Doctor of Philosophy (Law) University of Tasmania

Doctor of Philosophy (Law) – University of Tasmania (UTas)

Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 003350J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of Tasmania (UTas) over 4 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to make a significant original contribution to legal scholarship. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00586B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Tasmania, a public institution with campuses in Hobart and Launceston, offers a supportive environment for doctoral research across various areas of law, including criminal justice, environmental law, and human rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD in Law is a prestigious option for those seeking advanced study in the field. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy provides this free resource with no referral fees.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 003350J) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) in the field of Society and Culture, specifically Law (n.f.d.). It is offered by University of Tasmania (UTas), a government university with CRICOS registration 00586B. The program spans 4 years (208 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. International students enrolled in this course are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The University of Tasmania is one of Australia's oldest universities, established in 1890, and is known for its research output in law and legal studies. With a student population of over 30,000, including a significant international cohort, the university provides a vibrant academic community. The course is registered on the CRICOS database, guaranteeing that international students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) upon acceptance.

What You'll Study

This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in law, requiring candidates to undertake a substantial independent research project culminating in a thesis of up to 100,000 words. The field of education, 090900 - Law, n.f.d., encompasses a broad range of legal disciplines. Students typically engage in original research that contributes new knowledge to areas such as constitutional law, international law, commercial law, or legal theory. While the exact syllabus varies by supervisor and topic, candidates are expected to demonstrate critical analysis, rigorous methodology, and scholarly writing. The program includes milestones such as a confirmation of candidature, progress reviews, and a final oral examination. Supervisors are allocated based on research alignment, and students have access to the university's extensive legal databases and libraries. The University of Tasmania's Faculty of Law has a strong research culture, with many staff members holding national and international reputations. This course prepares graduates for careers in academia, policy development, legal practice, or research institutions.

Duration and Study Mode

The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time program, and international students are required to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. The language of instruction is English, and all assessments and the thesis are submitted in English. This is a single qualification; it is not a dual degree or combined program. There is no foundation studies component, meaning students must meet the entry requirements directly. The 4-year duration is typical for doctoral degrees in Australia, although actual completion times may vary. Students should plan for a minimum of 4 years of study, with extensions possible under extenuating circumstances. The program is research-only, with no coursework components, though candidates may be required to complete research training modules. The University of Tasmania offers access to supervision and resources throughout the candidature, including opportunities to attend conferences and publish findings.

Fees (Indicative – Set by University of Tasmania)

The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is A$163,800, as recorded on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. This covers the full 4-year program. The non-tuition fee is listed as A$0, meaning no mandatory additional educational costs beyond tuition. However, the estimated total of A$163,800 does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year. Living costs in Tasmania are relatively affordable compared to mainland cities: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hobart is around A$300–A$450, with groceries and transport adding A$150–A$200 per week. The total cost of living for a single student can be estimated at A$20,000–A$25,000 per year. Always confirm current fees with University of Tasmania directly, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy is a free resource; we do not charge referral fees.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry into Doctor of Philosophy (Law) typically requires a prior qualification in law, such as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Master of Laws (LLM) with a research component. Applicants are expected to have demonstrated research capability, often through a thesis or research project. The English language requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent). Some universities may require higher scores for law programs. Additionally, candidates must secure a supervisor who agrees to oversee their research. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, students who do not meet direct entry may consider a research master's or a Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies. It is essential to refer to the University of Tasmania's official website for precise entry criteria, as requirements can vary by specialization. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa-related questions, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a research degree with no internship, placement, or work experience requirement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Many PhD candidates engage in part-time work such as tutoring, research assistance, or casual jobs to supplement their income. It is important to balance work with study demands, as the primary focus must remain on research progress. The University of Tasmania's Career Development and Employment service can assist students in finding suitable work opportunities. While work is not part of the curriculum, gaining experience in a legal or academic setting can enhance career prospects. Always check visa work limitations with the Department of Home Affairs.

Delivery Locations

Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is delivered at two locations in Tasmania: Hobart (Sandy Bay, TAS) and Launceston (Launceston, TAS). Both campuses offer research facilities, libraries, and supervision. Hobart, the state capital, has a student population of approximately 50,000 and is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers. The Sandy Bay campus is located about 3 km from the city centre and is accessible by public bus. Launceston, the second-largest city in Tasmania, has a smaller student community but offers a quieter lifestyle. The University of Tasmania's Launceston campus is located in the Inveresk Precinct, about 2 km from the city centre. Both cities have a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rents averaging A$250–A$400 for shared accommodation. Public transport networks connect the campuses to surrounding suburbs. Students can choose their preferred location based on lifestyle and supervisory alignment.

Student Visa

International students enrolled in Doctor of Philosophy (Law) are eligible for the Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and adequate OSHC coverage. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied, demonstrating that the student intends to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For this course, the annual living cost requirement is approximately A$21,041 (as per Department of Home Affairs). After graduation, PhD graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) for up to 4 years. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agency; consult a MARA agent for personalized advice.

How to Apply

Applying for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at University of Tasmania involves three key steps:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Start by exploring courses on HeadStart Academy. Filter by doctoral degree level, law field, and Tasmania location. Compare the University of Tasmania with other providers offering PhDs in Law. Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (003350J).

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of Tasmania's international website (www.utas.edu.au/international) to review entry requirements, submit an online application, and provide supporting documents such as academic transcripts, research proposal, and English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0). Deadlines vary – check the intake periods.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times can take several weeks, so apply early.

Visit the University of Tasmania's international website at www.utas.edu.au/international for detailed application information and to start your PhD journey.

Other courses at University of Tasmania (UTas)

View the full University of Tasmania (UTas) profile →

Source-backed course facts

Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Tasmania (UTas). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Doctor of Philosophy (Law)
CRICOS course code
003350J
Provider
University of Tasmania (UTas) (00586B)
Course level
Doctoral Degree
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
208 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$163,800
Estimated total (indicative)
A$163,800
Delivery locations
SANDY BAY, LAUNCESTON
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is A$163,800 for the full 4-year program, as per the CRICOS register (April 2026). This does not include OSHC, living costs, or visa fees. OSHC is mandatory and costs roughly A$600–A$1,000 per year. Living expenses in Tasmania are around A$20,000–A$25,000 annually. Always confirm the latest fees with the University of Tasmania directly, as fees are subject to change.
The CRICOS-registered duration is 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. This is the standard length for a doctoral degree in Australia, though actual completion times may vary. Students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions. Extension options may be available if needed.
Entry typically requires a prior law degree (e.g., LLB or LLM with research component) and demonstrated research capability. The English language requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants must also secure a supervisor. For precise requirements, refer to the University of Tasmania's official website, as criteria can vary by research area.
This course is delivered at two University of Tasmania campuses: Hobart (Sandy Bay) and Launceston. Both locations offer research facilities and supervision. Hobart is the capital with a larger student population, while Launceston provides a quieter setting. Students can choose based on lifestyle and supervisor location.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$163,800 for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (tuition A$163,800). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with University of Tasmania (UTas) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 003350J, offered by University of Tasmania (UTas) (provider code 00586B). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.