Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology (CRICOS course code 070332M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Australian National University over 4 years. This research-intensive program, offered at ANU's Canberra City West campus, is designed for students aiming to make significant contributions to the field of psychology. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00120C), it meets all Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. At HeadStart Academy, we help you understand your options: ANU is one of thousands of CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, offering over 26,000 courses. This page details everything you need to know about this PhD program—from fees and entry requirements to student visa conditions and your next steps.
Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology (CRICOS 070332M) is an AQF Level 10 Doctoral Degree offered by Australian National University, Australia's top-ranked university. The course is classified under field of education 090701 - Psychology, which falls within Behavioural Science (0907) and Society and Culture (09). This PhD is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in psychology, culminating in a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The program is delivered in English over 4 years (208 weeks) and does not include a mandatory work component. It is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not offer foundation studies. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is listed on the official register as at April 2026, ensuring it meets Australian Government requirements for international student enrolment.
As a Doctoral Degree in Psychology, the program focuses on developing advanced research skills and deep expertise in a specialised area of psychology. Students typically engage in independent research under supervision, produce a substantial thesis, and may undertake coursework in research methods, ethics, and professional skills. The field of psychology covers areas such as cognitive psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience. Graduates of this level are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector roles requiring high-level analytical and research capabilities. The specific syllabus is determined by Australian National University, so you should review the program details on their website for precise learning outcomes and research areas.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The program is delivered in English, with full-time study expected. There is no dual qualification or embedded foundation studies. Students should plan for a significant commitment to independent research and regular supervisory meetings. ANU's Canberra campus provides access to world-class libraries, laboratories, and research centres. If you require part-time study, you must check with ANU and your visa conditions, as student visas generally require full-time enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology is A$247,230 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$248,722. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by ANU. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check ANU's website: http://www.anu.edu.au/. OSHC is mandatory for international students; a typical single policy for 4 years costs around A$2,000–A$3,000. Living costs in Canberra, the capital city, are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus is A$400–A$550, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport about A$35 per week (with student concessions available).
International students applying for the Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology should typically hold a master's degree with a research component or a bachelor's degree with first-class or upper second-class honours in psychology or a related field. English language proficiency is required; ANU generally expects an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), with no band below 6.0–7.0 depending on the program. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and PTE. Some candidates may need to complete a research proposal and provide references. Entry is competitive and subject to supervision availability. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, consider pathway options such as a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Always confirm exact requirements with Australian National University before applying.
No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. Unlike some programs that integrate internships or practicums, the Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology is research-focused. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). This can help offset living costs, but your primary focus must remain on your studies.
The Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to a large student population with over 5,000 international students. It offers a safe, multicultural environment with excellent public transport (buses and light rail) connecting the city and suburbs. The city has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including several universities and colleges. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with typical student rent between A$250–A$550 per week. The campus is within walking distance of the city centre, shopping precincts, and cultural attractions. For location-specific study context, see our 'Study in ACT' page for more details.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition fees, living costs, OSHC, and dependants' costs if applicable), and obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a PhD student, you may be eligible for a longer visa duration. Your visa conditions will include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and notify ANU of any change of address. For detailed guidance, refer to our Student Visa Subclass 500 page. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for advice on your specific situation.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology at Australian National University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Psychology), and city (Canberra) using the CRICOS register. ANU is a top-ranked government university with CRICOS 00120C.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check ANU's entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English test results (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0). Submit your application by the deadline (usually two intakes per year, February and July).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once ANU offers you a place, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your student visa online via ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore more doctoral degrees in psychology or contact ANU directly. Browse all CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
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Doctor of Philosophy, Psychology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National 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.