Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) (CRICOS course code 0100698) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. This program offers international students the opportunity to conduct high-level research in a mixed field area, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or industry. La Trobe is a public university with multiple campuses across Victoria, including metropolitan Melbourne and regional centres. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M), La Trobe ensures international students receive ESOS Act protections. The indicative tuition fee is A$180,000, with no separate non-tuition fees, though living costs and OSHC are additional. Entry requires IELTS 6.5-7.0 and prior research experience. Prospective students should consult the official CRICOS register for the most up-to-date course details.
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Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) (CRICOS course code 0100698) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. It falls under the field of Mixed Field Programmes (broad field 12) and specifically Other Mixed Field Programmes n.e.c. (129999). This means graduates develop advanced research skills applicable across multiple disciplines rather than a single specialised field. La Trobe is a government-owned university with a strong research focus, and as a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The CRICOS register, managed by TEQSA, ensures all listed courses comply with ESOS Act protections, giving students legal rights to refunds and support. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, this PhD program represents a significant investment in academic research training.
As a doctoral research degree, Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) requires students to undertake a substantial, original research project under the supervision of expert academics. The 'Mixed Field Programmes' classification indicates the research may span multiple disciplines, though the specific topic is determined by the candidate and supervisor. Graduates typically demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, analyse complex data, produce scholarly publications, and contribute new knowledge to their field. While the exact syllabus varies, students can expect to complete a thesis of 80,000-100,000 words, attend research training workshops, and present findings at seminars. It is important to note that no specific course units are prescribed by the CRICOS register; for detailed curriculum, prospective students should contact La Trobe directly.
The Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a full-time program with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks according to the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). As a doctoral level course, it does not involve a VET component. The full-time load is typically 40 hours per week of research and study. Part-time options may be available but require visa approvals; the student visa (Subclass 500) generally requires full-time enrolment for doctoral degrees. International students should plan for a minimum 4-year commitment in Australia, including during scheduled breaks.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$180,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$180,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They are set by La Trobe University, and students must confirm current fees directly with the institution at their international website (http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international). Importantly, the A$180,000 does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory and costs approximately A$500-700 per year for singles, nor does it cover living expenses or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Indicative living costs range from A$20,000-30,000 per year, depending on location. For example, living in Melbourne is more expensive than in regional campuses like Bendigo or Mildura. Students must demonstrate sufficient funds for the entire study period to obtain a student visa.
General entry requirements for Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) include an overall IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 (with no band below 6.0, though specific bands may vary). Academically, applicants typically need a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) or equivalent research experience, such as an Honours degree with a substantial research component. Some disciplines may require a higher qualification. La Trobe may also consider relevant professional experience. There are no foundation or pathway options for this level, but students with lower qualifications may consider a Masters by Research first. Always refer to La Trobe's official requirements, as they can change. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa-specific advice.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. These work rights apply to all doctoral students enrolled in CRICOS-registered courses. It is important to balance work with study commitments, as the PhD requires significant research hours. Additionally, graduates may be eligible for post-study work visas (Subclass 485) depending on their qualifications and location.
The Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is delivered at five La Trobe campuses across Victoria: Albury-Wodonga Campus (Wodonga), Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill), Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (Bundoora), Mildura Campus (Mildura), and Shepparton Campus (Shepparton). Each campus offers unique advantages: Bundoora is a large metropolitan campus with excellent transport links to Melbourne's CBD (train and bus), while the regional campuses provide a lower cost of living (indicative weekly rent: Melbourne ~$250-400, regional ~$150-250) and a quieter study environment. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, and La Trobe's multiple locations allow students to choose a setting that suits their research and lifestyle needs. Students should consider proximity to libraries, laboratories, and supervision at specific sites.
To study Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions include: maintaining satisfactory course progress, attending at least 80% of classes (if applicable), and holding OSHC for the duration of stay. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be met, demonstrating that your primary purpose is study. Financial capacity is also assessed: you must show funds for tuition, living costs (A$24,505 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice. ESOS protections apply, including the Tuition Protection Service.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register to verify that La Trobe University (CRICOS 00115M) offers this course (CRICOS 0100698) at your preferred campus. Filter by doctoral level and mixed field programs. Step 2: Apply directly to La Trobe University – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0), research proposal, CV, and letters of recommendation. Submit your application via La Trobe's online system or through an authorised agent. Be mindful of application deadlines, which can be up to 6 months before start date. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) through ImmiAccount. Include your OSHC policy, evidence of financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times for doctoral programs are typically 4-8 weeks.
Ready to begin your doctoral journey? Explore Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) on the CRICOS register and contact La Trobe University for the latest entry requirements and fees.
Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.