Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) (CRICOS course code 079689J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to make a significant contribution to biomedical science through original research. Graduates emerge with advanced skills in human biology, research methodology, and critical analysis, preparing them for careers in academia, research institutes, or the biotechnology industry. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, commonly known as RMIT, is a public Australian university with a strong reputation in science and technology. Bundoora Campus, where this program is delivered, offers state-of-the-art laboratories and a vibrant research community.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) (CRICOS course code 079689J) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This program falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (01), specifically Biological Sciences (0109) with a focus on Human Biology (010913). It is a high-level research degree that requires students to conduct independent, original research culminating in a thesis. The course is registered on CRICOS, the official Australian Government register, ensuring that international students receive the protections of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. RMIT is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering access to world-class education and research opportunities. This PhD program is ideal for those seeking to advance knowledge in biomedical science and pursue careers in healthcare, research, or academia.
As a PhD candidate, you will engage in supervised research that contributes new knowledge to the field of human biology. The program typically involves coursework in research methodology, ethics, and advanced biomedical topics, followed by a major research project. You will develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation. The field of human biology encompasses areas such as genetics, physiology, immunology, and neuroscience, allowing you to tailor your research to your interests. Graduates of doctoral programs at RMIT are expected to demonstrate intellectual independence, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. While the specific curriculum may vary based on your supervisor and project, the structured support from RMIT's research training framework ensures a comprehensive educational experience.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) is a full-time program with a standard duration of 4 years (208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to be based at the Bundoora campus, where they will have access to supervision, laboratory facilities, and research support. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The program is delivered through a combination of supervised research, seminars, and professional development activities.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$165,120, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$166,612. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. Please note that fees are subject to change, and you should confirm the current fees directly with RMIT. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For OSHC, international students are required to maintain health insurance for the duration of their visa, which costs approximately A$500-700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$1,200-1,500 per month for accommodation, food, and transport. Always check the provider's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
Entry into a PhD program at RMIT typically requires a Master's degree with a significant research component, or a Bachelor's degree with first-class honours or equivalent. Evidence of research capability is essential. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, with an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall (no band below 6.0-6.5) or equivalent. Specific requirements may vary, so you should consult the official entry criteria on RMIT's website. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this level, but some students may qualify for a pre-Masters or research preparation program. Note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as supervision availability and project alignment also play a key role.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a PhD student, you may have opportunities for casual research assistant work or tutoring within the university, subject to visa work restrictions (see student visa section). The absence of a compulsory work component means the program focuses entirely on research and academic development.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) is delivered at RMIT's Bundoora Campus, located at Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083. Bundoora is a northern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 16 km from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including tram line 86 and bus routes, making it accessible for students. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community, with estimated 250,000 international students across Victoria. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200-300, groceries A$60-100, and transport A$30-50. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse food options, and excellent healthcare services.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Note that visa decisions are at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs; HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for current requirements.
Victoria is a leading study destination in Australia, with Melbourne consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities. The state has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, including prestigious universities like RMIT, the University of Melbourne, and Monash University. International students benefit from a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and strong student support services. The cost of living in Melbourne is slightly higher than other Australian cities but is compensated by the quality of life. Victoria's climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons. Studying at RMIT's Bundoora Campus places you in a research-intensive environment with proximity to Melbourne's biomedical hubs, including the Parkville precinct. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive the education you paid for, and all CRICOS-registered providers must meet rigorous standards.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) and this course (079689J) are registered. Filter by doctoral level, biomedical science field, and location (Victoria). Check RMIT's website for supervisor profiles and research areas.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your application including academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and letters of recommendation. Submit through RMIT's online application portal. Pay attention to application deadlines – many PhD programs have rolling intakes but may have specific rounds.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and demonstrate sufficient funds. Check the student visa work rights and conditions to plan your stay.
Ready to apply? Explore CRICOS-registered PhD programs in biomedical science using the search tool above, or contact RMIT directly for application details.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Science) 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.