Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* (CRICOS course code 050321B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Western Sydney University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program falls under the broad field of Engineering and Related Technologies, offering international students the opportunity to conduct original research under expert supervision. Western Sydney University is a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00917K) with multiple campuses across Greater Western Sydney. As part of Australia’s CRICOS-registered system, this course meets strict quality standards under the ESOS Act. With over 1,556 registered providers and 26,433 courses available, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options in Australia. Whether you aim to advance your career in academia, industry, or research, this PhD provides a solid foundation. The indicative total fee is A$153,520, covering tuition and non-tuition costs. Western Sydney University is known for its strong research output and commitment to innovation, particularly in engineering and technology fields. The university's strategic partnerships with industry and government provide PhD candidates with unique networking opportunities. Additionally, studying in New South Wales offers access to vibrant cities like Sydney, with its diverse culture and robust job market for high-skilled professionals. The course is delivered across six campuses, each with state-of-the-art facilities and strong community connections. As an international student, you'll benefit from Australia's ESOS protections, which safeguard your tuition fees and academic experience.
Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* (CRICOS course code 050321B) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Western Sydney University over 4 years (208 weeks). The course sits within the field of Engineering and Related Technologies, focusing on original research in science, technology, and engineering. Western Sydney University is a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00917K) with a strong reputation for research and innovation. As part of Australia’s CRICOS-registered system, this course is subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer protection for international students. The indicative total fee is A$153,520, including tuition and non-tuition costs, though living expenses and OSHC are additional. The course is available at multiple campuses across Greater Western Sydney, including Bankstown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Liverpool, Parramatta, and Penrith.
As a Doctoral Degree in Engineering and Related Technologies (n.f.d.), this PhD program requires candidates to undertake a substantial independent research project that contributes original knowledge to the field. Students work closely with a supervisory panel to develop research questions, conduct experiments or theoretical analyses, and produce a thesis of publishable quality. The field covers a broad range of topics within engineering and technology, and candidates are expected to demonstrate advanced critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Western Sydney University provides access to cutting-edge laboratories, computing facilities, and research centres, including the Institute for Infrastructure Engineering and the MARCS Institute. Students also benefit from professional development workshops and seminars. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, R&D in industry, or leadership roles in government and private sectors.
The Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* is a 4-year full-time program, equivalent to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course leads to a single qualification (not a dual degree). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The program is delivered on campus at one of Western Sydney University's six campuses. There is no component of external or online study; students are expected to be physically present for research and supervision meetings. The duration may be extended with the approval of the university, but standard CRICOS duration is 4 years.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* is A$152,320 for the full 4-year program. In addition, non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,200, bringing the total indicative cost to A$153,520 as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–$1,500 per year depending on provider and coverage. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment in Western Sydney around A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. Always confirm current fees with Western Sydney University directly as they are subject to change.
General entry requirements for a Doctoral Degree at Western Sydney University include a master's degree or bachelor's degree with honours (Class II or above) in a relevant discipline. International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency, typically with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0). However, specific requirements vary by research area and supervisor. Some candidates may be accepted with a bachelor's degree plus substantial relevant work or research experience. For detailed and current entry criteria, you should consult Western Sydney University's website or admissions office. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, students who do not meet the direct entry requirements may consider a master's degree as a stepping stone.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* is a research-intensive program, and students are expected to dedicate their time to their research project. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Many PhD students engage in casual academic work, such as tutoring or research assistance, which can provide income and valuable experience. Any work must not interfere with course progress.
The Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* is delivered at six campuses of Western Sydney University, all located in Greater Western Sydney, New South Wales: Bankstown City (Bankstown), Campbelltown, Hawkesbury (Richmond), Liverpool, Parramatta, and Penrith (Kingswood). Each campus offers research facilities, libraries, and supervision. Parramatta is a major business hub with excellent transport links, while Penrith offers a quieter suburban setting. Students should consider proximity to their supervisor and access to specific laboratories when choosing a campus. All campuses are accessible by public transport, and the region has a large international student community. New South Wales is home to over 200,000 international students, with Sydney offering a vibrant cultural scene and diverse job opportunities.
International students planning to study this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and limited work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold valid OSHC for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs sets the financial capacity requirements; as of 2026, living costs are approximately A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). OSHC is mandatory and can be arranged through your institution or a private provider. Note that this course has no foundation studies component, so you must meet entry requirements before applying for the visa. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* at Western Sydney University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) is registered to offer this course. You can also compare other PhD programs in engineering across different institutions and locations on HeadStart Academy.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents, including academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, and English language test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0). Contact potential supervisors to discuss your research interests. Submit your application through Western Sydney University's online portal by their application deadline.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa at the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement.
Ready to apply? Start your application to the Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* at Western Sydney University today.
Doctor of Philosophy [ST&E]* is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney 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.