Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 006396D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows you to produce a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to legal scholarship. UNSW is a leading Australian university located in Sydney, offering world-class supervision and facilities. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW can enrol international students, and all courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). This page gives you a transparent overview of fees, entry requirements, visa considerations, and the pathways to start your PhD in Law at UNSW. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge referral fees or commissions.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS 006396D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). The program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (0909 Law). As a PhD candidate, you will undertake independent research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis that demonstrates a significant contribution to knowledge in law. UNSW, a government university, is consistently ranked among the top law schools globally, with strong links to legal practice and policy. The CRICOS registration ensures that this course meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offer more than 26,000 courses to international students in Australia, and this PhD is one of the few doctoral programs in law available.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Law is a research degree. You will not follow a taught syllabus but will design and execute a substantial research project. Typically, you will develop advanced skills in legal research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. You may explore areas such as constitutional law, human rights, commercial law, or legal theory, depending on your supervisor's expertise. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, legal practice, policy development, and leadership roles. While the exact focus is unique to each candidate, all PhDs in Law require a deep engagement with legal sources, rigorous argumentation, and a final thesis of 80,000-100,000 words.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 4 years (208 weeks) in duration. It is delivered in English as a single qualification (no dual awards). Study is full-time and on-campus at UNSW Kensington. Part-time options may be available but can affect your student visa conditions – always check with the provider. There is no foundation studies component integrated into this program.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) are: tuition A$223,000, non-tuition fees A$4,000, giving an estimated total of A$227,000 for the full program. These fees are set by UNSW and subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check UNSW's official website (www.unsw.edu.au). As a guide, international students in Sydney typically budget A$25,000–A$35,000 per year for living expenses (rent, groceries, transport). The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees through tuition protection arrangements.
Entry into this PhD typically requires a prior qualification in law, such as a master's degree (by research) or a bachelor's degree with honours. Minimum English language proficiency is IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (or equivalent). UNSW may require a higher score, e.g., IELTS 7.0 with no band below 6.5. Always confirm directly with UNSW. There are no foundation or pathway options directly into this PhD; you may need to complete a master's first. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult UNSW international admissions for detailed requirements.
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) includes no mandatory work component. It is a research degree with no integrated internship or placement. However, student visa holders have permission to work: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered only at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb of Sydney, approximately 6 km from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport (bus and light rail) and is close to shopping, dining, and accommodation. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering law programs. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$500–A$700.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2025, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). With this visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act.
Follow these three steps specific to Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to explore doctoral degrees in law across Australia. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree) and field (Law) to compare options. UNSW is one of many providers.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check UNSW's official website for entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. You will need to submit a research proposal, academic transcripts, and referee reports. Applications are typically assessed by the Faculty of Law.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once UNSW accepts your application, you receive a CoE. Then lodge your visa application via ImmiAccount, providing evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE.
Sydney offers a vibrant legal community, with many law firms, courts, and research centres. UNSW's Kensington campus is near the CBD, providing networking and internship opportunities. The city has a diverse population, excellent public transport, and a high cost of living. If you prefer a quieter environment or lower costs, consider other Australian cities like Melbourne or Brisbane, each with their own CRICOS-registered law PhDs. HeadStart Academy has detailed state pages (e.g., /states/nsw) to help you compare.
Ready to start your PhD in Law at UNSW? Explore more CRICOS-registered doctoral degrees in law on HeadStart Academy and take the first step today.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.