Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 027433G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This program is designed for registered nurses and healthcare professionals seeking to advance nursing science through original research. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, clinical practice, and health policy. The University of Newcastle is a CRICOS-registered provider (00109J) offering this course at its Callaghan and Central Coast campuses. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and more than 26,000 courses available to international students, Australia is a top destination for doctoral study. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 027433G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This program is classified under the field of General Nursing (060301) within Health (06). It is a research-intensive degree where candidates produce a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge to nursing practice, theory, or education. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it represents the highest level of academic achievement in Australia. The course is available to international students, and all CRICOS-registered providers like UoN must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. New South Wales is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study environments. Students based at the Callaghan or Ourimbah campuses benefit from Newcastle's vibrant student community and proximity to Sydney.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) focuses on advanced research methodology, critical analysis, and independent inquiry within nursing science. Candidates work closely with a supervisory panel to design and conduct original research that addresses contemporary issues in nursing, such as chronic disease management, aged care, mental health, or health service delivery. While the specific syllabus depends on the research topic, graduates typically develop skills in systematic literature review, quantitative and qualitative research design, data analysis, and scholarly writing. This training prepares them for careers in academic research, clinical leadership, health policy, and education. The University of Newcastle has strong research centres in health and medicine, providing a rich environment for doctoral candidates.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) is structured over a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Study mode is typically full-time, as is standard for doctoral research degrees in Australia. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The University of Newcastle offers a supportive research environment with access to laboratories, libraries, and supervisor expertise. Students are expected to devote significant time to independent research, with periodic reviews and milestone submissions.
Course fees shown are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For the Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing), the indicative tuition fee is A$166,212 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,608, bringing the total to A$167,820. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For the most current fees, always confirm directly with The University of Newcastle (UoN) via their official website: www.newcastle.edu.au. Living costs in Newcastle are lower than Sydney; indicative weekly rent is around A$200–300, groceries A$100–150, and public transport A$40–50. Use the Department of Home Affairs’ financial capacity guidelines when preparing your budget.
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (Class 1 or 2A) or a master's degree with a research component. English language proficiency is essential; the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Entry requirements are set by The University of Newcastle (UoN) and may include a research proposal, supervisory endorsement, and interview. Applicants without a research background may consider pathway programs or refer to the provider for foundation options. Always check the exact requirements on UoN's website. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, PhD candidates often engage in teaching or research assistant roles informally. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is not a required part of the curriculum but can provide valuable experience and income.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) is delivered at two locations: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) in OURIMBAH, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus, located in Newcastle's western suburbs, about 15 km from the city centre. Ourimbah campus is on the Central Coast, approximately 80 km south of Newcastle. Both locations offer access to research facilities, libraries, and student services. Newcastle is a regional city with a population of over 500,000 and a large student community, including many international students. Public transport connects both campuses to surrounding areas. New South Wales boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and valid OSHC health cover. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating genuine intent to stay temporarily for study. Proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student), and OSHC is required. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including access to complaints processes.
Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) at The University of Newcastle (UoN) involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's tools to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Nursing), and location (New South Wales) to confirm your options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, arrange references, meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UoN issues the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
New South Wales (NSW) is a leading state for nursing research, with multiple universities offering doctoral programs. Sydney and Newcastle are major hubs with strong healthcare networks. Newcastle offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, with weekly rent around A$200–300 and public transport costs A$40–50. The city has a growing student population and easy access to beaches and national parks. The University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus is about 20 minutes from the city centre by bus. When choosing where to study, consider your research interests, supervisor availability, and lifestyle preferences. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you have many options. Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Research CRICOS-registered providers and apply today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.