Doctor of Philosophy (Education) (CRICOS course code 016654G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years 6 months (~182 weeks). This research-intensive program allows international students to contribute original knowledge to the field of Education Studies, classified under AQF Level 10. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00103D), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Federation University Australia, a government-owned institution, offers this doctorate across three Victorian campuses—Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland—providing diverse settings for advanced research. The indicative tuition fee is A$88,500, with non-tuition fees of A$455, totalling A$88,955. International students must meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5–7.0) and hold a relevant master's degree or equivalent. This page provides a detailed overview of the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and student visa pathways, helping you make an informed decision about studying Education at the doctoral level in Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy (Education) (CRICOS course code 016654G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years 6 months (~182 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 070303 - Education Studies, focusing on advanced research in curriculum, pedagogy, and educational theory. As a CRICOS-registered program at a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00103D), it ensures compliance with the ESOS Act, protecting international students' rights. The program is offered in English and requires full-time study. It does not include a work component, dual qualification, or foundation studies. Students will engage in independent research under supervision, culminating in a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. Federation University Australia is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering over 26,000 courses to international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Education) falls under the field of Education Studies (070303). At this doctoral level, students develop deep expertise in a specialised area of education, such as curriculum development, educational policy, teaching methodologies, or learning sciences. The program is research-focused: candidates design and conduct original research, analyse data, and produce a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. Typical learning outcomes include advanced critical analysis, research design and methodology, scholarly writing, and the ability to present findings at academic conferences. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and topic, graduates are prepared for careers in academia, educational leadership, policy-making, or research roles in government and non-government organisations. Federation University's faculty specialise in areas like inclusive education, vocational education, and regional education contexts.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Education) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 3 years 6 months (182 weeks). This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies or a work component. Students are expected to be enrolled continuously throughout the year, including scheduled breaks, as research activities often continue. The program is assessed via thesis submission and oral examination. Federation University offers flexibility in study location across its three Victorian campuses, and some components may be accessible off-campus in consultation with supervisors. However, international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Education) is A$88,500, as listed on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities) are A$455, bringing the estimated total to A$88,955. These fees are set by Federation University Australia and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For accurate and current fees, always check the provider’s website at www.federation.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only; confirm directly with the institution before applying. All CRICOS-registered providers must disclose fees upfront, ensuring transparency under the ESOS Act.
International applicants to Doctor of Philosophy (Education) typically need: an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.5); a master's degree in Education or a related field with a research component; or a bachelor's degree with honours (first or upper second class). Prior research experience or publications can strengthen an application. Federation University may also consider professional experience and a detailed research proposal. Some applicants may be offered pathway programs (e.g., a Graduate Diploma in Research) to meet entry standards. These are general guidelines—exact requirements vary by supervisor and project. Consult Federation University’s website or contact their admissions team for precise criteria. Note: HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend prospective students discuss their qualifications with the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as an internship, practicum, or work placement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled study breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while studying.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Education) is delivered at three Federation University Australia campuses in Victoria: Ballarat (main campus, offering a regional city experience with a large student population and affordable living costs), Berwick (a suburban Melbourne campus with access to the capital's amenities), and Gippsland (Churchill, a regional campus with a close-knit community). All campuses are CRICOS-registered locations. Victoria is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and numerous higher education institutions. Living costs in regional areas like Ballarat and Gippsland are lower than in Melbourne—indicative weekly rent A$150–250, while Berwick (outer Melbourne) may be A$200–350. Public transport connects these campuses to major cities: Ballarat is 90 minutes from Melbourne by train, and Gippsland is 2–3 hours. This diversity allows students to choose an environment that suits their research needs and lifestyle.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy (Education) will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment, attend classes, meet course progress, and hold OSHC for the duration. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also apply, but work rights vary. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied—demonstrating genuine intent to study in Australia. Financial capacity requirements include tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC (approx A$500–700 per year). For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Education Studies), and location (Victoria). HeadStart Academy offers free search tools to compare providers like Federation University Australia. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, and referee reports. Submit via Federation University's online application portal before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Federation issues your CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Processing times vary—apply early.
Victoria is Australia's second most popular study destination, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population of 400,000+. For a PhD in Education, Victoria offers strong research networks: universities collaborate with schools, government, and industry. Melbourne (ranked world's most liveable city) provides vibrant cultural life, while regional centres like Ballarat and Gippsland offer lower costs and close-knit communities. Living costs in Victoria vary: Melbourne's weekly rent A$250–450, regional areas A$150–250. Public transport is efficient, with student concessions available. Consider your research focus—some supervisors specialise in rural education at Gippsland, while urban education may suit Berwick. Also, factor in climate: Victoria has cool winters and warm summers. Choosing Victoria means access to top-tier education resources, but ensure you budget for living expenses beyond tuition.
Ready to start your doctoral journey in Education? Contact Federation University Australia for application advice, or explore more CRICOS-registered doctoral courses on HeadStart Academy.
Doctor of Philosophy (Education) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.