Doctor of Philosophy - Science (CRICOS course code 056958E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for international students seeking advanced research training in the Natural and Physical Sciences (field: 010000). As Australia's leading research-intensive university, UniMelb offers world-class supervision, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic community. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. Whether you aim to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries or pursue an academic career, this PhD program provides a pathway to excellence. HeadStart Academy has sourced this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – a free resource for prospective students.
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This Doctoral Degree focuses on the Natural and Physical Sciences, encompassing fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, and mathematics. Students undertake original research under expert supervision, producing a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the discipline. The program emphasises critical thinking, experimental design, data analysis, and scholarly communication. Graduates develop transferable skills in problem-solving, project management, and scientific writing, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, government, or research organisations. While specific syllabi vary by project, all students complete a research proposal, literature review, and a final dissertation. The University of Melbourne's Faculty of Science offers cutting-edge laboratories and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The course is delivered full-time in English as a single qualification (no dual award). It is not a VET course (N/A). There is no mandatory work component, though students may seek casual employment under student visa conditions. The language of instruction is English, with support services available for international students.
Tuition fees for this course are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition A$255,144, non-tuition fees A$0, total estimated cost A$255,144. These fees are indicative and subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (estimated at A$30,000–A$40,000 per year for a single student in Melbourne), or the student visa application charge (currently A$710). For the most current fees, please visit the provider's website at http://www.unimelb.edu.au/. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for all related expenses.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0 or 6.5 depending on discipline). A prior qualification such as a Master's degree or Honours degree (AQF Level 8 or equivalent) in a relevant field is expected. Specific academic requirements and research experience are assessed by the department. Foundation studies are not applicable for this level; however, pathway options may be available via a Master's program. Always consult the provider's official entry requirements and contact the faculty for detailed guidance. English language waivers may be considered for applicants from certain countries.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are regulated by the Department of Home Affairs.
The program is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is a global student city with over 150,000 international students and 50+ CRICOS-registered providers. The Parkville campus is located near the city centre, accessible by tram, train, and bus. The cost of living in Melbourne for a single student is approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The city offers a rich cultural scene, diverse food, and excellent public services.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university; genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence; sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC; and English proficiency proof. Work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term. The visa also requires OSHC health insurance. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes – always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (VIC) on HeadStart Academy to find this course. 2. Apply directly to The University of Melbourne (UniMelb): Check entry requirements, prepare documents (transcripts, research proposal, English test scores), and meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
A PhD is a significant commitment. Consider: research fit – does the supervisor's expertise match your interests? Funding – are scholarships or stipends available? Location – Melbourne offers a strong research ecosystem with access to CSIRO, hospitals, and industry partners. Duration – the 4-year CRICOS duration may vary; some students take longer. Career outcomes – a PhD can lead to academia, R&D, or science communication. Use HeadStart Academy to compare providers and courses, all sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – covering 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses across Australia.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protections. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – no commission, no referral fees. We provide student visa guidance, cost breakdowns, and city insights. For this course, we display the exact CRICOS code 056958E so you can verify on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for visa advice, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and start your journey – it's free. Then apply directly to The University of Melbourne.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Doctor of Philosophy - Science 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.