Doctor of Philosophy (Creative Writing) (CRICOS course code 069109F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 4 years. This program is designed for aspiring researchers and creative practitioners who wish to contribute original knowledge to the field of literature and creative writing. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Monash University, located in Melbourne, Victoria, is a leading research-intensive institution with a strong reputation in the humanities. The course is delivered at the Monash Clayton campus, set in one of Australia's largest and most culturally diverse cities.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Creative Writing) (CRICOS course code 069109F) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 4 years. This course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Language and Literature (0915), with a focus on Literature (091523). As a doctoral program, it requires candidates to undertake independent research leading to a substantial thesis that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in creative writing. The program is designed for students who have already completed a master's degree or equivalent with a research component. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), this course is registered for international students and provides the necessary enrolment documentation for a Student visa (Subclass 500).
While specific syllabus details are set by Monash University, doctoral studies in Literature typically involve advanced research methods, critical theory, and creative practice. Students develop skills in literary analysis, narrative construction, editing, and scholarly writing. The program emphasises independent research, culminating in a creative work (such as a novel, poetry collection, or memoir) accompanied by a critical exegesis. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, publishing, writing, or cultural management. This level of study requires a deep engagement with contemporary literary debates and the ability to produce work of publishable quality.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) for full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies or a VET component. The course is delivered on-campus at Monash Clayton in Clayton, Victoria. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. Part-time study may be available in limited circumstances, but it is not the standard mode for doctoral programs.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$201,232 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, materials, and thesis preparation. The estimated total cost is A$201,232. These fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Monash University at www.monash.edu.au. International students must also pay for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student in Melbourne), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710).
Entry to a Doctoral Degree typically requires completion of a bachelor's degree with honours (at least second class upper) or a master's degree with a significant research component. International students must demonstrate English proficiency. The CRICOS register indicates a general English requirement of IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band less than 6.0-6.5). Other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Monash may have specific prerequisites; applicants should check the provider's website. Foundation studies are not applicable for this level. Students who do not meet direct entry may consider pathway programs such as a Master's by Research or Graduate Diploma.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, many doctoral candidates engage in teaching or research assistant roles voluntarily. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The work must not interfere with study requirements.
This course is delivered at Monash Clayton, located in the suburb of Clayton, approximately 20 km south-east of Melbourne's central business district. Victoria is home to over 180 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Melbourne has a large international student population (over 250,000) and excellent public transport, including trains and buses connecting Clayton to the city. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400-550, groceries A$80-150, and public transport A$40-60. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and world-class amenities.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and attendance. Students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to study and return home. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holidays. Dependants may have work restrictions. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Application for this course follows a three-step process: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by Doctoral Degree, field of Society and Culture, and location Victoria. Compare Monash University's offerings including this course. 2. Apply directly to Monash University: Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and references. Submit your application through Monash's online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Monash will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a rich cultural landscape, diverse food scene, and strong job market for graduates. For doctoral students, the city hosts several major universities with extensive library resources and research networks. However, the cost of living is relatively high, and the climate is variable. Consider your preferences for urban versus suburban living, as Clayton is less central. The city's public transport is reliable, and many students choose to live near campus or along transport corridors. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, so if Monash doesn't suit, other options exist.
Ready to start your doctoral journey? Explore this course on Monash University's website and begin your application today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Creative Writing) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Monash University (Monash). 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.