Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Biology & Biotechnology) (CRICOS course code 079683D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in biological sciences, focusing on applied biology and biotechnology. RMIT, a government-funded university with CRICOS registration 00122A, offers this doctoral degree across two campuses in Victoria: Bundoora and Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered provider, RMIT is authorised to enrol international students, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and Australian quality standards. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa guidance for prospective applicants.
This doctoral degree falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01) and specifically Biological Sciences (narrow field 0109). While the exact curriculum is shaped by your research topic, graduates at this level typically develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to contribute original knowledge to the field of applied biology and biotechnology. You will engage in independent research under supervision, culminating in a thesis. Expected outcomes include expertise in areas such as molecular biology, genetic engineering, bioprocessing, or environmental biotechnology, depending on your chosen specialisation. This course is not a dual qualification and does not include a work component.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification – no foundation studies or VET components are attached. Study mode is typically full-time, and overseas students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa conditions. If you require a part-time option, you must discuss with RMIT and the Department of Home Affairs, as visa conditions usually require full-time study.
The indicative tuition fee for this doctoral program is A$168,960, with non-tuition fees of A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$170,452. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with RMIT before applying. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For up-to-date fee information, visit the RMIT website at www.rmit.edu.au. As a guide, international students in Melbourne should budget for living costs of approximately A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, including rent, food, and transport.
General entry requirements for this Doctoral Degree include an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), although specific bands may vary. You are expected to hold a prior qualification equivalent to an Australian master's degree (research) or a bachelor's degree with honours in a relevant field. Some applicants may enter via a pathway program – refer to RMIT for specific admission criteria. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; you must meet the provider's standards. Always check the official RMIT website for the most current entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a doctoral student, you may have opportunities for casual teaching or research assistant roles, but these are not guaranteed or part of the curriculum. 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.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Biology & Biotechnology) is delivered at two RMIT campuses in Victoria: Bundoora Campus (Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083) and RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both campuses are in metropolitan Melbourne, which is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers. The Melbourne campus is in the city centre with excellent tram and train access, while Bundoora Campus is in the northern suburbs, serviced by bus and tram. Living costs in Melbourne vary: weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$200–A$300, groceries around A$80–A$150, and a public transport monthly pass about A$150. These figures are indicative only.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing your degree, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) for post-study work. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
A doctoral degree is a significant commitment. Before applying, consider your research interests – does the field of applied biology and biotechnology align with your career goals? RMIT has strong industry connections in biotechnology and biomedical research, which can enhance your project opportunities. Melbourne is a hub for life sciences, with major research institutes and biotech companies. Also factor in the financial cost: A$168,960 tuition plus living expenses over 4 years. Ensure you have a clear research proposal and potential supervisor. As an international student, you are protected by the ESOS Act, which guarantees quality education and consumer protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource – always verify details with the provider.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Biology & Biotechnology) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter doctoral courses in Applied Biology & Biotechnology. Confirm that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) offers the program and that it meets your research interests.
2. Apply directly to RMIT – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, and referee reports. Check RMIT's application deadlines and submit through their online portal. You may need to identify a potential supervisor before applying.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once RMIT offers you a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. For visa assistance, see a registered MARA agent.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to RMIT for this doctoral program.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Biology & Biotechnology) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.