Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture and environmental studies, dentistry, engineering, human movement, medical studies, natural and physical sciences, pharmacy, psychology, veterinary science) (CRICOS course code 0100214) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Queensland over 4 years. This PhD is designed for international students seeking to undertake advanced research in a wide range of scientific and health disciplines at one of Australia's leading universities. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00025B), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. The University of Queensland, consistently ranked among the world's top 50 universities, offers state-of-the-art research facilities across its three campuses in Queensland. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections that apply to all CRICOS-registered courses. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. This page covers indicative fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and visa guidance to help you make an informed decision.
This Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-intensive Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by The University of Queensland. The course covers a broad range of fields including agriculture and environmental studies, dentistry, engineering, human movement, medical studies, natural and physical sciences, pharmacy, psychology, and veterinary science. Students undertake original research under the supervision of leading academics, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. The program is designed for those who wish to pursue careers in academia, research, or high-level professional roles. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is open to international students and complies with the ESOS Act. The University of Queensland is a Government-owned institution with a strong reputation for research excellence. Studying this PhD at UQ provides access to world-class laboratories, libraries, and collaborative networks across its Gatton, Herston, and St Lucia campuses.
The field of education for this course is Mixed Field Programmes (code 129999), which indicates it encompasses multiple discipline areas rather than a single specialisation. Graduates at the Doctoral Degree level are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial body of knowledge, with the ability to conceptualise, design, and implement research that generates new knowledge. While specific thesis topics vary, PhD candidates typically engage in advanced coursework in research methods, literature review, experimental design, data analysis, and ethics. The program fosters skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent inquiry. Students are expected to produce a thesis of publishable quality. Given the breadth of fields covered — from agriculture to veterinary science — the research focus will align with the candidate's chosen area of interest. The University of Queensland offers expert supervision and access to discipline-specific resources.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). It is offered on a full-time basis, and the language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The 4-year duration is typical for a PhD in Australia, though actual completion time may vary depending on research progress. The course is not a VET program, so no VET national code applies. It is classified as a Doctoral Degree under AQF Level 10.
Indicative tuition fees for this course are A$187,520 for the full program (4 years). Non-tuition fees, including materials and services, are estimated at A$1,248, bringing the estimated total to A$188,768. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by The University of Queensland. Important: The estimated total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. International students should budget for additional expenses: OSHC (approximately A$500–700 per year for single cover), living costs (the Department of Home Affairs suggests at least A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Always check the provider's website for the most current fees: www.uq.edu.au.
International students applying to this PhD must meet The University of Queensland's academic and English language requirements. Generally, applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree (or equivalent) in a related field. The indicative English requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0, depending on the specific research area. Other English tests like TOEFL or PTE may also be accepted. Some fields may require higher scores. Additionally, applicants must secure an academic supervisor at UQ who agrees to supervise their research project. For those who do not meet the direct entry requirements, pathway options such as a Graduate Diploma or a master's program may be available — check with UQ. It is essential to confirm the latest entry requirements directly with The University of Queensland, as these can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Unlike some vocational or professional programs, a PhD is primarily research-focused and does not require internships or practicum placements as part of the curriculum. However, students may choose to undertake teaching or research assistant roles within the university, which can provide valuable experience and income. These opportunities are not guaranteed and are separate from the course requirements.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered across three campuses of The University of Queensland: Gatton Campus (located in Gatton, QLD, approximately 90 km west of Brisbane), Herston Campus (in Herston, a suburb of Brisbane, near the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital), and St Lucia Campus (the main campus, situated in St Lucia, a riverside suburb of Brisbane). Each campus offers specialised facilities: Gatton focuses on agriculture and veterinary science, Herston on medical and health research, and St Lucia on a broad range of disciplines including engineering, sciences, and humanities. Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent A$200–350 and a transport connection via buses, trains, and ferries. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Students can choose their primary location based on their research area and supervisor.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The course's duration of 4 years qualifies students for a visa length typically aligned with the course plus additional time for completion. After graduation, PhD graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) with extended post-study work rights. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa applications, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy is a significant commitment requiring intellectual curiosity, perseverance, and a passion for research. The fields covered — from agriculture to veterinary science — are diverse, so it's important to align your research interests with available supervisors and facilities at UQ. Consider the location: Brisbane is a vibrant, multicultural city with a warm climate and a strong research ecosystem. Living costs are moderate compared to other Australian capitals. UQ's St Lucia campus is particularly well-connected by bus and ferry. Additionally, Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you have options. However, for a research-intensive PhD, UQ's reputation and resources are a strong draw. Ensure you understand the ESOS Act protections that safeguard your rights as an international student. Ultimately, discuss your plans with UQ's graduate school and potential supervisors before applying.
Ready to start your application? Use our step‑by‑step guide to apply for this course via the How to Apply section above.
Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture and environmental studies, dentistry, engineering, human movement, medical studies, natural and physical sciences, pharmacy, psychology, veterinary science) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Queensland. 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.