Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) (CRICOS course code 001060B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 course is designed for students aiming to conduct original research in optical science, specifically in optometry, and contribute new knowledge to the field. UNSW, a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) and a leading Australian Government university, offers this program at its Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. With an indicative total cost of A$246,500, including tuition and non-tuition fees, this course provides a pathway to advanced careers in research, academia, or clinical practice. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and UNSW is among the most reputable. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, guaranteeing quality education and consumer rights. Explore this page to understand everything about this PhD program, from entry requirements to student visa details.
Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) (CRICOS 001060B) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) in the field of Health (06), specifically Optical Science (0609) and Optometry (060901). It is delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (CRICOS 00098G), a government-funded institution renowned for its research output. The program spans 4 years (208 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It does not include a work component or dual qualification. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality and consumer protections under the ESOS Act. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
At the Doctoral Degree level, students are expected to undertake independent research that makes a significant original contribution to knowledge. In the field of optometry, this typically involves advanced study of the visual system, ocular diseases, diagnostic techniques, and therapeutic interventions. Graduates develop skills in research design, data analysis, critical evaluation, and scholarly communication. While specific curriculum details are set by UNSW, typical research areas in optometry include myopia control, contact lenses, binocular vision, and low vision rehabilitation. Students work closely with a supervisor and complete a thesis. The program emphasises innovation and prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, clinical research, or industry.
According to the CRICOS register, Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not involve foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at UNSW's Kensington location. The program is research-based, requiring consistent engagement with supervisors and university resources. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fee: A$242,500. Non-tuition fees: A$4,000. Estimated total: A$246,500. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For up-to-date fee information, always confirm directly with UNSW's website. The table below summarises the cost breakdown.
Entry requirements for Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) at UNSW typically include an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent English language test). Candidates are expected to hold a prior qualification equivalent to an Australian Honours degree or Master's degree in a relevant field, with a strong research component. Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal and attend an interview. UNSW may also consider prior learning or professional experience. For international students, English proficiency is mandatory. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; students must meet the entry criteria directly. Always check the specific requirements on UNSW's website as they are subject to change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Subclass 500 student visa are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain practical experience while studying. UNSW may offer optional research internships or teaching assistantships, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered course structure.
Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, with over 200,000 international students and a vibrant multicultural environment. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and transport A$40–A$60. Kensington itself has several parks, cafes, and proximity to Coogee Beach. The campus hosts state-of-the-art research facilities and libraries.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover fees and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of study. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is essential to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and comply with visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) and course 001060B meet your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UNSW's website to check entry requirements, prepare your English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0), academic transcripts, research proposal, and meet application deadlines. Apply through UNSW's admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online, including OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more doctoral programs in optometry or contact UNSW directly for application details.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Optometry) 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.