Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 048355K) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Australian National University over 4 years. This elite research degree is designed for candidates who wish to make a significant original contribution to legal scholarship. Delivered at ANU's Canberra campus, the program immerses students in Australia’s capital, home to the High Court and major legal institutions. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00120C), international students can study under Australia's ESOS Act protections. With an indicative tuition fee of A$221,530, this course represents a substantial investment in your academic future. HeadStart Academy provides this information sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have access to reliable data to plan your studies. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Canberra offers a unique study environment with access to national libraries, government departments, and legal bodies, enriching your research experience.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Law) falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Law (0909) and Law, n.f.d. (090900). At the doctoral level (AQF Level 10), students undertake original research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words that demonstrates a substantial and original contribution to knowledge. The broad field of Law, n.f.d. allows candidates to explore topics such as constitutional law, international law, human rights, legal theory, or comparative law without being restricted to a narrow specialisation. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government policy, or international organisations. The program develops advanced skills in critical analysis, independent research, academic writing, and scholarly communication. Students are expected to engage with the wider academic community through seminars, conferences, and publications. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets rigorous quality standards under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive a high-quality education.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual degree or foundation studies component. The course is not a VET program (N/A VET national code). Full-time enrolment is required, and students are expected to complete their thesis within the registered duration. Extensions may be possible under exceptional circumstances, but the CRICOS duration reflects the standard timeframe. Studying at this level demands a significant time commitment, with candidates typically dedicating 35-40 hours per week to research and writing.
The indicative fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026) are as follows:
These fees cover the full 208-week program but do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current and precise fee details, always check the official Australian National University website. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. International students should also budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single coverage), living costs (around A$21,000–A$27,000 per year in Canberra), and travel expenses.
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) typically requires: - English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0), or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) - A relevant master's degree (research) or honours degree (first class or upper second class) in law or a related discipline - A strong research proposal aligned with ANU's supervisory expertise - Prior research experience demonstrated through a thesis or publications
Foundation or pathway options: Candidates who do not meet direct entry may consider a master's by research or a graduate diploma as a stepping stone. However, this specific program does not include embedded foundation studies. Always refer to Australian National University for the most current entry requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component (e.g., internship, practicum, or placement). The program is purely research-based, with students focusing on their thesis project under supervision. However, many PhD candidates choose to engage in casual teaching or research assistance within the university, subject to visa conditions and departmental approval.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is delivered at: - Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT
Canberra is Australia's capital city with a population of over 450,000, including a large student community. The city hosts more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. Living costs in Canberra are slightly above the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is A$350–A$600, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60 (with student concessions available). The ACT government provides reliable bus and light rail services connecting suburbs to the city centre. ANU's campus is within walking distance to Parliament House, the High Court, and the National Library, offering unparalleled resources for law researchers.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Visa conditions include: - Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled course breaks (conditions apply) - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement: demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): must be held for the visa duration - Financial capacity: show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel
It's important to note that this course is registered on CRICOS, meaning it meets the requirements for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised visa advice.
Choosing where to study your doctorate is a major decision. Canberra offers a safe, well-planned city with a strong focus on education and research. As the national capital, it provides unique access to legal institutions, government archives, and policy think tanks — ideal for law researchers. The city has a relatively small but diverse international student population, with student support services widely available. Public transport is efficient, and the cost of living, while not cheap, is manageable with careful budgeting. If you value a quiet, intellectually stimulating environment with close connections to national decision-makers, Canberra could be the perfect place to pursue your PhD in Law.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at Australian National University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered courses in law at the doctoral level. Filter by location (ACT), field (Law), and level (Doctoral Degree) to confirm your choice.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the Australian National University website to review specific entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and references. Submit your application via the university's online portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs.
Ready to start your research journey? Follow the 'How to apply' steps above or explore more doctoral degrees in ACT on HeadStart Academy.
All Doctoral Degree courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. 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.