Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 006262G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students who wish to conduct original research and contribute new knowledge in the field of natural and physical sciences. Deakin University, a government university with CRICOS 00113B, offers this course at its Geelong Waurn Ponds and Melbourne Burwood campuses. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this PhD under the Student visa (Subclass 500) and benefit from ESOS Act protections. The indicative total cost is A$192,944, with no non-tuition fees, though students should budget for OSHC, living costs, and visa charges.
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Deakin University is a research-intensive doctoral program that typically takes 3–4 years full-time. It is classified under AQF Level 10, the highest level of tertiary education in Australia. This particular course (006262G) falls within the Natural and Physical Sciences field, specifically 'Natural and Physical Sciences, n.e.c.,' which allows for interdisciplinary or specialised research topics not captured by narrower categories. Graduates of a PhD are expected to demonstrate substantial original contributions to knowledge, advanced research skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas. Deakin University, with CRICOS 00113B, has a strong research profile and offers supervision from experienced academics. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring international students receive quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. As a PhD candidate, you will work closely with supervisors to design and execute a research project, culminating in a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. This degree opens career paths in academia, research institutions, industry R&D, and government positions.
This Doctor of Philosophy covers the broad field of Natural and Physical Sciences, focusing on areas not elsewhere classified. This may include interdisciplinary topics combining multiple scientific disciplines or emerging fields that do not fit into traditional categories. Students will engage in advanced research training, including literature review, research design, data collection and analysis, and academic writing. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills. While the specific research topic depends on the student's proposal and supervisor expertise, the overall curriculum aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 10 descriptors. Graduates will have the capacity to contribute new knowledge to their chosen field, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and present at conferences. The research environment at Deakin includes access to modern laboratories, libraries, and research networks.
The CRICOS register lists the duration of course 006262G as 4 years (208 weeks). This is the maximum time allowed for international students on a Student visa. However, many PhD students complete in 3–4 years depending on progress. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course, meaning it does not lead to a dual award. There is no foundation studies component nor a VET national code as it is a higher education doctoral degree. Students are expected to study full-time on campus to maintain visa compliance, though some research activities may be conducted off-site with approval. The program does not require a mandatory work component; however, students may engage in casual work under their visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS 006262G) at Deakin University are A$192,944 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. Therefore, the estimated total fee is A$192,944. Please note that this figure does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor does it include living expenses, transport, or the visa application charge. For example, living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$500–$700 per week for rent, food, and transport, while Geelong is slightly lower. Always confirm current fees directly with Deakin University, as fees are subject to change. Visit the Deakin website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University typically requires completion of a relevant Master degree or a Bachelor degree with honours (Class IIA or above). For international students, English language proficiency is demonstrated through an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band less than 6.0–6.5, varying by field). Some disciplines may require a higher score. Additionally, you must submit a research proposal and secure a supervisor. Clinical or professional experience may also be considered. Foundation or pathway options are not typically available for direct entry into a PhD; however, you may consider a Master by research as a stepping stone. Deakin University assesses each application individually. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your proposed field of research on the Deakin website.
This course has no mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component' for Doctor of Philosophy (006262G). This means that the degree does not require industrial placement, internship, or work experience as part of the program. However, PhD students often have opportunities to work as casual tutors or research assistants within the university. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), international students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. These work rights apply to all PhD students enrolled full-time.
Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at two Deakin University campuses: Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus in Geelong, Victoria, and Melbourne Burwood Campus in Burwood, Melbourne. Geelong is a regional city with a vibrant student community, lower cost of living compared to Melbourne, and good access to public transport. Melbourne Burwood Campus is located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, offering proximity to the city's cultural and research facilities. Both campuses provide state-of-the-art research infrastructure. When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle preferences and supervisor location. Victoria has over 180 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular destination for international students.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, adequate health insurance (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As a PhD student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The visa duration typically covers the course length plus additional time. You must maintain enrolment and make satisfactory course progress. The Department of Home Affairs manages visa applications. For detailed advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Deakin University (CRICOS 00113B) offers the course code 006262G. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, and referee reports. Submit an online application to Deakin University by their deadline. You may need to identify a potential supervisor beforehand. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Deakin will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to explore your PhD options? Visit the Deakin University website or use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral programs across Australia.
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.