Doctor of Philosophy - Civil and Environmental Engineering (CRICOS course code 001016F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows students to delve deep into civil and environmental engineering topics, contributing original knowledge to the field. UNSW is a leading Australian university with a strong reputation in engineering research. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian government standards for international students. The program is based at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, a vibrant city with a large international student community. Sydney offers excellent public transport and a high quality of life, though living costs are higher than the national average. The indicative total fee for this course is A$257,000, which includes tuition and non-tuition fees. This page provides detailed information on the course structure, entry requirements, student visa, and how to apply. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. This program is ideal for those seeking a career in academia or research. Students must plan for additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights. Always consult the provider for the most current information.
Doctor of Philosophy - Civil and Environmental Engineering (CRICOS 001016F) is the highest academic qualification at AQF Level 10. It requires independent research culminating in a thesis that makes a significant original contribution to knowledge. The field of education is Civil Engineering (n.e.c.) under Engineering and Related Technologies (Field 03). UNSW is a Group of Eight research university, known for its strong engineering faculty. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW is authorized to enrol overseas students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, helping you compare courses and providers.
Doctoral candidates in Civil and Environmental Engineering engage in original research under experienced supervisors. The program develops advanced research skills, critical analysis, and expertise in areas such as structural engineering, water resources, geotechnical engineering, environmental sustainability, and transportation. Students are expected to produce a thesis of publishable quality. The specific research topic depends on the candidate's interests and the supervisor's expertise. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or senior roles in industry and government. This level of study demands dedication, self-motivation, and a strong foundation in engineering principles.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). The program is delivered full-time in English. It is a single qualification — no dual degrees or foundation studies are included. There is no work component. Part-time study options may be available but could affect visa conditions and total duration. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is essential.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy - Civil and Environmental Engineering is A$253,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, amenities) are estimated at A$4,000, bringing the estimated total to A$257,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on UNSW's website. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–800 per year; living expenses – indicative A$20,000–30,000 per year (rent, groceries, transport); and the Student visa application fee – A$1,600 (as of 2026). Budget accordingly.
English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Prior qualifications: typically a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with honours in a related engineering field. Some applicants may have a coursework Master's with a research component. A strong academic record and research proposal are often required. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this doctoral level. Contact UNSW for specific requirements as they may vary. Always check the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
No work component is included. This course does not have a mandatory internship or work placement. However, students may seek casual employment during their studies, subject to visa work conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). The primary focus is on research and thesis completion.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse population and over 1,300 CRICOS-registered providers. The Kensington campus is well-connected by public transport: light rail (UNSW stop), buses, and nearby train stations. Living costs in Sydney: indicative weekly rent A$400–600, groceries A$80–150, transport A$40–60. The city offers a vibrant student life with many cultural attractions. Consider your budget when choosing Sydney as a study destination.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain full-time enrolment, meet course progress and attendance requirements, and hold OSHC for the entire visa period. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies — you must demonstrate genuine intent to study and return home. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). The ESOS Act provides protections for international students, including tuition refund guarantees and support services.
Sydney offers world-class education, a multicultural environment, and excellent career opportunities. However, it has a high cost of living compared to other Australian cities. If you prefer a more affordable option, consider cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, or Adelaide. Sydney's public transport makes commuting easy, but rent is a major expense. Weigh these factors against your study goals and budget. HeadStart Academy can help you compare courses across different locations.
Follow this three-step process: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by doctoral level, civil engineering field, and location (Sydney). Compare different universities. 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Check entry requirements, prepare your English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and submit your application by the deadline. You may need a research proposal and academic transcripts. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UNSW issues a CoE. Apply online for the Subclass 500 visa via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent. Good luck!
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Doctor of Philosophy - Civil and Environmental Engineering is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.