Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture) (Agricultural Economics, Plant & Soil Sciences) — CRICOS 024816F

Course overview

Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture) (Agricultural Economics, Plant & Soil Sciences) (CRICOS course code 024816F) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 4 years (208 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 050101 - Agricultural Science, which encompasses the study of agricultural systems, plant and animal production, soil management, and agricultural economics. As a PhD candidate, you will undertake independent research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. UWA's Faculty of Science offers state-of-the-art facilities including the Centre for Crop and Disease Management and the UWA Institute of Agriculture. The program is taught entirely in English and does not include a work component. It is a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies options. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets rigorous Australian quality standards, and international students are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — no referral fees, just accurate data from the CRICOS register.

What you'll study

This PhD program equips graduates with advanced research skills and deep expertise in agricultural science. Students typically engage in literature review, experimental design, data collection (e.g., field trials, economic modelling, soil analysis), and academic writing. The focus areas include: agricultural economics (e.g., farm management, policy, market analysis), plant sciences (e.g., crop physiology, genetics, breeding), and soil sciences (e.g., soil fertility, conservation, microbiology). Graduates emerge capable of critically evaluating complex problems, designing and executing research projects, and communicating findings to scientific and industry audiences. This training prepares you for careers in research institutions, universities, agribusiness, government agencies, and international development organisations. While specific course content is set by UWA, the AQF Level 10 learning outcomes ensure attainment of systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of the discipline. CRICOS registration guarantees that the course meets Australian education standards.

Duration and study mode

The Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research program. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification — no dual award or combined degree. There is no foundation studies component; students must meet entry requirements to be admitted. The program does not include a mandatory work component, but students may undertake casual work within student visa limits (see Student visa section). Study is conducted primarily at UWA's Crawley campus in Perth, with access to field stations and laboratories across Western Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, the duration is set by the provider and may be extended under certain circumstances (e.g., part-time study for compassionate reasons, subject to visa conditions). Always confirm current duration options with UWA directly.

Fees (indicative — set by The University of Western Australia (UWA))

Tuition fees for this course are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition cost is A$210,400 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,492, covering items such as student services and amenities fees, laboratory levies, and library access. The estimated total cost is A$211,892. Note: These figures do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$600–$1,000 per year), living costs (A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs indicative figure), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Perth's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with median weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–$450. According to official sources, groceries and transport add approximately A$80–$120 per week. Always check UWA's official website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are subject to annual review. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and we never charge referral fees.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

Admission to this PhD program requires a strong academic background. Typical entry requirements include: completion of a bachelor's degree with honours (at least AQF Level 8) in a relevant field such as agriculture, biology, environmental science, or economics; or a master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component. A minimum GPA or equivalent is expected. International students must demonstrate English proficiency — the indicative band is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English). Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal, provide academic references, or attend an interview. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this level; however, UWA may offer qualifying programs if needed. For specific entry criteria, contact UWA's admissions office or visit their website. Remember: HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only. Meeting published requirements does not guarantee a visa — consult a registered MARA agent or Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research degree with no professional placement or internship requirement. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work can help offset living costs while gaining valuable experience. Remember, your primary purpose is to study; work must not interfere with your course progression. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as a student. For up-to-date work condition details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at The University of Western Australia (UWA) — Crawley, WA. Crawley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 2,600 courses. The city's student population exceeds 150,000. UWA's main campus is located near the Swan River, approximately 5 km from the Perth CBD, and is easily accessible by public transport (bus and train). The campus boasts modern lecture theatres, research facilities, the Reid Library, and student accommodation. Western Australia offers a unique lifestyle with a Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and a strong economy driven by mining, agriculture, and services. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, but still significant — budget accordingly. HeadStart Academy's /states/wa page provides more details on studying in WA.

Student visa

International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (4 years) plus any additional time for post-study work opportunities. Conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and attendance. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session (term) and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa period. The student visa application fee is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). After graduation, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) — see our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page for details. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.

How to apply

Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy (Agriculture) at The University of Western Australia (UWA) involves three simple steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy's search tools to filter by course level, field, and location. Ensure the course (CRICOS 024816F) meets your academic goals. 2) Apply directly to UWA — prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), research proposal, and any required references. Check UWA's website for application deadlines (typically two intake periods per year). Submit your application through UWA's online portal. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once UWA offers you a place, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements. For detailed guidance, visit our /institutions/00126G/the-university-of-western-australia-uwa page.

Is Western Australia right for you?

Western Australia offers a blend of world-class education, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. Perth has a vibrant multicultural student community with affordable living compared to eastern states. The state's economy is strong, particularly in agriculture, mining, and resources, providing potential research collaborations and job prospects. However, consider that WA is geographically isolated — flying to other Australian cities can be expensive. Climate is warm and sunny for most of the year, which appeals to those who enjoy outdoor activities. The University of Western Australia consistently ranks among the top 100 globally, especially in agriculture. If you value research facilities, industry connections, and a supportive academic environment, WA could be the perfect fit. HeadStart Academy's /states/wa page offers more insights.

Begin your research journey with HeadStart Academy — compare CRICOS-registered courses and find your perfect PhD program in agriculture.

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