Doctor of Philosophy (Sciences, Engineering and Health) (CRICOS course code 058808C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Central Queensland University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for international students seeking to advance knowledge through original research in natural and physical sciences, engineering, and health disciplines. Offered across multiple Australian campuses including Adelaide, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, and Mackay, the course provides a pathway to careers in academia, research, and industry. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 00219C), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy presents this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This doctoral degree focuses on Natural and Physical Sciences (Field of Education 010000). Graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial body of knowledge, including mastery of research principles and methods. The program involves independent research leading to a thesis or equivalent, contributing original knowledge to the field. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, typical learning outcomes include advanced analytical skills, research design, data collection and analysis, and scholarly communication. This is a research-intensive degree, requiring candidates to work closely with a supervisory team. No foundation studies or dual qualification options are associated with this course.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy (Sciences, Engineering and Health) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual award is offered. Students are expected to engage in full-time research, though part-time options may be available at the provider's discretion. The course does not include a mandatory work component.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$157,440 for the full program, with zero non-tuition fees, giving an estimated total of A$157,440. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Fees are set by Central Queensland University and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website (www.cqu.edu.au). HeadStart Academy provides fee data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 – always verify before applying.
For this doctoral level, a prior qualification equivalent to an Australian master's degree (by research) or bachelor's degree with honours is typically expected. English language proficiency is required with an IELTS overall score of 6.5-7.0 (or equivalent). Foundation or pathway options may be available through the provider; check directly with Central Queensland University for preparatory programs. Note that entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary by specialisation. Prospective students should review detailed eligibility on the provider's website.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at six Central Queensland University campuses: Adelaide C.Q.U. Campus (Wayville, SA), Brisbane C.Q.U. Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Bundaberg C.Q.U. Campus (Bundaberg, QLD), Cairns C.Q.U. Campus (Cairns, QLD), Gladstone C.Q.U. Campus (Gladstone, QLD), and Mackay C.Q.U. Campus (Mackay, QLD). Each location offers access to research facilities and supervision. For example, Adelaide is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and offers a vibrant student community with indicative living costs around A$350-500 per week for rent. Brisbane, with over 50 registered providers, has a larger student population and public transport connectivity. Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, and Mackay provide regional study experiences with lower living costs. Consider your preferred city and available supervision when choosing a location.
International students enrolling in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – note that conditions may change. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa regulations. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and city. Confirm that Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is the right choice for your research interests.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Central Queensland University's website (www.cqu.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), application deadlines, and research proposal guidelines. Submit your application along with supporting documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE from CQU. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
A doctoral degree is ideal for those passionate about research and innovation. Consider your career goals – academia, industry R&D, or specialised professional roles. Location matters: regional campuses like Bundaberg or Mackay offer lower living costs and close-knit research communities, while Brisbane and Adelaide provide more networking opportunities. Ensure you have a strong academic background in a related field and are prepared for an intensive 4-year commitment. HeadStart Academy's database includes over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ providers – explore other options to find the best fit.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore Central Queensland University on HeadStart Academy, or visit www.cqu.edu.au for application details.
Doctor of Philosophy (Sciences, Engineering and Health) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. 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.