Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 000856G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. As a research-intensive program at AQF Level 10, this PhD develops advanced expertise in law, preparing graduates for academic, policy, and high-level professional roles. The course is registered under CRICOS provider 00109J and taught entirely in English at UoN's Newcastle City campus. International students benefit from Australia's ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student support. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options. This page provides indicative fees, entry guidance, and visa essentials for this specific program.
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 000856G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by The University of Newcastle (UoN), a government-funded institution. This research degree requires students to complete a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to the field of law. The program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Law (0909). It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. UoN is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, and this course is listed on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) involves in-depth research training in legal theory, jurisprudence, or specialised areas such as international law, human rights, or commercial law. Students work closely with a supervisor to develop a research proposal, conduct original research, and write a thesis of up to 100,000 words. Graduates typically emerge with advanced analytical, critical thinking, and scholarly writing skills, enabling them to contribute to legal scholarship or practice at the highest level. The program does not include coursework components; it is purely research-focused.
The CRICOS register records a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) for full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual degree options are offered. The program is delivered on campus at The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City). Part-time study may be available for domestic students, but international students must generally maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) are A$166,212, with non-tuition fees of A$1,608, bringing the estimated total to A$167,820. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. The university sets final fees — always confirm directly with The University of Newcastle (UoN) before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website at www.newcastle.edu.au.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a completed Master's degree (or equivalent) with a substantial research component, or a Bachelor's degree with first-class honours. An IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0) is commonly required for English proficiency. Other English tests like TOEFL or PTE may also be accepted. Foundation or pathway programs are not available for this level. Prospective students should check the specific entry criteria on The University of Newcastle (UoN) website and contact the Graduate Research School for individual assessment.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a research student, you may have opportunities to engage in teaching or research assistance roles within the university, which could be paid. These positions are not part of the CRICOS course structure and are subject to visa work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term).
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City) campus in Newcastle, New South Wales. Newcastle is a major regional city with a population over 500,000 and a significant student population. The city has more than 10 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. Living costs in Newcastle are lower than in Sydney: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50. The campus is well-served by buses and trains, making it accessible from surrounding suburbs.
International students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents (Subclass 500 with family) may have restricted work rights. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Verify that The University of Newcastle (UoN) (CRICOS 00109J) is registered for this course (CRICOS 000856G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (qualifications, English test scores) and application deadlines. Submit your application through UoN's online portal, including research proposal, academic transcripts, and referee reports.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, UoN issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Newcastle offers a coastal lifestyle with affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong research culture, particularly at UoN, and a supportive international student community. Public transport connects the campus to accommodation hubs like Cooks Hill, Mayfield, and Jesmond. Consider your preferences for climate, social activities, and proximity to Sydney (about 1.5 hours by train). For a PhD in Law, Newcastle provides a quieter environment conducive to focused research, with access to legal archives and courts nearby. Evaluate whether the city matches your study and lifestyle needs.
All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. The University of Newcastle (UoN) is a CRICOS-registered provider (00109J) and is subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student rights. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commissions or referral fees. We cover 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers. Always confirm details directly with the institution and the Department of Home Affairs for visa matters.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at The University of Newcastle (UoN) today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.