Doctor of Philosophy - Music (CRICOS course code 056960M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This prestigious research degree, registered under CRICOS provider code 00116K, allows international students to pursue advanced research in music under expert supervision at one of Australia’s leading universities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring access to ESOS Act protections. The program is based at the Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria — a vibrant cultural hub with over 60,000 students from around the world. HeadStart Academy provides independent, free guidance to help you navigate your study options, with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This doctoral program is classified under Field of Education 100101 - Music, within the Creative Arts discipline. Candidates undertake a substantial research project leading to a thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field of music. Typical areas include musicology, composition, performance practice, ethnomusicology, and music education. The degree is at AQF Level 10 (Doctoral Degree), requiring demonstration of systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of the discipline. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, high-level performance, or creative leadership.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) for full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). The program is research-intensive, with supervision and milestone requirements as per university policy.
Indicative tuition fees for the full 4-year program are A$218,016, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is A$218,016. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included. Fees are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website before applying. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register and does not guarantee amounts.
International applicants typically require a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications should include a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. Some candidates may be admitted via a pathway program — check with The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) for specific requirements. Meeting minimum entry does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students may engage in casual work subject to student visa conditions (see Student Visa section below).
The Doctor of Philosophy - Music is delivered at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) — Parkville campus, VIC. Parkville is a major educational precinct in inner Melbourne, minutes from the CBD, with excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses). Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers, offering a rich cultural and academic environment.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining OSHC coverage, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance but recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual advice. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free tool to find doctoral degrees in Creative Arts. Verify CRICOS registration (The University of Melbourne is CRICOS-registered). 2. Apply directly to The University of Melbourne (UniMelb): Submit an online application with academic transcripts, English test results, research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements.
Start your research on HeadStart Academy to explore more doctoral degree options and find your path to studying in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Music 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.