Doctor of Philosophy (Non Lab Based Science) (Extended) (CRICOS course code 072439F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 4 years. This course is designed for international students seeking advanced research skills in non-lab-based sciences, such as theoretical physics, mathematics, or computational sciences. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00005F), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. CSU is a public university with campuses across regional New South Wales, offering a supportive environment for doctoral candidates. With indicative fees of A$159,360 for tuition, this extended program allows for deeper exploration of research topics. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy (Non Lab Based Science) (Extended) (CRICOS course code 072439F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 4 years. This course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (other), focusing on non-laboratory-based scientific inquiry. Students develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to contribute original knowledge. The extended duration allows for additional depth in research, ideal for complex projects. CSU is a government-funded university with multiple campuses in NSW, providing access to libraries, research hubs, and academic supervision. This program is open to international students and is fully CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education quality standards.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Non Lab Based Science) (Extended) focuses on advanced research in areas that do not require traditional laboratory work, such as theoretical physics, mathematics, statistics, computational science, environmental modeling, or social science research with a physical science basis. At this AQF Level 10, you will undertake a substantial research project leading to a thesis. You will learn to design and execute independent research, analyze complex data, and communicate findings to academic and non-academic audiences. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical research practices. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutes, government agencies, or industry R&D.
This course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is offered on a full-time basis, with instruction in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The program is a single Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10). Students are expected to engage in regular supervision and may have access to online resources. The extended duration allows for more comprehensive research, especially for projects that require iterative analysis or large datasets. CSU supports flexible study arrangements, but international students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$159,360, with non-tuition fees of A$1,472, giving an estimated total of A$160,832. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500) are not included. For the most current fees, always check the Charles Sturt University website. HeadStart Academy provides this as a guide only; fees are set by institutions and may increase annually.
International students typically need a strong academic background in a relevant field (e.g., a Master's degree or Honours with research component) and English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall. Some programs may require a research proposal or supervisor agreement. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this level; applicants should contact CSU directly for specific prerequisites. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for detailed entry criteria. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is not a requirement for completion of this degree.
This course is delivered at multiple Charles Sturt University campuses in regional New South Wales: Albury-Thurgoona, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie (7 Major Innes Road) and Wagga Wagga. All locations are regional centres with access to university facilities, libraries, and transport links. For example, Wagga Wagga has a strong student community and lower living costs than Sydney. According to the CRICOS register, each campus offers this specific course. Students should consider proximity to accommodation, public transport, and research resources when choosing a campus.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), evidence of financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), English proficiency, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Non Lab Based Science) (Extended) at Charles Sturt University (CSU):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (NSW). Confirm that Charles Sturt University (CSU) is CRICOS-registered (00005F) and that this course (072439F) meets your interests.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the CSU website for application forms, entry requirements (including English test scores), and deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and evidence of supervision arrangement. Some programs may require an interview.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once CSU issues your CoE, lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide your CoE, OSHC confirmation, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply early.
A PhD in non-lab sciences requires strong self-motivation and research independence, as most work is desk-based. Consider whether you have access to necessary computational resources, library databases, and supervision. Regional campuses offer a quieter environment but may have fewer networking opportunities than city-based universities. Living costs in regional NSW are lower: for example, weekly rent in Wagga Wagga averages A$150-200, compared to Sydney's A$300-500. Public transport is available but less frequent. Also, think about career outcomes: non-lab science PhDs often lead to academic or research positions. Use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses across providers.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Non Lab Based Science) (Extended) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Sturt University (CSU). 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.