Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) (CRICOS course code 008978K) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for international students seeking to conduct advanced research in physics under expert supervision, with access to world-class facilities at the Kensington campus in Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered course at one of Australia’s leading universities, it opens doors to careers in academia, research, and industry. The indicative tuition fee is A$253,000, with additional non-tuition costs of A$4,000 (fees are indicative and subject to change). Australia offers over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,556 providers, and this page provides a comprehensive guide to course content, entry requirements, visa pathways, and application steps for prospective international students. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) (CRICOS 008978K) is a research-intensive doctoral degree at AQF Level 10, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (CRICOS 00098G). This program typically involves independent research leading to a thesis that makes a substantial contribution to the field of physics. Students work closely with a supervisory panel and may engage in experimental, theoretical, or computational research. UNSW is a public university (government-owned) and consistently ranks among the top universities globally. The course is delivered over 208 weeks (4 years) full-time, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The main delivery location is the Kensington campus in Sydney, New South Wales.
This doctoral program falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (Broad Field 01), specifically Physics and Astronomy (Narrow Field 0103) and Physics (Detailed Field 010301). At AQF Level 10, graduates are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of their discipline. They develop the ability to conceive, design, and execute research that generates new knowledge, and to communicate that knowledge effectively. While specific research topics vary by supervisor, typical areas include quantum physics, astrophysics, condensed matter, photonics, and theoretical physics. Students also gain transferable skills in project management, data analysis, and scientific writing. Note: HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; consult UNSW for precise curriculum details.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) is a 4-year full-time program, equivalent to 208 weeks of study as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification and does not include a dual award or integrated foundation studies. Part-time study may be available in some circumstances, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The course is structured around supervised research, with no compulsory coursework components (though some departments may require seminars or teaching duties). Students typically spend the majority of their time on independent research, culminating in a written thesis and oral examination.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) is A$253,000 for the full 4-year duration. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$4,000. The estimated total cost is A$257,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by UNSW. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, visit the UNSW website. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approx. A$600–1,000/year), living expenses (approx. A$25,000–35,000/year depending on lifestyle), and the student visa application fee (currently A$710, subject to change).
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) typically requires a master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component or a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) in a relevant field such as physics, applied mathematics, or engineering. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, usually through an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0–6.5, depending on the program). Other accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive and subject to supervisor availability. UNSW may also consider prior research output, publications, or relevant work experience. There are no foundation/pathway options specifically for this doctoral program; applicants who do not meet academic prerequisites should contact the university for advice. HeadStart Academy does not determine entry; always verify with UNSW.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, doctoral students often have the opportunity to engage in teaching assistantships, research internships, or industry projects as part of their candidature, but these are not formally required. International students may undertake casual or part-time work outside study hours, subject to their visa conditions (see Student Visa section below).
The Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) is delivered at The University of New South Wales – Kensington campus, located in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, New South Wales. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, home to over 5 million people and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The Kensington campus is well connected by public transport, including buses and light rail, and is close to the city centre. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$300–500, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. Students should budget accordingly. The campus offers state-of-the-art research facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and valid English test scores. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights (restrictions apply). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa; it can be arranged through the provider or purchased independently. After completing the doctorate, graduates may be eligible for post-study work visas (Subclass 485) or employer-sponsored visas. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Physics), and location (NSW) on HeadStart Academy to shortlist programs. 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Check entry requirements, prepare academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Deadlines vary – UNSW generally has rolling intakes but recommend applying at least 6 months before start. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues a CoE, lodge a visa application online, including biometrics, health checks, and evidence of funds. For detailed guidance, visit the official UNSW international student page.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) 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.