Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 006244J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research and make a significant original contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. Deakin University, a government-backed CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00113B), offers this PhD across three Victorian campuses, giving you the flexibility to study in Geelong, Melbourne, or Warrnambool. With an indicative total fee of A$159,960, this course provides a rigorous academic environment supported by world-class facilities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards and is eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study options using data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 006244J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 4 years (208 weeks). This course sits at AQF Level 10 under the field of Education (07) – Curriculum and Education Studies (0703) – Education Studies (070303). As a research-intensive degree, the PhD requires you to undertake supervised original research culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to your discipline. Deakin University is a public, government-funded institution that has been welcoming international students for decades. With CRICOS registration (00113B), you can be confident that this course meets the quality standards enforced by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this PhD is one of the most advanced qualifications you can pursue.
As a Doctoral Degree in Education Studies, the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin immerses you in advanced research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and critical analysis within the field of curriculum and education studies. You will work closely with a supervisory panel to design, conduct, and report on a substantial research project. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to synthesize complex ideas, generate original insights, and communicate findings to academic and professional audiences. While specific coursework may vary, all PhD candidates are expected to demonstrate independence, intellectual rigour, and a deep understanding of their research area. The field of Education Studies encompasses topics like educational policy, pedagogy, assessment, and social contexts of learning. Deakin's strong research culture means you'll have access to seminars, workshops, and a vibrant community of scholars.
The Doctor of Philosophy is structured as a 4-year full-time program, equivalent to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree. Deakin does not list a mandatory work component for this course, meaning you can focus entirely on your research. While the CRICOS register shows no foundation studies component, international students who do not meet direct entry requirements may explore pathway options through Deakin's pre-masters or research preparation programs. Always check with Deakin for the latest information on study modes, as part-time options may be available under certain visa conditions.
Indicative fees for the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$159,960 for the full duration, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$159,960. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Victoria typically budget around A$500–700 per week for accommodation, food, transport, and other living costs. OSHC is mandatory and costs roughly A$500–600 per year for single cover. Always confirm current fees with Deakin University directly, as fees are set by the institution and may change.
For entry into the Doctor of Philosophy, you generally need to have completed a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) or a master's degree with a significant research component. Deakin University typically requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5), or an equivalent English language test result. These are indicative – exact requirements vary by research area and supervisor availability. You may also need to submit a research proposal and demonstrate prior academic excellence. If you do not meet these entry criteria, Deakin offers foundation or pathway programs; check the provider's website for details. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission – you must apply directly to Deakin.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, your time is primarily dedicated to your thesis and associated research activities. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while you study.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at three Deakin University campuses in Victoria:
Geelong and Warrnambool offer a more regional lifestyle with lower living costs compared to Melbourne. Geelong has a population of around 250,000 and is a growing student city with multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Warrnambool is a coastal city with a strong community feel. Melbourne Burwood is in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, a major international student hub with excellent public transport. Each campus has its own research facilities and supervision capacity. Your choice of location may depend on your supervisory team's base.
To study this Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for a single student), and travel. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition is safeguarded if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent for visa advice.
Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University is a straightforward process. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral degrees across Australia. Filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm that Deakin University (CRICOS 00113B) offers the research area you're interested in.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Deakin's website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and referee reports. Submit your application through Deakin's online portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once Deakin accepts your application, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statements.
Victoria is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, and excellent public transport. Geelong and Warrnambool offer a quieter lifestyle with lower cost of living. Typical weekly expenses for an international student in Victoria range from A$500–700 for accommodation, food, and transport. Regional areas like Geelong and Warrnambool may have even lower costs. Consider your research community, supervision requirements, and personal preferences when choosing a campus. Deakin's multi-campus structure gives you flexibility.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered doctoral degrees on HeadStart Academy, or visit Deakin's website to apply.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Deakin University (Deakin). 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.