Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences (CRICOS course code 079009E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students pursuing advanced research in the field of Society and Culture, specifically under the broad category '0900 - Society and Culture'. UNSW, a prestigious government-funded university (CRICOS 00098G), offers this course at its Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. Indicative total fees for international students are A$184,000, comprising A$180,000 tuition and A$4,000 non-tuition costs. This page provides comprehensive details on the course structure, entry requirements, fees, visa implications, and application process, helping you make an informed decision about your doctoral studies in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences (CRICOS course code 079009E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years (208 weeks). The field of education is Society and Culture (Broad Field 09), specifically under the narrow field '0900 - Society and Culture, n.f.d.' This means the PhD is a broad research degree in social sciences, allowing candidates to explore interdisciplinary topics within society and culture. UNSW is a leading Australian university with a strong research output, and this program is CRICOS-registered (00098G), ensuring it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. The language of instruction is English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. As a research doctorate, students are expected to produce a substantial thesis contributing original knowledge to their field.
As a Doctor of Philosophy candidate in Social Sciences, you will undertake advanced independent research under the supervision of academic experts. The program typically involves coursework in research methods and ethics, followed by the development and execution of a research proposal. The focus is on original research that advances understanding in areas such as sociology, anthropology, political science, economics, or cultural studies. Graduates develop high-level skills in critical analysis, data collection and interpretation, scholarly writing, and project management. This degree prepares you for careers in academia, research institutes, government, and non-profit organisations. The specific syllabus is determined by your research topic and supervisory panel, so you are encouraged to align your project with UNSW's research strengths in social sciences.
The Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences has a CRICOS-registered duration of 4 years (208 weeks). It is offered in full-time study mode, and the language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning it is not part of a dual degree or combined program. No foundation studies are required as part of this course. Students are expected to dedicate themselves to research full-time, with periodic progress reviews. The program structure includes milestones such as confirmation of candidature and thesis submission. UNSW may allow part-time enrolment under specific circumstances, but the standard duration for international students on a Student visa is 4 years full-time.
The tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences is A$180,000 indicative for the entire program, as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees, which may include materials, library access, and student services, are A$4,000, bringing the indicative total to A$184,000. Please note: these fees are indicative and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW. Not included in this total are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–$700 per year), living costs in Sydney (estimated A$25,000–$30,000 per year for a single student), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). For the most accurate financial planning, visit UNSW's international fees page.
Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences typically requires a Bachelor's degree with honours (Class I or IIA) or a Master's degree by research in a relevant field. Applicants must demonstrate strong research potential and a well-defined research proposal. English language proficiency is required; UNSW generally accepts IELTS scores of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. For those who do not meet the direct entry requirements, UNSW may offer pathway options such as a Graduate Diploma or Master's by coursework with a research component. However, this particular course does not include foundation studies. Always check UNSW's official admissions page for the most up-to-date requirements. Note that meeting minimum entry criteria does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences is a research-only program without a structured internship, practicum, or work placement. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work must not interfere with your study commitments. Many PhD candidates undertake casual tutoring or research assistance roles at the university, but this is not part of the course requirements.
The Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington campus, located in the Sydney suburb of Kensington, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student community. The city hosts more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including several major universities. Living costs in Sydney are relatively high, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the city averaging $500–$700, groceries around $80–$120, and public transport costs approximately $40–$50 per week. The Kensington campus is well-connected by bus and light rail, with easy access to the city centre and beaches. For students considering location, Sydney offers a multicultural environment, strong job market, and excellent research infrastructure.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and meeting English language proficiency. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing your PhD, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised guidance.
Sydney is a popular destination for doctoral students due to its world-class universities, research opportunities, and lifestyle. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering 26,433 courses, Sydney alone has a high concentration of research-intensive institutions. The cost of living is higher than in other Australian cities, but the city offers extensive public transport, cultural attractions, and a strong job market for graduates. For social sciences researchers, Sydney provides access to diverse communities, government agencies, and think tanks. However, consider your budget and research network when choosing a location. UNSW Kensington is in a prime location, close to the city and with excellent facilities. If you value a supportive environment for doctoral study, Sydney is a compelling choice.
Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences at The University of New South Wales involves three key steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (UNSW is 00098G). 2) Apply directly to UNSW – prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, and evidence of English proficiency. Check UNSW's application deadlines (typically two intakes: February and July). If you have a potential supervisor, contact them beforehand. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once UNSW offers you a place and you accept, they will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements. Good luck!
Ready to take the next step? Explore your research topic and contact UNSW's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences to discuss your proposal.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.