Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 076976D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 4 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to make a significant original contribution to knowledge in their chosen field. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students seeking to study in Australia under a Student visa (Subclass 500). Located in Queensland, the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) offers multiple campuses including Caboolture, Fraser Coast, Gympie, Moreton Bay, and Sippy Downs. The Doctor of Philosophy falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically in Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (129999). International students are attracted to this program for its flexibility, world-class supervision, and the opportunity to study in Australia’s vibrant research environment. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD is one of many options available through the CRICOS register. HeadStart Academy brings you this information directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 076976D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS provider 01595D) over a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). This program is classified under Field of Education 12 – Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 129999 Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. As a research doctorate, students are expected to undertake original research under the supervision of experienced academics, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. The course is delivered in English across multiple UniSC campuses in Queensland: Caboolture, Fraser Coast, Gympie, Moreton Bay, and Sunshine Coast (Sippy Downs). Being CRICOS-registered means this course meets Australian Government standards for international student education, providing access to ESOS Act protections. Prospective students should note that this is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component.
As a Doctor of Philosophy candidate, you will engage in advanced research training, typically involving coursework in research methods, literature review, data collection and analysis, and thesis writing. While the specific research topic is determined by the student in consultation with their supervisory team, the degree aims to develop high-level skills in critical thinking, independent inquiry, and scholarly communication. Graduates at this level are expected to make an original and significant contribution to knowledge, demonstrating mastery of their chosen field. The field of Mixed Field Programmes allows for interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary research, which can be tailored to the student's interests. It is important to note that this description is a general guide; for exact curriculum details, prospective students should contact the University of the Sunshine Coast directly.
The Doctor of Philosophy is recorded on the CRICOS register as a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. There is no optional work component integrated into the course structure. Students are expected to dedicate themselves to intensive research throughout the duration. While the CRICOS register indicates a fixed duration, actual completion times can vary depending on the research progress and individual circumstances. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$97,500, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$97,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Living costs in Queensland vary by location; for example, in the Sunshine Coast region, weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment may range from A$350 to A$450, with groceries and transport adding around A$150–A$200 per week. Always confirm current fees directly with the University of the Sunshine Coast at www.usc.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy provides these estimates as a guide only – fees are set by the institution and may increase annually.
Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (at least IIA level) or a master's degree with a significant research component. English language proficiency is essential, with a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) commonly required. Additional requirements may include a research proposal, referee reports, and an interview. This course does not include foundation studies, but applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider pathway programs offered by UniSC or other CRICOS-registered providers. Admission decisions are at the discretion of the University of the Sunshine Coast. It is crucial to check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements can vary by research area.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While research activities may involve fieldwork or collaboration with industry partners, such engagement is not classified as a formal work component on the CRICOS register. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken is separate from the course requirements and should not interfere with academic progress.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at five campuses of the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland: UniSC Caboolture (Caboolture), UniSC Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay), UniSC Gympie (Gympie), UniSC Moreton Bay (Petrie), and UniSC Sunshine Coast (Sippy Downs). Each campus offers a unique study environment. Caboolture is a growing regional centre with easy train access to Brisbane. Hervey Bay is known for its coastal lifestyle and access to Fraser Island. Gympie is a historic gold mining town. Petrie (Moreton Bay) is near Brisbane’s northern suburbs. Sippy Downs is the main campus, located in the Sunshine Coast region, a popular destination for international students due to its beaches and outdoor lifestyle. The Sunshine Coast has several CRICOS-registered providers, and the region is known for its high quality of life. Public transport connects campuses via train and bus networks, making commuting feasible.
International students enrolling in this Doctor of Philosophy require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living expenses, and OSHC. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements, and they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Embarking on a PhD is a significant commitment. Consider the following: research supervision – ensure there are faculty members with expertise in your area of interest. Funding – besides tuition, factor in living costs, which in Queensland can range from A$1,500 to A$2,000 per month. Location – think about lifestyle preferences; the Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed environment but may have fewer employment opportunities for partners. Career outcomes – a PhD can lead to academic, research, or industry roles, but it’s important to understand the market. Also, be aware of the ESOS Act protections that safeguard your rights as an international student. Use the CRICOS register to verify the provider’s registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is here to help you navigate these decisions with reliable data.
Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy at University of the Sunshine Coast involves three key steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers by filtering by course level (Doctoral Degree) and field (Mixed Field Programmes). Use the CRICOS register to verify provider details. Second, apply directly to the University of the Sunshine Coast. Check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, arrange English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and meet application deadlines. Submit your application through the university’s online portal. Third, upon receiving a Letter of Offer and accepting it, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of financial capacity. HeadStart Academy provides this guidance; always follow official instructions.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore the University of the Sunshine Coast's Doctor of Philosophy program today.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.