Doctor of Philosophy (Laws) (CRICOS course code 003316M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for students seeking to undertake advanced research in law, contributing original knowledge to the field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00126G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this PhD program stands out for its rigorous research training and expert supervision. Prospective students should consider entry requirements, fees, and visa conditions carefully. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—no commission, no referral fees—to help you make informed decisions.
This Doctoral Degree falls under the broad field of Education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0909 - Law, n.f.d. (not further defined). As a PhD candidate, you will undertake independent research that makes a significant and original contribution to legal knowledge. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to critically analyse legal frameworks, design and execute a research project, and communicate findings to academic and professional audiences. The program does not prescribe a specific syllabus; instead, you work with a supervisory team to develop a thesis on a chosen topic. Research areas may include constitutional law, international law, human rights, or legal theory. This level of study also develops transferable skills in analysis, problem-solving, and project management.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—no dual or combined awards. Students typically enrol full-time, but part-time options may be available with visa implications. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is usually a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). The course is delivered on campus at UWA in Crawley, WA. As a PhD, you will also have access to research facilities, libraries, and online resources. Note that the CRICOS duration reflects the standard timeframe; actual completion may vary based on progress.
Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$158,400. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$159,892. These fees are set by UWA and subject to change—always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For international students in Perth, indicative weekly costs: rent A$250–450, groceries A$70–100, public transport A$30–50. For the latest fee schedule, visit the UWA website at http://www.uwa.edu.au/.
Entry requirements vary by institution. Typically, a Doctoral Degree requires a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with honours (Class I or IIA) in a relevant field. For this PhD in Laws, a background in law or a related discipline is expected. English language proficiency: IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent, e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Some candidates may enter via a Master's by research pathway. Foundation or pathway options are generally not applicable at this level. Always check the provider's official entry requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; consult UWA admissions directly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa holder, you may be eligible to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Note that this is a right, not an obligation. Prioritise your research commitments, as PhD programs are demanding.
The course is delivered at The University of Western Australia — Crawley, WA. Crawley is a suburb of Perth, the capital of Western Australia. Perth has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student population. The UWA campus is located near the Swan River, with public transport options including buses and the free CAT bus service. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, but still significant. International students should budget for rent, groceries, and transport. UWA also offers on-campus accommodation options.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: evidence of enrolment via Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and English proficiency. OSHC must be arranged for the visa duration. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions also include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not working before course commencement. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent—consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring refunds and complaint mechanisms.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Laws) at The University of Western Australia (UWA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers.** Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Law), and location (WA). Confirm that the course and provider are currently registered on CRICOS. UWA is a government university with CRICOS code 00126G.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution.** Visit UWA's website and find the PhD application page. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test scores, and referee reports. Check application deadlines (often multiple intake periods). Submit your application and pay any application fees.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500).** If accepted, UWA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Visa processing times vary—apply early.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered doctoral programs on HeadStart Academy, or contact UWA directly for application details.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Laws) 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.