Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering (CRICOS course code 048379B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Australian National University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is in the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (01 - 0100 - 010000) and is designed for students seeking advanced research skills and knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring your qualification is recognised globally. HeadStart Academy provides this information to help you make an informed decision about studying in Australia. All data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, which lists 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states. Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, giving international students legal rights in Australia. Whether you're exploring PhD options or researching ANU, this page outlines fees, entry requirements, and application steps.
Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering (CRICOS 048379B) is a full-time Doctoral Degree delivered by Australian National University (ANU), a government-funded institution. This course is registered under CRICOS provider code 00120C and is classified under AQF Level 10, the highest level of tertiary education in Australia. The field of education is Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01), which encompasses physics, engineering physics, and related disciplines. The course is designed to develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and original contributions to knowledge. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, research institutions, and industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures academic quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare CRICOS-registered courses and providers. We do not charge referral fees — our mission is to connect you with trusted, government-regulated education options. Always verify registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au before applying.
As a Doctoral Degree in Natural and Physical Sciences, you will undertake original research under the supervision of experienced academics. The program typically involves coursework in research methodologies, a literature review, and a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge to your field. In the Research School of Physics and Engineering, you may explore areas such as quantum physics, photonics, materials science, or engineering physics. The degree emphasises independent inquiry, problem-solving, and communication of research findings. While the specific syllabus is set by ANU, doctoral studies at this level require you to demonstrate mastery of your subject and produce work of publishable quality. The CRICOS register confirms this course is full-time and research-intensive, with no mandatory work component. For detailed learning outcomes, refer to ANU's official website. HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing course structure and supervisor availability before applying.
The Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification only — no dual awards are offered. The course does not include foundation studies or a VET national code. As a research degree, you will be expected to work independently with regular supervision. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500). The program is delivered at ANU's Canberra City West campus. Remember, the duration is indicative based on full-time study; part-time options may not be available for international students due to visa requirements. Always confirm the study mode with the provider when applying.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering are indicative at A$234,100 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as materials or student services) are estimated at A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$235,592. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always visit ANU's official website. HeadStart Academy provides these estimates as a guide only. International students should budget for additional expenses: OSHC (approx. A$500–$700 per year for a single student), living costs in Canberra (indicative weekly rent $300–$500, groceries $80–$150, transport $30–$50), and the visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Financial capacity is a key GTE criterion — ensure you have sufficient funds before applying.
Entry into Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering typically requires a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a Master's degree in a related field. A high level of academic achievement and research potential is expected. English language proficiency is required — generally IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0–7.0, depending on the program). Other tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for doctoral programs; however, some universities offer pre-research or bridging programs. For exact prerequisites, refer to ANU's admissions page. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements — they are determined by the institution. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for visa conditions.
This course has no work component. Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering does not include a mandatory work placement, internship, or professional experience. However, as a research student, you may be involved in teaching or lab assistance voluntarily. For student visa (Subclass 500) holders, work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. These rights are subject to visa conditions and cannot be relied upon for financial support. HeadStart Academy recommends ensuring you have sufficient funds for tuition and living costs without needing to work. Always check the latest work conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 40 ANU CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a vibrant student community with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport includes buses and light rail, with convenient access to the ANU campus. Accommodation options range from on-campus colleges to private rentals. The cost of living in Canberra is estimated at A$500–$700 per week for a single student, including rent, groceries, and transport. ANU is located near the city centre, making it easy to explore cultural attractions like the National Gallery and Parliament House. HeadStart Academy provides this location context to help you decide if Canberra suits your study lifestyle.
To study Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering on a CRICOS-registered course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study, work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and include family members. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, have sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for visa guidance, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change).
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering at Australian National University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (ACT) to compare options. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered and the course code 048379B is listed. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit ANU's website to review entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and research proposal guidelines. Submit your application online along with required documents (academic transcripts, CV, research plan). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. HeadStart Academy recommends starting the visa process early to allow for processing times.
Choosing a PhD is a significant commitment. Consider the following: First, research supervision — identify potential supervisors whose expertise matches your interest. Second, funding — doctoral programs may offer scholarships (e.g., ANU's HDR stipend) but don't rely on them. Third, location — Canberra offers a quiet, study-focused environment but may have limited industry connections compared to larger cities. Fourth, time — the 4-year duration is indicative; extensions are possible but costly. Fifth, career outcomes — a PhD in physics prepares you for research and academia, but also for roles in data science, engineering, or policy. HeadStart Academy notes that Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers with 26,433 courses, so explore all options. ESOS Act protections apply, and you have legal recourse if issues arise. Consult with the university's student services for personalised advice.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Research more Doctoral Degrees in Natural and Physical Sciences on HeadStart Academy and compare CRICOS-registered providers today.
All Doctoral Degree courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Physics and Engineering 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.