Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) - CRICOS 057674J

Course overview

Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) (CRICOS course code 057674J) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Notre Dame Australia over 3 years (156 weeks). This course is designed for registered nurses and healthcare professionals seeking to contribute original research to the field of nursing. The University of Notre Dame Australia is a private, CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 01032F) with campuses in Broadway (NSW), Fremantle (WA), and Broome (WA). As a doctoral candidate, you will undertake independent research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis that advances nursing knowledge and practice. The field of education is 060300 Nursing, n.f.d., falling under Health (06). This course is available to international students and is listed on the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and visa options. Always verify the latest details with the provider before applying.

What you'll study

As a Doctor of Philosophy candidate in the College of Nursing, you will engage in a rigorous program of research that contributes new knowledge to the discipline of nursing. The course is tailored to your research interests, with a focus on areas such as clinical nursing, health services, nursing education, and patient outcomes. You will develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. The curriculum typically includes a research proposal, literature review, data collection and analysis, and a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. You will also have opportunities to present your findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. The University of Notre Dame Australia emphasises ethical research practices and the integration of nursing theory with practice. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, clinical research, healthcare administration, and policy development. This course is not a taught program; it is a research degree that requires independent study and regular supervision meetings.

Duration and study mode

The Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) is scheduled for 3 years (156 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research degree. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. There is no foundation studies component. As a doctoral candidate, you are expected to devote yourself to full-time research, though part-time options may be available at the provider's discretion. The research is conducted under the guidance of a supervisory panel. You will have access to university libraries, research facilities, and online resources. The 3-year duration is indicative; actual completion time may vary depending on progress and approval of thesis. Always check with The University of Notre Dame Australia for the latest study mode options.

Fees (indicative – set by The University of Notre Dame Australia)

The indicative tuition fee for the full 3-year (156-week) program is A$146,190. Non-tuition fees are A$0. The estimated total cost is A$146,190. These fees are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs in Australia vary by location: in Sydney (Broadway campus), weekly rent is typically A$300–600, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$40–60. In Fremantle or Broome, costs may be lower. For current fees, including any scholarships or fee waivers, always visit The University of Notre Dame Australia's official website at www.nd.edu.au.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (first class or upper second class) or a master's degree (by research or coursework with a research component) in nursing or a related health field. Applicants must demonstrate research capability through a thesis or equivalent. English language proficiency is required: an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.5–7.0 as specified by the provider) or equivalent. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English. AHPRA registration as a registered nurse may be required. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, some students may enter via a master's by research. Refer to The University of Notre Dame Australia for precise entry criteria, as requirements vary by research area.

Work component

This course has no mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) is a research degree, and there is no clinical placement or internship required as part of the program. However, you may choose to engage in voluntary or paid work outside of study hours, subject to student visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods. Ensure any work does not interfere with your research commitments.

Delivery locations

The Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) is delivered at three campuses of The University of Notre Dame Australia: Broadway in New South Wales (Sydney city), Fremantle in Western Australia (near Perth), and Broome in Western Australia (regional). Each location offers a unique study environment. Broadway is in the heart of Sydney, a major global city with over 1,200 registered CRICOS providers and a large international student population. Fremantle is a historic port city with a vibrant student community, close to Perth's city centre. Broome offers a tropical, multicultural setting in Australia's northwest. All campuses provide research facilities, libraries, and supervision support. Students can choose the location that best fits their research needs and lifestyle.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in Australia. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and provide evidence of English proficiency. The visa also permits work: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to apply

Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy (College of Nursing) at The University of Notre Dame Australia involves three key steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral degrees in nursing across Australia, filtering by course level, field, and city. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal and academic transcripts. The University of Notre Dame Australia requires an online application with supporting documents. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides guides on each step, but always verify with the provider.

Ready to take the next step? Explore more doctoral degrees in nursing on HeadStart Academy and start your application journey today.

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