Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 059853A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Avondale University over 3 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is ideal for international students seeking to conduct original research in Philosophy and Religious Studies (Field of Education 091701). Avondale University, a private CRICOS-registered provider (02731D), offers this program at its Lake Macquarie and Sydney campuses in New South Wales. As a doctoral candidate, you will engage in advanced scholarly inquiry, contributing new knowledge to your field. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD is a pathway to academic or research careers. HeadStart Academy provides this detailed overview to help you evaluate whether this program aligns with your academic goals and visa requirements.
Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 059853A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Avondale University over 3 years (156 weeks). The course is classified under Field of Education 091701 - Philosophy, within the broader Society and Culture field. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Avondale University is a private higher education provider with a strong research focus. This PhD is designed for students who wish to pursue original research under expert supervision. The language of instruction is English, and the course does not include a work component. For more on CRICOS registration, visit our glossary page.
This Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) prepares graduates to undertake independent research at the highest level. In Philosophy and Religious Studies, you will develop advanced skills in critical analysis, theoretical reasoning, and research methodology. The program typically involves a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. While the specific syllabus is set by Avondale University, graduates can expect to gain expertise in ethical reasoning, philosophical inquiry, and scholarly communication. These skills are valuable for careers in academia, research institutes, policy development, and beyond. Australia's robust research environment, supported by the ESOS Act, ensures high-quality supervision and student protections.
The CRICOS register lists this Doctor of Philosophy as 3 years (156 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Study mode is typically on-campus, with access to university facilities and supervision. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Avondale University may offer flexible arrangements, but the CRICOS duration is fixed. For more on student visa requirements, see our Student Visa (Subclass 500) guide.
Tuition fees for this Doctor of Philosophy are indicative at A$149,440 for the full 3-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,456, bringing the total to A$150,896. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Avondale University. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500-700 per week in NSW for rent, food, and transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.avondale.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides this data for guidance only.
Entry to a Doctoral Degree typically requires completion of a Master's degree or Honours degree with research component. Avondale University sets specific academic and English language requirements. For this PhD, an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall (or equivalent) is expected. Applicants must also demonstrate research capability through previous work or a research proposal. Some students may enter via a pathway program if they don't meet direct entry criteria — consult Avondale for options. CRICOS-registered providers like Avondale must adhere to ESOS Act standards, ensuring fair entry processes. Always verify requirements with the institution before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with your studies. While the PhD itself has no work requirement, you may choose to seek employment to support living costs. For details on student work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
Avondale University delivers this Doctor of Philosophy at two campuses in New South Wales: Lake Macquarie in Cooranbong and Sydney in Wahroonga. Cooranbong is near Lake Macquarie, about 1.5 hours north of Sydney, offering a quieter study environment with access to nature. Wahroonga is a suburb on Sydney's Upper North Shore, with good public transport to the city centre. Both campuses provide research facilities and supervision. NSW hosts over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular destination for international students. Living costs in Sydney are higher than in Cooranbong, with average rent around A$300-500 per week for shared accommodation. Consider your lifestyle preferences when choosing a campus.
To study this Doctor of Philosophy as an international student, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Avondale University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and English language proficiency. OSHC is mandatory for health cover. Once enrolled, you can work part-time as mentioned. The visa processing time varies, so apply early. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for advice. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are eligible for student visas.
New South Wales is home to over 100,000 international students and offers a vibrant research culture. With major universities in Sydney, Newcastle, and regional centres, NSW provides diverse networking and collaboration opportunities. The cost of living varies: Sydney is one of Australia's most expensive cities, while Cooranbong offers a more affordable, suburban lifestyle. Public transport connects all campuses, and the state's strong economy supports part-time work. If you value research intensity and career opportunities, NSW is an excellent choice. However, consider your budget and preferred study environment — some students thrive in quiet regional settings. HeadStart Academy helps you compare these factors.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy at Avondale University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Philosophy), and location (NSW). Verify that Avondale University's CRICOS code 02731D is current on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, meet English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and submit your application by the deadline. Avondale may require an interview or additional documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application, including evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing can take weeks, so apply well in advance.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore more doctoral degrees in New South Wales on HeadStart Academy.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Avondale 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.