Doctor of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) (CRICOS course code 003312D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows students to make a significant contribution to knowledge in the natural and physical sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (003312D) at a leading Australian university (UWA, CRICOS 00126G), it meets rigorous quality standards and is eligible for international student enrolment. Graduates emerge as independent researchers prepared for careers in academia, industry, or government. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, finding the right doctoral program is easier with verified data. Read on for key details on fees, entry requirements, and the application process.
Doctor of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) (CRICOS course code 003312D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 4 years. This course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (field of education 019999), encompassing advanced research in physical and biological disciplines. UWA, a government-owned university in Crawley, Western Australia, is registered on CRICOS (provider code 00126G) to enrol international students. The program is designed to produce graduates capable of independent research, critical analysis, and scholarly communication. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive the same protections as domestic students. All data here is from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), this program requires students to undertake a substantial research project culminating in a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The field of Natural and Physical Sciences, n.e.c. (019999) allows for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physical and biological sciences. Typical learning outcomes include advanced research design, data analysis, scientific writing, and the ability to communicate complex ideas. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, all doctoral candidates must demonstrate independent critical thinking and mastery of their chosen specialisation. Graduates are prepared for roles in research institutions, universities, and science-driven industries. The University of Western Australia provides state-of-the-art facilities and expert supervision to support this journey.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not dual or combined). Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though some research may be conducted off-site. The course does not include a foundation studies component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their student visa. The 4-year duration aligns with the standard PhD timeline in Australia, with the option of a part-time pathway for domestic students (not available for international visa holders). UWA offers a supportive research environment with access to libraries, labs, and academic resources.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$210,400, with non-tuition fees of A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$211,892. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change – always confirm directly with UWA before applying. This fee does 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 the provider. Living costs in Perth (where UWA's Crawley campus is located) are estimated at around A$21,000-A$25,000 per year, including rent (A$200-A$400 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80-A$150 per week), and transport (A$30-A$60 per week). For current fees, visit the UWA website: http://www.uwa.edu.au/.
Entry to a Doctoral Degree typically requires a Bachelor's degree with honours (at least 2A) or a Master's degree with a research component. For this course, UWA expects applicants to demonstrate strong academic background in physical or biological sciences. English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (no band less than 6.0-6.5, depending on the discipline). Some disciplines may require a higher score. Applicants must also submit a research proposal and identify a potential supervisor. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, students with a strong coursework Master's may be considered. For precise requirements, contact UWA directly. All CRICOS-registered providers have published entry criteria on their websites.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows doctoral candidates to gain teaching or research assistant experience if desired, but it is not a requirement of the degree. Always check your visa conditions regarding work rights.
This course is delivered at The University of Western Australia — CRAWLEY, WA. Crawley is a suburb of Perth, the capital of Western Australia. Perth has a growing international student community, with over 50,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a high quality of life, with a Mediterranean climate, affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, and excellent public transport including buses and trains connecting to the campus. UWA's main campus is located near the Swan River, providing a scenic and conducive environment for research. Perth's cost of living is moderate: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300-A$450, and a monthly transport pass costs about A$120-A$150.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany the student and have work rights. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for advice, consult a registered MARA agent. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) at The University of Western Australia (UWA): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Perth, WA). Compare providers and confirm CRICOS registration (UWA CRICOS 00126G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UWA's website, review entry requirements (including IELTS score and research proposal), prepare your documents, and submit an application by the deadline. You may need to identify a supervisor beforehand. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UWA issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. For personalised help, consult a registered migration agent.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with its vast landscapes, strong economy, and a growing international student community. Perth, where UWA is located, is known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The state has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, primarily in Perth, offering a range of degrees. Living costs in WA are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students. However, consider that WA is geographically isolated — travel to other Australian cities requires flights. For doctoral research, WA's natural environment provides excellent opportunities for fieldwork in areas like marine biology, geology, and ecology. UWA is a Group of Eight university with strong research output. If you prefer a relaxed lifestyle with access to outdoor activities, WA could be a great fit.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers like UWA on HeadStart Academy, then contact the university for application details.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Western Australia (UWA). 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.