Doctor of Philosophy - Law (CRICOS course code 056956G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This prestigious research program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, specifically Law (090900), and is designed for students who wish to make a significant original contribution to legal knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00116K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's leading universities, with a strong reputation in legal research and education. This page provides a comprehensive guide to the Doctor of Philosophy - Law, including fees, entry requirements, location, and student visa information, to help you plan your study journey in Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Doctor of Philosophy - Law (CRICOS course code 056956G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years (208 weeks). The course is classified under Field of Education 090900 Law, n.f.d., focusing on advanced research in legal theory, jurisprudence, and specialised areas of law. As a PhD, it requires students to complete a substantial thesis that demonstrates independent critical thinking and makes a unique contribution to the field. The University of Melbourne is a Government-funded institution with CRICOS registration 00116K, located in Parkville, Victoria. This course has no dual qualification, no foundation studies, and no work component — it is purely research-based, with instruction in English. International students are drawn to this program for its academic rigour and the opportunity to work with leading legal scholars in Australia's top-ranked law faculty.
While specific syllabuses vary by supervisor, a Doctor of Philosophy in Law typically involves advanced coursework in legal research methodology, followed by independent research culminating in a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. Students explore areas such as constitutional law, international law, human rights, commercial law, and legal philosophy. The program develops high-level skills in critical analysis, legal writing, and scholarly argumentation. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, legal practice, policy-making, or international organisations. This general guidance reflects the level and field of the course, but for exact research topics and available supervisors, we recommend consulting The University of Melbourne's website or contacting the faculty directly.
The Doctor of Philosophy - Law is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). Students typically engage in supervised research, with regular meetings with their supervisor(s). There is no mandatory work component. The full-time load is expected, but part-time options may be available under specific circumstances (check with the provider). The University of Melbourne campus in Parkville, Victoria, provides access to extensive library resources, research centres, and a vibrant academic community.
The indicative total fee for Doctor of Philosophy - Law is A$236,580, broken down as: - Tuition: A$236,580 - Non-tuition fees: A$0 - Estimated total: A$236,580 These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Melbourne. They are subject to change; always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$600–A$1,500 per year depending on coverage. Living expenses in Melbourne (including rent, groceries, and transport) are estimated at around A$21,000–A$25,000 per year. For the most current fee information, visit unimelb.edu.au.
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy - Law typically requires a strong academic background, such as a Master's degree in Law or a related discipline with a significant research component, or a Bachelor's degree with honours (at least H2A or equivalent). English language proficiency is a key requirement; the IELTS overall score should be 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Other English tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. Some applicants may need to complete a preliminary research proposal and secure a supervisor before applying. Foundation studies are not applicable for this level. Entry requirements are set by The University of Melbourne — always refer to their official website for precise details.
No work component — this course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. Students may, however, engage in voluntary research assistance or teaching opportunities within the university, but these are not part of the curriculum.
This course is delivered at The University of Melbourne's main campus in Parkville, VIC. Parkville is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, home to a large student population and numerous cultural institutions. Melbourne has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,500 courses to international students. The city is known for its excellent public transport, with trams and trains connecting to the campus. Average weekly rent in Melbourne is around A$300–A$500 for a one-bedroom apartment, and groceries cost approximately A$80–A$150 per week. The city's diverse food scene, laneways, and sports events make it an attractive destination for international students.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy - Law need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: evidence of enrolment (CoE), sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Student work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Remember that visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs and may change. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy - Law at The University of Melbourne is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Law), and location (Victoria). Confirm The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) offers this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit unimelb.edu.au, check entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare your research proposal, and submit your application before the deadline. You may need to secure a supervisor. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then apply for the visa via the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of OSHC, finances, and GTE.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students. It offers a multicultural environment, world-class universities, and a thriving arts scene. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around $200–$350. Public transport is reliable, with a myki card system. The city has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. For a PhD in Law, Melbourne provides access to top legal institutions, courts, and legal aid organisations. However, consider the research strengths of The University of Melbourne's law faculty and the availability of supervision in your specific area of interest before deciding.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Law is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.