Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 064191C) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 4 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to make a significant original contribution to their field of study. Swinburne University (CRICOS 00111D) is a government-funded institution located in Melbourne, Victoria, offering world-class facilities and supervision. The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$183,200, which covers 208 weeks of full-time study. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) provides this information directly from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study at a legitimate institution under the ESOS Act protections. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent.
The Doctor of Philosophy is Australia’s highest research degree, requiring students to undertake a substantial piece of original research culminating in a thesis. This program is classified under Field of Education 129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., reflecting its interdisciplinary nature. Swinburne University of Technology offers this PhD across various disciplines, with supervision provided by leading academics. As a CRICOS-registered course (064191C), international students can enrol and access Australia’s student visa framework. The course is delivered in English over 208 weeks (4 years) of full-time study. Swinburne’s research strengths include astrophysics, design innovation, social sciences, and business. Graduates emerge with advanced critical thinking, research methodology, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, and government. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, but a PhD from a Group of Eight or similar research-intensive university like Swinburne is globally recognised.
As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), the Doctor of Philosophy focuses on original research and scholarly inquiry. Students work under a supervisory panel to develop a research proposal, conduct independent investigation, and produce a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. The field of education (129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.) indicates that the PhD is not confined to a single discipline; it can encompass any area of study offered by the university. Typical learning outcomes include: demonstrating mastery of a substantial body of knowledge, applying rigorous research methods, synthesising and critically evaluating complex ideas, and communicating findings effectively to diverse audiences. Students also develop project management, ethics compliance, and collaboration skills. While specific syllabi vary by research topic, all PhD candidates must complete milestones such as confirmation of candidature and a final thesis examination. Swinburne may offer coursework components in research training to support candidature.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The course is delivered in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. The course is classified as a higher education research degree, not a VET course. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. While the CRICOS register shows the standard duration, actual completion times can vary based on research progress; extensions may be possible with approval. Students should budget for the full 4-year period when planning finances. The mode is on-campus at the Hawthorn campus, with access to laboratories, libraries, and research facilities. Some disciplines may allow off-campus fieldwork. There is no optional study mode listed for this course.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy is A$183,200 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no additional mandatory charges, though students should confirm with Swinburne for any course-specific costs. The estimated total is A$183,200. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change; they are set by Swinburne University of Technology. Importantly, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is compulsory for international students, nor does it cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, or the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 as of 2025). For current fees, always visit the provider's website: https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international. As a guide, a single student in Melbourne may need approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs. HeadStart Academy advises checking the latest Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements.
Entry requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy typically include a master’s degree that includes a research component, or a bachelor’s degree with honours (first class or upper second class). Applicants must demonstrate research capability through prior work. The English language requirement for this course is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent), though specific bands may vary. Some disciplines may require higher scores. Proof of English proficiency is required for applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; however, Swinburne may offer a Master of Research as a preparatory pathway. It is essential to meet the academic and English requirements and submit a research proposal aligned with Swinburne’s areas of expertise. Always refer to Swinburne’s official admissions page for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly or engaging a registered education agent.
The CRICOS register indicates that this course includes a work component, but specific details such as duration, hours per week, or total hours are not provided in the register. For Doctoral Degrees, work-integrated learning often involves teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or industry placements related to the research topic. Swinburne may offer opportunities for PhD candidates to engage in teaching or consultancy. Students should verify the exact nature and requirements of the work component directly with Swinburne University of Technology. Work components can enhance employability but must not interfere with visa conditions. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are limited to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term time; however, work integrated learning that is a compulsory part of the course may have different rules—check with your institution.
This course is delivered at Hawthorn Campus, John Street, Swinburne University, in the suburb of Hawthorn, Victoria. Hawthorn is an inner-eastern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 7 km from the city centre. The campus is accessible by tram, train (Hawthorn station on the Lilydale, Belgrave, and Glen Waverley lines), and bus. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city with over 5 million residents, including a large international student population. Hawthorn itself is a vibrant area with cafes, shops, and parks. Typical living costs in Melbourne are around A$450–A$600 per week for rent, depending on accommodation type. Melbourne has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses at all levels. Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus provides state-of-the-art research facilities, libraries, and student support services. The location combines urban convenience with a campus atmosphere.
International students enrolled in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To be eligible, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for CRICOS course 064191C. Key visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes satisfactorily, and achieve satisfactory course progress. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence—covering tuition, living costs, and travel—is required. Living costs for a single student are estimated at A$29,710 per year (2025 Department of Home Affairs figures). The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition protection if your provider cannot deliver the course. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy at Swinburne University of Technology:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is registered to deliver your course. Check that the Doctor of Philosophy (064191C) aligns with your research interests. HeadStart Academy provides a free search tool to compare courses.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, curriculum vitae, and references. Submit your application through Swinburne’s online portal (https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international). Deadlines vary; apply at least 6 months before your intended start.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. Seek professional advice if needed.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a premier study destination with a strong research culture. Before committing to a PhD here, consider: the availability of research supervisors in your area—Swinburne has dedicated research centres in astrophysics, design, and business. Check funding opportunities: many PhDs offer scholarships covering tuition and a stipend; Swinburne has the Swinburne University Postgraduate Research Awards (SUPRA). Also factor in living costs: Melbourne is considered one of Australia’s most affordable major cities for students, but budgeting is essential. The state has over 20 universities and many public transport options. Think about career outcomes: a PhD can lead to roles in academia, R&D, or knowledge-intensive industries. Finally, ensure you meet the visa and English requirements. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you navigate these decisions, but always verify details with the provider.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore Swinburne’s Doctor of Philosophy further by visiting the provider’s official website, or use HeadStart Academy’s free CRICOS search tool to compare similar courses in Victoria.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.