Doctor of Philosophy - Electrical Engineering (CRICOS course code 008977M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This program is designed for international students aiming to conduct original research in electrical engineering, contributing to advances in fields such as power systems, telecommunications, and electronics. UNSW is a government-funded university located in Kensington, NSW, and is registered on CRICOS (provider code 00098G). As a CRICOS-registered provider, UNSW is authorized to enrol international students, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and the ESOS Act. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, study locations, and the application process to help you plan your doctoral studies in Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy - Electrical Engineering (CRICOS course code 008977M) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. The course falls under the field of Electrical Engineering (031301), which is part of Engineering and Related Technologies. This program emphasizes independent research, culminating in a thesis that makes a significant original contribution to knowledge. UNSW Kensington campus hosts state-of-the-art facilities and research centres, providing an environment conducive to high-impact research. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards for international students. Note that this is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering equips graduates with advanced research skills and deep expertise in specialized areas of electrical engineering. Typical learning outcomes include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing complex data, developing theoretical models, and presenting findings in peer-reviewed journals. The program covers areas like signal processing, control systems, power electronics, renewable energy systems, and communication networks. Students work closely with supervisors and may have opportunities to collaborate on industry projects. The exact syllabus varies based on the research topic, but all candidates must complete a research thesis and attend seminars or coursework as required by the department.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) for this course. Study is typically full-time and on-campus at UNSW Kensington. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification program with no dual qualification or foundation studies. Note that the duration may vary based on individual progress, but the registered length is 4 years for visa purposes. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy - Electrical Engineering are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: A$253,000 total. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, or student services) are approximately A$4,000, bringing the estimated total to A$257,000. These fees are set by UNSW and subject to change; always check the provider's website for current charges. Importantly, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (including accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. International students should budget additional costs for these items. For a student in Sydney, indicative weekly living expenses are around A$650–$850 (rent A$350–$600, groceries A$80–$120, transport A$30–$50). See the UNSW international student page for detailed fee information.
Admission to a doctoral program typically requires a master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8 or equivalent) in a relevant field, along with demonstrated research capability. English language competence is required — UNSW typically expects IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, some students may complete a research master's degree before applying. Always refer to UNSW's official website for precise entry requirements, as they may vary by discipline and are subject to change.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a doctoral candidate, you may have opportunities for teaching assistantships or research stipends that are not part of the CRICOS course structure.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb of Sydney, Australia's largest city, with a large international student population (over 200,000). Sydney offers excellent public transport, including buses and light rail to the campus. The cost of living is relatively high, but the city provides diverse cultural experiences and strong industry connections, particularly in engineering and technology sectors.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. The visa permits work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, dependents if applicable), and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for current requirements.
<p><strong>Step 1:</strong> Research CRICOS-registered providers — filter by course level, field, and city. Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare PhD programs in Electrical Engineering across Australia.</p><p><strong>Step 2:</strong> Apply directly to your chosen institution — UNSW's Online Application system. Check entry requirements (including English test scores) and application deadlines. Prepare a research proposal and contact potential supervisors.</p><p><strong>Step 3:</strong> Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once UNSW issues your CoE, submit a visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Note that processing times vary.</p>
Sydney is home to several top-ranked universities and a thriving tech industry. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, UNSW is a research-intensive university known for engineering. Consider the cost of living: indicative weekly rent in Sydney is A$350–600 for a room, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$30–50. Student discounts and scholarships are available. The city offers a vibrant international student community and access to global networks. For electrical engineering research, Sydney's focus on renewable energy, telecommunications, and defence provides collaborative opportunities.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Electrical Engineering 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.