Doctor of Philosophy (Business) (CRICOS course code 033922G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years 6 months (~182 weeks). This AQF Level 10 program is designed for individuals seeking to make a significant original contribution to the field of Business and Management. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) is a government-owned institution with campuses in Victoria and Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered provider, they are authorised to enrol international students, and their courses are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you aim to pursue an academic career or lead in the corporate sector, this PhD provides rigorous research training. Below, we cover fees, locations, entry requirements, and visa steps to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy (Business) (CRICOS course code 033922G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years 6 months (~182 weeks). The field of education is 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0803 - Business and Management (n.f.d.). This research-intensive program requires candidates to complete a substantial thesis that demonstrates independent critical thinking and contributes new knowledge to the business discipline. International students benefit from Australia's strong research environment and the support of Federation University's experienced supervisors. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, student visa holders under Subclass 500 must maintain full-time enrolment and comply with attendance requirements. The course is offered at multiple campuses: Ballarat, Berwick, Brisbane, and Gippsland, giving you flexibility in choosing your study location.
While specific syllabi are determined by Federation University, a doctoral degree in Business and Management typically involves advanced research methodology training, literature review, data collection and analysis, and thesis writing. Graduates develop expertise in areas such as organisational behaviour, strategic management, marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship, depending on their research focus. The program emphasises critical analysis, ethical research practices, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. By the end of the degree, you will have produced an original thesis that passes external examination. This qualification prepares you for careers in academia, consulting, corporate leadership, or government policy. HeadStart Academy notes that this level of study requires significant self-direction and commitment to independent research.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 3 years 6 months (182 weeks). This is a single qualification only (no dual awards) and is not a foundation studies program. The course is full-time, conducted in English. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment load to comply with their student visa conditions. Federation University may offer research periods that align with academic semesters, but the overall duration is fixed on CRICOS. No work component is included in this course, meaning there is no mandatory internship or placement. However, student visa holders can undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term) to supplement their experience. Always confirm the exact start dates and study mode with the provider before applying.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at Federation University Australia is A$88,500. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$455, bringing the estimated total to A$88,955. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting Federation University's official website (www.federation.edu.au) for the most current fee information, as fees are subject to change. Living costs in Australia vary by city; for example, weekly rent in Ballarat averages A$250–400, while Brisbane may be A$300–500. Budget for groceries (A$80–150/week) and public transport (A$30–60/week). These are indicative only; use the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity requirements as a guide.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. For a Doctoral Degree, prior qualifications such as a master's degree (or Honours) in a relevant field are expected. Federation University Australia will assess your research proposal and academic background. Some candidates may be admitted with a bachelor's degree with strong research components. If you do not meet the entry criteria, pathway options (e.g., a pre-master's or postgraduate diploma) may be available – check with the provider. HeadStart Academy advises that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the university makes the final decision. Always confirm the latest entry requirements directly with Federation University Australia.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) is a research degree focused entirely on thesis production. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any employment must not interfere with your study progress. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to support services. For visa-specific work conditions, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
Federation University Australia delivers Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at four campuses: Ballarat (VIC), Berwick (VIC), Brisbane (QLD), and Gippsland (Churchill, VIC). Ballarat is a regional city with a lower cost of living than Melbourne, home to multiple CRICOS providers. Berwick is in Melbourne's south-east growth corridor, with good public transport connections to the city. Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland, has a large international student community and numerous research institutions. Gippsland (Churchill) offers a regional experience within 2 hours of Melbourne. Each campus provides access to libraries, research facilities, and supervisor networks. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, living costs, and proximity to industry. HeadStart Academy's data shows that Victoria hosts 457 CRICOS providers, while Queensland has 255, offering diverse study environments.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student) and OSHC (around A$600–800/year for a single person), and English language proficiency. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and meet attendance/performance standards. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refund rights if your provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes; always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA-registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at Federation University Australia: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter by doctoral level, business field, and your preferred city. Compare providers like Federation University with others to find the best fit. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Federation University's website (www.federation.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English proficiency evidence through their online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and evidence of financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends starting the visa process at least 3 months before your course starts.
Ready to start your Doctor of Philosophy (Business) journey? Use HeadStart Academy's free search to explore more CRICOS-registered courses and compare options across Australia. Visit headstartacademy.com.au today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Business) 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.