Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 016704C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 4 years. This program is designed for international students seeking to advance knowledge in the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (Field of Education 019999 – Natural and Physical Sciences, n.e.c.). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00113B), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Deakin University is a public institution with multiple campuses across Victoria and New South Wales, offering world-class research facilities and supervision. Whether your interest lies in environmental science, physics, chemistry, or interdisciplinary research, this PhD provides the structure and support to complete a significant original contribution to your field.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest AQF level (Level 10) research degree. Students undertake independent research under the guidance of a supervisory panel, culminating in a thesis of up to 100,000 words that makes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge. The field of Natural and Physical Sciences encompasses a broad range of disciplines including but not limited to biology, chemistry, earth sciences, physics, and environmental science. As a doctoral candidate, you will develop advanced skills in research design, data analysis, critical thinking, and scholarly communication. You will also engage with the academic community through seminars, conferences, and publications. The specific research topic is negotiated with your supervisor and must align with the expertise available at Deakin. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, research institutes, government, and industry, often taking on leadership roles requiring deep analytical and problem-solving abilities.
This course is registered on CRICOS as a 4-year program, equivalent to 208 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Deakin University offers this PhD in a research mode only, meaning students are expected to be on campus for supervision sessions, laboratory work, and access to library and computing resources. However, some fieldwork or off-campus research may be permitted depending on the project. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their student visa. The 4-year duration is an indicative timeframe; actual completion can vary based on research progress and individual circumstances.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy is A$192,944 for the entire program (4 years). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no mandatory additional costs beyond tuition are included in this figure. Therefore, the estimated total is A$192,944. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For reference, the Department of Home Affairs recommends a living cost of at least A$21,041 per year for a single student. OSHC costs vary by provider but typically range from A$500 to A$700 per year for single cover. Always confirm current fees directly with Deakin University, as tuition is subject to annual review and may increase. Visit the provider's website at www.deakin.edu.au for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy typically requires a Master's degree with a significant research component or an Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class) in a relevant field. Deakin University assesses each application individually. English language proficiency is required: an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.0 to 6.5 depending on the discipline). Other equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. There are no foundation studies attached to this course. If you do not meet the academic requirements, consider a pathway program such as a Master by Research or Graduate Diploma offered by the same provider or another CRICOS-registered institution. Always check the specific entry requirements on Deakin's website, as they may vary by research area.
This course has no mandatory work component. There is no placement, internship, or work experience requirement built into the program. However, PhD candidates often engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university, which can provide valuable experience and income. 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 holidays, subject to maintaining good academic progress. Any work must not interfere with your studies. For the most current work rights information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Doctor of Philosophy is offered at four campuses of Deakin University: 1) Centre for Regional and Rural Futures (Deakin University) – Hanwood, NSW (a regional campus in the Riverina area). 2) Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus – Geelong, VIC (a major regional city 75 km from Melbourne). 3) Deakin University, Melbourne Burwood Campus – Burwood, VIC (outer eastern Melbourne). 4) Deakin University, Warrnambool Campus – Warrnambool, VIC (south-west coast). Each location provides access to research facilities and supervision relevant to natural and physical sciences. The Geelong and Burwood campuses are larger, with more extensive labs and libraries. Hanwood focuses on rural and regional research. Warrnambool offers a coastal environment. When choosing a location, consider living costs: Melbourne is more expensive (weekly rent ~A$300-500 for a share house) compared to regional areas (~A$200-350). All campuses are accessible by public transport, with varying levels of frequency. Deakin University is a CRICOS-registered provider with a strong track record in research degrees.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500) for the duration of your program. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Deakin University, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period, and proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living costs + travel). As a doctoral student, you may also bring family members (dependents) on a Student Dependent visa (Subclass 500). They have work rights up to 48 hours per fortnight. Post-study, PhD graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) with a longer stay period (up to 4 years for PhD). Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For personalised visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's resources to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location. Ensure Deakin University (CRICOS 00113B) is your preferred choice. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit Deakin's website (www.deakin.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and supervisor availability. Prepare research proposal and academic transcripts. Submit an online application through the university's portal. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, Deakin will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via ImmiAccount. Pay the visa application charge, arrange OSHC, and attend a biometrics appointment if required. Begin your journey towards a world-class PhD in Australia.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore Deakin University's research areas and apply through their official website.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Deakin University (Deakin). 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.