Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 018831B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is ideal for international students seeking to conduct original research in their chosen field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00113B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy's data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, Deakin University stands out as a government-funded institution with campuses in Victoria.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest level of academic qualification in Australia, classified as AQF Level 10. Deakin University offers this course across three Victorian campuses: Geelong Waterfront, Melbourne Burwood, and Warrnambool. The program spans 208 weeks (4 years) of full-time study, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual awards or work-integrated learning components. As a research doctorate, students are expected to contribute new knowledge to their field under expert supervision. The field of education is Psychology (090701), part of the Society and Culture broad field (09). However, the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin is not limited to psychology; it covers any approved research area. CRICOS registration (018831B) guarantees that all international students enrolled are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and access to complaint processes.
While specific thesis topics are determined by the candidate and their supervisory team, a Doctor of Philosophy typically involves advanced research training, literature review, data collection and analysis, and the production of a substantial thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. Graduates develop expert-level skills in critical thinking, independent research, project management, and academic writing. The program may include coursework components such as research methods or ethics, but the primary focus is the original research project. Because this particular CRICOS record is classified under Behavioural Science (0907) and Psychology (090701), students might engage with psychological theories, experimental design, or clinical research, but the actual research area depends on the candidate's proposal and supervisor match. Deakin University has strong research centres in mental health, cognitive neuroscience, and social psychology, offering rich opportunities for PhD candidates.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin University has a duration of 208 weeks (4 years). This is the standard duration for a full-time doctoral program in Australia. The course is delivered in English, and there is no part-time option for international student visa holders under standard conditions. It is a single qualification – not a dual award or combined degree. Importantly, there is no work component embedded in the course; students are not required to undertake mandatory work placements. However, PhD candidates often engage in teaching or research assistant roles separately. The study mode is on-campus at one of Deakin's three locations, though some research can be conducted off-site with approval. Students must maintain satisfactory progress to extend their visa for the full duration.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire Doctor of Philosophy program is A$196,336, as listed on the CRICOS register. This amount is for the full 4-year period and does not include non-tuition fees (A$0 listed). The estimated total cost is therefore A$196,336. However, please note that these fees are indicative only, set by Deakin University and subject to annual review. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). OSHC costs approximately A$600–A$1,500 per year for single cover, depending on the provider. Living expenses are additional: in Victoria, the Department of Home Affairs estimates living costs at A$29,710 per year for a single student (as of 2025). Rent in Geelong or Warrnambool is generally lower than in Melbourne – for example, weekly rent for a shared house in Geelong averages A$180–A$250, while Melbourne may range A$250–A$400. Groceries and public transport also add to the budget. The student visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (as of July 2025). Always confirm current fees directly with Deakin University at deakin.edu.au before applying.
Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy typically requires a minimum of a four-year honours degree (or equivalent) with a research component, or a master's degree with a substantial research element. Deakin University sets specific entry criteria for each PhD project. For English proficiency, the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band less than 6.5 or 7.0 depending on the faculty. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Student visa. If you do not meet the direct entry criteria, Deakin may offer pathway programs such as a Graduate Diploma or Master's (Research) that can lead into the PhD. However, no foundation studies are attached to this specific CRICOS course. Always consult the provider's website for precise requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility – we recommend contacting Deakin University directly.
This course has no mandatory work component. The CRICOS record explicitly states 'No work component'. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are still permitted to work part-time: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled university holidays. However, PhD students often have flexible schedules and may work as casual tutors or research assistants within Deakin, which can complement their studies. It's important to balance work with study to maintain satisfactory visa conditions. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as a student, but work rights are regulated by the Department of Home Affairs.
Deakin University delivers the Doctor of Philosophy at three campuses in Victoria: - Geelong Waterfront Campus, GEELONG VIC (regional city, about 75 km southwest of Melbourne) - Melbourne Burwood Campus, BURWOOD VIC (suburban Melbourne, approximately 15 km from the CBD) - Warrnambool Campus, WARRNAMBOOL VIC (regional city in western Victoria, about 260 km from Melbourne) Geelong and Warrnambool are regional centres with lower living costs compared to Melbourne. Geelong has a student population of over 40,000 across two universities, good public transport via V/Line trains, and a vibrant waterfront. Warrnambool is smaller but offers a close-knit community and path to permanent residency through regional study benefits. Melbourne Burwood is in a diverse suburb with easy access to the city train network. Deakin University is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers nationally – choosing a campus depends on your research direction and lifestyle preference.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Deakin University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. The ESOS Act provides tuition protection if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Society and Culture), and city. Deakin University (CRICOS 00113B) offers this PhD with multiple campus options. Review their research strengths and supervisor availability. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and referee reports. Submit through Deakin's online application portal. Note application deadlines – typically several months before start date. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once admitted, Deakin issues a CoE. Then lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount, including OSHC evidence and financial documents. Allow 4–8 weeks for processing.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Browse more doctoral courses on HeadStart Academy, or visit Deakin University's website for application details.
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.