Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences (CRICOS course code 056959D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows students to make a significant contribution to the field of medical and health sciences through original investigation. The University of Melbourne, a Group of Eight university and leading research institution, is CRICOS-registered (00116K) and located in Parkville, Victoria—a hub for biomedical research and healthcare innovation. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. This page provides essential information for prospective international students considering this PhD program, including fees, entry requirements, location insights, and visa guidance. Whether you are exploring doctoral study in medicine or health sciences, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate CRICOS data and make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences (CRICOS 056959D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) under the field of Medical Studies (060100). This is a research doctorate requiring candidates to undertake a substantial research project leading to a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge in medicine, health sciences, or a related discipline. The course is delivered in English over 4 years (208 weeks) and is classified as a single qualification with no dual award or work component. The University of Melbourne is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
As a Doctoral Degree in Medicine, Health Sciences, this program focuses on advanced research training in medical and health fields. Candidates typically engage in independent research under academic supervision, developing skills in research design, data analysis, critical thinking, and scholarly writing. The specific research topic is determined in consultation with the supervisor and may cover areas such as clinical medicine, public health, epidemiology, biomedical sciences, health services research, or allied health. The program culminates in a thesis that demonstrates a significant contribution to knowledge. While the exact syllabus varies by candidate, graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutes, healthcare leadership, and industry. This course falls under the broader field of Medical Studies, n.f.d. (060100), reflecting its interdisciplinary nature.
According to the CRICOS register, the duration of Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences is 4 years, equivalent to 208 weeks. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined program) and does not include foundation studies. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. The University of Melbourne offers a research environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and collaborative networks. Candidates are expected to be based at the Parkville campus, though some research may occur at affiliated hospitals or research centres.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition fee is A$275,787 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no mandatory additional institutional fees are recorded. The estimated total cost is A$275,787. However, international students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$1,500–$2,000 per month (including rent, groceries, and transport), depending on lifestyle. Please note: Course fees are set by institutions and subject to change. Always confirm current fees with The University of Melbourne at unimelb.edu.au before applying.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a prior qualification at Masters level or a Bachelor's degree with honours (at least H2A or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. For Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences, applicants usually need a strong academic background in medicine, health sciences, or a related field. The University of Melbourne specifies an English language requirement of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0–6.5, depending on the program). Alternative tests such as TOEFL or PTE may also be accepted. Research experience and a well-developed research proposal are critical. Some applicants may need to complete a Masters by Research before commencing the PhD. The University of Melbourne does not offer foundation or pathway programs specifically for this degree; however, pre-research coursework may be recommended. Always check the provider's website for the latest entry criteria. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
This course has no mandatory work component as per the CRICOS register. The Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences is a research degree without a required internship or placement. However, candidates may choose to engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university, which can enhance their academic experience. Such activities are not part of the course requirements and are subject to student visa work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks).
The Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a major biomedical precinct, home to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, and the Bio21 Institute. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trams and trains from Melbourne's CBD. Victoria has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering doctoral degrees, and Melbourne is Australia's largest student city with a vibrant international community. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with shared accommodation in the city centre averaging A$250–$350 per week. Public transport is affordable with a myki card. The Parkville campus is located approximately 2 km north of the city centre, accessible via tram routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, and 72.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain a visa, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Melbourne, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a doctoral student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Note: All international students in Australia are protected by the ESOS Act. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions and apply with accurate documentation. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised visa advice.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) involves three key steps. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers by course level, field, and city. Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that the course and provider are registered (CRICOS 056959D and 00116K). Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and application deadlines. Submit your research proposal, academic transcripts, and referee reports through the university's online application portal. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence and financial documents. The university's international student support team can assist with the process.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities and is a premier destination for doctoral studies, particularly in health and medical research. With over 200,000 international students and a diverse multicultural environment, the city offers a rich academic and social experience. The University of Melbourne is the top-ranked university in Australia and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight. The Parkville campus is a powerhouse of biomedical research, hosting numerous hospitals, research institutes, and biotech companies. Living costs are manageable compared to other global cities, and public transport is excellent. However, consider that the PhD is a long-term commitment (4 years) and requires self-motivation and resilience. Ensure you have adequate funding, including scholarships or stipends, as the indicative tuition is A$275,787. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare courses and providers, but we do not guarantee outcomes.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered doctoral degrees in health at HeadStart Academy, or contact The University of Melbourne for application details.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Medicine, Health Sciences 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.