Doctor of Education (CRICOS course code 075084D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Central Queensland University over 4 years (208 weeks). This course is designed for experienced educators seeking to deepen their research skills and contribute to educational practice and policy. As a research-intensive program, it prepares graduates for leadership roles in education, academia, and policy development. The course is delivered across multiple CQUniversity campuses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Mackay, and Melbourne, offering flexibility for international students. With an indicative tuition fee of A$130,944, this fully English-taught program does not include a work component. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). This comprehensive guide covers fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways to help you make an informed decision.
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The Doctor of Education (075084D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) registered with CRICOS, the official Australian government register for courses offered to international students. This program falls under the field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070100 - Teacher Education, n.f.c.), reflecting its focus on advanced study of teaching, learning, and educational systems. Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) delivers this course in English over 4 years (208 weeks). As a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies, it is tailored for professionals aiming to conduct original research and contribute to knowledge in education. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may undertake voluntary work or research placements. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this course is one of many options for international students seeking high-quality doctoral studies. The ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded.
As a Doctoral Degree, the Doctor of Education focuses on developing advanced research skills and theoretical knowledge in education. Students typically engage in independent research, culminating in a thesis that makes a significant original contribution to the field. Areas of study may include educational leadership, curriculum development, educational policy, pedagogy, and assessment. The program emphasizes critical analysis, research methodology, and the application of theory to practical educational challenges. Graduates are prepared for roles in universities, research institutions, government education departments, and educational consulting. While specific syllabus details are determined by the provider, the course aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 10) standards for doctoral study. Students are expected to demonstrate high-level writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills, and to contribute to scholarly discourse through publications and presentations. This research-driven pathway is ideal for those committed to advancing education in Australia and globally.
The Doctor of Education is offered as a full-time course with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the program is a single qualification—no dual awards or combined degrees are available. Foundation studies are not included, but students may need to meet English language and academic prerequisites before admission. The course structure typically involves coursework and research components, with the research thesis being the major assessment. Students are expected to engage in on-campus learning at one of the delivery locations, though some components may be available online at the provider's discretion. It is important to confirm the exact study mode (e.g., face-to-face, blended) with Central Queensland University, as CRICOS registration indicates the course is offered to international students on a student visa. The 208-week duration allows for deep immersion in research and scholarly activities.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Education is A$130,944 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees are reported as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$130,944. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (including rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge are NOT included in this estimate. For current and accurate fee information, always check the provider's website (www.cqu.edu.au) directly. Fees are subject to change, and you should factor in annual adjustments. As a guide, living costs in Australian cities vary: Adelaide and Brisbane may be more affordable than Melbourne or Sydney. The Department of Home Affairs recommends at least A$21,041 per year for living expenses (from October 2024). Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs before applying for a student visa.
Entry to a Doctor of Education typically requires a master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field, along with a strong research proposal and evidence of research capability. English language proficiency is essential; an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0-6.5) is commonly required, though specific requirements should be confirmed with Central Queensland University. Other English tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Some institutions may require prior teaching experience or a postgraduate degree in education. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this doctoral level; however, you may consider a research master’s as a stepping stone. Always refer to the provider's official admissions page for precise entry requirements. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and provide evidence of English proficiency and financial capacity.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no work placement, internship, or professional experience requirement embedded in the Doctor of Education program as per the CRICOS registration. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken is voluntary and not part of the course assessment. If you seek practical experience in educational settings, you may explore opportunities independently. Remember that work rights are tied to your visa and cannot exceed the permitted hours. The absence of a compulsory work component means your focus should be on research and coursework. Always check the visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs.
The Doctor of Education is delivered at the following CQUniversity campuses: Adelaide C.Q.U. Campus (Wayville, SA), Brisbane C.Q.U. Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Bundaberg C.Q.U. Campus (Bundaberg, QLD), Gladstone C.Q.U. Campus (Gladstone, QLD), Mackay C.Q.U. Campus (Mackay, QLD), and Melbourne C.Q.U Campus (Melbourne, VIC). Each location offers a unique study environment. Adelaide and Brisbane are major cities with a high concentration of international students; Adelaide has over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers, while Brisbane hosts more than 1,200. Living costs in Brisbane are around A$450-600 per week for rent, whereas Adelaide is slightly more affordable at A$350-500 per week. Melbourne is Australia’s largest student city, with weekly rent averaging A$500-700. Regional campuses like Bundaberg, Gladstone, and Mackay offer lower living costs and a quieter lifestyle. Public transport is accessible at all locations, with discounts for international students in some states. The choice of campus may affect your study experience and living expenses.
To study the Doctor of Education as an international student in Australia, you must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) intention, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. You must also meet English language requirements and health criteria. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (as of 2025, subject to change). The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personal visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Central Queensland University is essential for the visa application.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Education at Central Queensland University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Education), and city. Confirm that Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is the right fit for your research interests.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit CQUniversity's website (www.cqu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English language evidence. Submit your application online.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, CQUniversity will issue your CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC, funds, and meet GTE requirements. Check processing times (typically 4-8 weeks). For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your Doctor of Education journey? Explore more courses or contact Central Queensland University directly.
Doctor of Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland 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.