is located in Sydney's semi-rural outskirts, about 65 km southwest of the city centre, and is a specialist facility for agricultural and veterinary research. Camperdown campus is in the heart of Sydney, near the CBD, and offers full research infrastructure. Both locations are well-connected by public transport – Camperdown via trains and buses, Camden via buses (though a car is recommended). Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 5 million residents and around 200,000 international students. It is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers (over 150 in the city alone). Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia, but the city offers a vibrant multicultural environment, excellent dining, and world-class attractions. For study, Sydney's research ecosystem is robust, especially in agriculture given its proximity to rural regions.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Sydney. Other requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is crucial to maintain enrolment and attendance to comply with visa conditions. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders – the university often offers a preferred provider. Always verify the latest visa regulations.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture at The University of Sydney:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to confirm that The University of Sydney (provider code 00026A) and this course (000665C) are registered. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the right program.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Review the entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications, research proposal). Prepare your documents and submit an application through The University of Sydney's online portal. Note deadlines – PhD applications may be accepted year-round, but specific scholarship rounds have cut-off dates.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
For additional support, HeadStart Academy provides free resources, but we do not process applications or visas.
Sydney offers a unique blend of urban lifestyle and access to rural landscapes, making it an excellent choice for agricultural research. The city has a large international student community, with over 200,000 students from around the world. Public transport connects campuses, though the Camden campus is more remote. Living costs in Sydney are high – indicative weekly expenses are A$500–A$800 for a single person (rent, food, transport). However, part-time work opportunities (up to 48 hours per fortnight) can help offset costs. The University of Sydney consistently ranks among the top universities globally, providing world-class facilities and networks. Consider your budget, study location preferences, and career goals when deciding. For a more affordable alternative, you might explore other states. HeadStart Academy lists all CRICOS-registered providers across Australia to help you compare.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore the Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture on The University of Sydney's website, or use HeadStart Academy to compare other Doctoral Degrees in Agriculture across Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.