Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) (CRICOS course code 064801D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification immerses students in advanced research within the field of Philosophy and Religious Studies. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative tuition fee of A$166,212, this program is ideal for those seeking a career in academia, research, or religious leadership. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness. Explore the details below to understand fees, locations, and visa requirements for this doctoral program.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) (CRICOS 064801D) is a research-intensive doctoral program at The University of Newcastle (UoN), a government-owned institution established in 1965. This Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Philosophy and Religious Studies (091703). The course is designed for students who wish to contribute original knowledge to religious studies, theology, or comparative religion. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees ESOS Act protections, ensuring your tuition fees are safeguarded and you have access to student support services. UoN is one of over 1,500 CRICOS providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. This program is available at two campuses in New South Wales: Callaghan and Ourimbah, both well-connected to public transport and student amenities.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) focuses on advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and scholarly writing within the discipline of religious studies. Students typically engage in a supervised research project that culminates in a thesis of up to 100,000 words. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor, the program generally covers theoretical frameworks such as phenomenology of religion, comparative theology, and sociology of religion. Graduates develop skills in data collection, ethical research practices, and academic communication. This level of study prepares students for roles in universities, think tanks, or interfaith organisations. The field of Philosophy and Religious Studies (091703) is part of the broader Society and Culture category, which accounts for a significant share of international student enrolments in Australia.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time research program with no part-time option for international students on a Student visa. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree or combined program. No foundation studies or VET pathways are included. Students are expected to work independently with regular supervision from their academic advisor. The University of Newcastle may offer extensions in exceptional circumstances, but the standard CRICOS duration is 4 years.
Indicative tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) are A$166,212 for the full 4 years. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,608, bringing the estimated total to A$167,820. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional expenses: in Newcastle, indicative weekly costs are around A$350–A$550 for rent, A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. Always confirm current fees on the provider’s website at www.newcastle.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not set fees; we present CRICOS data for your reference.
Admission to a Doctoral Degree typically requires a Master’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree with Honours (AQF Level 8). For this program, an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) is commonly required. Some applicants may need a research proposal or to identify a supervisor. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; refer to The University of Newcastle for specific prerequisites. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion under the Student visa framework. These requirements are indicative only – always confirm with the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa advice.
This course has no work component. It is a research degree without mandatory internships, placements, or work experience. Students may, however, seek casual employment under Student visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and should be verified with the Department of Home Affairs. The absence of a work component means the program is purely academic, focusing on independent research and thesis completion.
Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) is delivered at two campuses in New South Wales: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) – CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) – Ourimbah, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus, located 12 km from Newcastle’s city centre, with free shuttle buses and train access. Ourimbah is on the Central Coast, about 80 km north of Sydney, and offers a regional study experience. Newcastle has a student population of over 40,000 and is home to multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Newcastle are moderate compared to Sydney. Both campuses provide libraries, research facilities, and student support services. When choosing a campus, consider proximity to accommodation and transport links.
International students enrolled in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate an intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence includes tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year from October 2023), and travel. ESOS Act protections ensure course quality, refunds, and access to complaints processes. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered. For visa details, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a MARA agent.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Religious Studies), and location (NSW). Confirm the provider’s CRICOS registration (00109J) and course code (064801D).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English language test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0). Submit an online application via the University of Newcastle’s admissions portal. Some courses require you to identify a supervisor before applying.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa online. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Processing times vary – apply early. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not handle applications; always deal directly with the institution and the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore more doctoral degrees in Religious Studies across Australia on HeadStart Academy.
Doctor of Philosophy (Religious Studies) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.