Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) (CRICOS course code 069111A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students seeking to make a significant original contribution to the field of drama and theatre studies. Delivered at Monash’s Caulfield and Clayton campuses in Victoria, the course combines rigorous research training with creative practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00008C), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it a trusted destination for doctoral study. PhD graduates in theatre performance often pursue careers in academia, professional theatre, or arts leadership.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) (CRICOS course code 069111A) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Monash University (Monash), a government-funded university with CRICOS provider code 00008C. The course spans 4 years (208 weeks) and is conducted entirely in English. It falls under the field of education 100103 - Drama and Theatre Studies. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. As a research doctorate, this program requires candidates to complete a substantial thesis or creative work that advances knowledge in theatre performance. Monash University is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, and this course is among 26,433 courses available to international students.
While specific syllabi vary, a doctoral degree in theatre performance typically involves advanced research methodologies, performance theory, and practical creative research. You will design and execute a major research project—often a combination of written thesis and live performance—that addresses a gap in the field. Graduates develop expertise in critical analysis, artistic practice, and scholarly writing. The program emphasizes independent research, with supervision from leading academics. Course content may cover areas such as contemporary theatre, performance ethnography, or dramaturgy. As this is a research degree, there are no prescribed coursework units, but you will participate in seminars and workshops to support your project.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree) and does not include a foundation studies component. Students must maintain satisfactory progress to remain enrolled. Monash University offers flexible study arrangements, but international students must enroll full-time to comply with visa conditions. The duration may be extended in exceptional circumstances with approval.
Indicative tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) are A$201,232 total, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$201,232. Please note: these are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Monash University and subject to change—always confirm directly with the provider. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fee information, visit Monash University's website. As a guide, international students should budget for living expenses: e.g., in Melbourne, weekly rent may be A$200–400, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$30–50.
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master's degree (AQF Level 9) in a relevant field, such as performing arts or theatre studies. English language proficiency is required—generally IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Monash may also accept other English tests. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive and depend on research proposal alignment and supervisor availability. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for direct entry to this doctoral level, but applicants with alternative qualifications should contact the provider. Always check individual entry requirements with Monash University.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While students may undertake casual work subject to visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), no work-integrated learning or internship is required. The program focuses entirely on research and thesis preparation.
This course is delivered at two Monash University campuses in Victoria: Monash Caulfield in Caulfield East (approximately 10 km from Melbourne CBD) and Monash Clayton in Clayton (about 20 km southeast of Melbourne). Both campuses are well-served by public transport, including trains and buses. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a major study destination with a vibrant student population of over 250,000 international students. The city offers diverse cultural opportunities for theatre students, including live performance venues and festivals.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS course, evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, and adequate health insurance (OSHC). With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC must be maintained for the visa duration. For full details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm Monash University (00008C) and this course are right for you. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Monash University, including academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, and references. Check application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Monash will issue a CoE. Then apply for the visa online through the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
A PhD in theatre performance is a significant commitment—both in time and cost. Consider your research interests: are they aligned with Monash's supervisory expertise? Victoria, particularly Melbourne, offers a rich theatre scene with venues like the Arts Centre Melbourne and Malthouse Theatre. However, living costs in Melbourne are moderate: as a guide, weekly expenses (including rent, food, and transport) may range from A$400–600. Also think about career outcomes: PhD graduates often enter academia, but competition is high. Ensure you have a clear research plan and discuss funding opportunities with Monash, such as scholarships or research assistantships.
Ready to apply? Follow the steps above or contact Monash University directly to start your PhD journey.
Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre Performance) 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.