Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 (CRICOS course code 001547A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 4 years. This course, offered under CRICOS provider code 00125J, is designed for international students seeking the highest level of academic qualification in Australia. The field of education is Information Technology (029999), encompassing advanced research and innovation in IT. Murdoch University, a government-funded institution, is located in Murdoch, Western Australia, a vibrant suburb of Perth. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, this PhD program stands out for its research-intensive curriculum and expert supervision. Students will develop critical thinking, independent research skills, and contribute original knowledge to their field. The program is fully accredited under the ESOS Act, ensuring international student rights and protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 (CRICOS course code 001547A) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 4 years (208 weeks). The course falls under the field of Education: Information Technology (029999). As a research-intensive program, it is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in academia, research, or high-level industry roles. Murdoch University is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation for research and teaching. The course is conducted entirely in English and does not include a work component. It is a single qualification with no dual award. This page provides indicative fee information, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help international students make informed decisions. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
As a Doctoral Degree in Information Technology, students will engage in original research that advances knowledge in their chosen area. The program typically involves coursework in research methods, followed by a substantial thesis. Graduates of this level are expected to demonstrate mastery of a complex field, ability to conceptualise and design research, and capacity to communicate findings to academic and non-academic audiences. They often go on to lead research teams, teach at universities, or drive innovation in the IT sector. The specific research areas may include artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more. Students work closely with a supervisor to develop their research proposal and execute a project over the duration of the candidature. This is a general description and not a specific syllabus; prospective students should consult Murdoch University for current research topics and available supervisors.
The Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 is a 4-year program, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning students receive one award upon completion—a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to undertake full-time research under the guidance of a supervisory panel. The program may include a combination of coursework and thesis, but the primary mode is independent research. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. The duration is indicative and may vary depending on research progress and individual circumstances; confirmation of the exact duration should be sought from Murdoch University.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 is A$148,800 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, and student services) are estimated at A$1,460, bringing the estimated total to A$150,260. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–700 per year. Living costs in Perth (where Murdoch University is located) are around A$21,000–A$25,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses. Fees are set by Murdoch University and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees on the official Murdoch University website before applying. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students applying for Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 at Murdoch University must meet English language requirements, typically an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. For the PhD program, applicants are expected to hold a Master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component, or a Bachelor's degree with Honours (AQF Level 8) with first-class honours. Some candidates may also have relevant professional experience or a record of research output. A research proposal aligned with Murdoch's areas of research strength is usually required. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not applicable for direct entry to a PhD. However, students who do not meet the requirements may consider a preliminary Master's by Research. Always refer to Murdoch University's official website for precise entry requirements, as they may vary by discipline.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 is a research-intensive program that focuses on independent study and thesis preparation. Students are not required to undertake work placements or internships as part of the degree. However, many PhD candidates choose to engage in part-time work outside of study, such as tutoring, research assistance, or casual employment, to supplement their income and gain experience. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. It is important to balance work commitments with the demanding research schedule of a PhD.
Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb approximately 14 km south of Perth's central business district. The campus is well connected by public transport, including train and bus services from Perth's CBD (approximately 25 minutes by train). Perth is home to over 200,000 international students and has a diverse, vibrant community. The city offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly expenses of A$350–A$500 for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. Students have access to extensive research facilities, libraries, and student support services at Murdoch. For more details about the campus location, see the provider page on HeadStart Academy.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) or be eligible for another visa that allows study. The Student visa permits full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. To obtain a visa, students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and OSHC), and have adequate health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. It is also essential to comply with visa conditions regarding attendance and academic progress. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 at Murdoch University involves three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Information Technology), and location (Western Australia). Confirm that Murdoch University (CRICOS 00125J) offers the PhD in your area of interest.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Murdoch University's website (www.murdoch.edu.au) and complete the online application. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), a research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines and any specific requirements for your discipline.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If your application is successful, Murdoch will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, evidence of funds, and meet GTE requirements. For visa assistance, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to start your doctoral journey? Find out more about Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 at Murdoch University and begin your application.
Doctor of Philosophy - Level 1 is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.