Doctor of Philosophy (006253G) — Deakin University

Course Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 006253G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) (CRICOS 00113B, Government) over 4 years (208 weeks). This course is classified under the field of Engineering and Related Technologies (n.e.c.) and is conducted entirely in English. It does not include a dual qualification, foundation studies, VET national code, or work component. The course is available at three delivery locations: Centre for Regional and Rural Futures (Deakin University) in Hanwood, NSW; Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus in Geelong, VIC; and Deakin University, Melbourne Burwood Campus in Burwood, VIC. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, which ensures tuition protection, transparent fee arrangements, and access to complaint processes. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD is one of the many options available at the doctoral level.

What You'll Study

This Doctor of Philosophy focuses on Engineering and Related Technologies (n.e.c.), a broad field encompassing emerging and interdisciplinary areas not covered by other engineering specialisations. At AQF Level 10, the program emphasises independent research, critical analysis, and the creation of new knowledge. Students typically undertake a substantial research project under supervision, culminating in a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. Learning outcomes include the ability to design and execute original research, communicate complex ideas effectively, and contribute to professional practice. While the specific research topics vary, graduates are expected to develop advanced skills in problem-solving, project management, and scholarly writing. Deakin University provides access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and research networks aligned with this field. For a detailed syllabus, consult Deakin University directly.

Duration and Study Mode

The Doctor of Philosophy is a 4-year full-time program, corresponding to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual degree or combined pathway is offered. Study mode is on-campus at one of Deakin's three delivery locations, with a strong emphasis on regular supervision and access to university facilities. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500). There is no foundation studies component; however, applicants without a relevant research background may need to complete a master's degree or graduate diploma first. The course is designed to be completed within the specified duration, though extensions may be granted under exceptional circumstances.

Fees (Indicative — Set by Deakin University)

The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy is A$192,944, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$192,944. Please note this amount does 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$600–A$1,200 per year depending on the provider. Living costs vary by location: in Geelong or Burwood (Melbourne), a single student might budget A$450–A$650 per week for rent, groceries, and transport; in Hanwood (NSW), costs may be lower. Always confirm current fees with Deakin University at deakin.edu.au, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative data only — fees are set by institutions and may be updated annually. The ESOS Act requires providers to publish accurate fee information, but we recommend verifying with Deakin directly before applying.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

For international students, the typical entry requirement for this Doctor of Philosophy is an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0–6.5 (depending on the discipline). Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with honours (at least Class IIA) or a master's degree with a research component. In some cases, relevant professional experience or publications may be considered. Deakin University also assesses research proposals and potential supervisors. There is no foundation or pathway program integrated into this course; however, Deakin offers pre-research skills programs. Always check the specific requirements on Deakin's website, as entry criteria can differ by research area. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission — the university's decision is final. For visa purposes, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or practicum required as part of the program. 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 university breaks. These work rights are subject to visa conditions and can be used for part-time employment in research-related or other roles. Students should be aware that work should not interfere with study progress. The absence of a work component means the entire duration is focused on research and thesis preparation. For those seeking work experience, Deakin may offer optional teaching assistantships or research assistant positions, but these are not guaranteed.

Delivery Locations

The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at three locations in Australia, each offering distinct advantages: 1) Centre for Regional and Rural Futures (Deakin University) in Hanwood, NSW — a regional campus near Griffith with lower living costs and a close-knit research community. 2) Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus in Geelong, VIC — located about 75km south-west of Melbourne, Geelong is a growing regional city with a student population of over 15,000. Average weekly rent is around A$350–A$450. 3) Deakin University, Melbourne Burwood Campus in Burwood, VIC — a major metropolitan campus in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. Melbourne is Australia's largest city for international students, with over 250,000 enrolled. Weekly living costs in Melbourne are typically A$500–A$650. Each campus provides dedicated research facilities and supervisor access. Public transport is available at all locations, with Melbourne boasting extensive tram, train, and bus networks.

Student Visa

International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Deakin University; meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion; sufficient English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0); adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year for a single student as of 2026), and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. Dependents may accompany the student on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). After course completion, graduates may explore post-study work visas (Subclass 485). HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition assurance and refund policies.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University (Deakin):

**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy’s tools to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Deakin University (CRICOS 00113B) is current. Compare multiple providers and course outcomes.

**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** Visit Deakin University’s website (deakin.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements for research degrees. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and referee reports. Submit an online application before the deadline. Some programs require you to secure a supervisor first.

**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** If accepted, Deakin will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC policy details, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Once granted, you can arrange travel and accommodation.

Explore more doctoral degrees or contact Deakin University directly for application details.

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