Doctor of Philosophy (Economics, Finance & Marketing) (CRICOS course code 079802B) 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 the fields of banking, finance, economics, and marketing. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. At HeadStart Academy, we source data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a world-class study destination. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways to help you make an informed decision.
This Doctor of Philosophy falls under the field of Banking and Finance (081101), within the broader Management and Commerce discipline. Doctoral candidates engage in original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates typically develop advanced skills in quantitative analysis, economic theory, financial modelling, and marketing strategy. The program emphasises independent critical thinking, research methodology, and scholarly writing. While the specific syllabus is set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, doctoral degrees at this level prepare students for academic roles, senior research positions, and leadership in industry or government. As a CRICOS-registered course, it must meet national quality standards. Melbourne, with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community of more than 200,000, offers a rich research environment.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Economics, Finance & Marketing) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English, the sole language of instruction. This is a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies are offered. The course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education doctoral program. Full-time study is typical, and no mandatory work component is included. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). RMIT’s main campus is located at 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, easily accessible by public transport from most suburbs.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are: tuition A$165,120, non-tuition fees A$1,492, estimated total A$166,612. These figures are set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly on the RMIT website. The estimated total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for all student visa holders and typically costs A$500–700 per year. Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Use the Cost of Living Calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website for a tailored estimate.
General entry requirements for this Doctoral Degree include an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to hold a prior qualification such as a Master’s degree (by research or coursework) with a significant research component, or a Bachelor’s degree with honours (AQF Level 8). Specific academic prerequisites and research experience are assessed by RMIT. Foundation or pathway options are not typical for doctoral programs; however, some students may complete a research master’s or graduate diploma before progressing. Note that HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only — consult RMIT for precise requirements and deadlines. All CRICOS-registered providers must publish genuine entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (Economics, Finance & Marketing) is a research-intensive program, and no internship, placement, or industry experience is required for completion. However, 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. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and should not interfere with study commitments. Graduates may explore post-study work rights through the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) after course completion.
This course is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, in the state of Victoria. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a major international education hub, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. The central location offers excellent public transport connections via trains, trams, and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$450–600 per week for shared accommodation, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$40–60 for public transport. With a diverse cultural scene and strong research infrastructure, Melbourne is an attractive destination for doctoral studies. The city also has a high concentration of banks, financial institutions, and marketing firms, providing networking opportunities.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT, sufficient English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and evidence of financial capacity. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions may vary — always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance. The ESOS Act protects international students’ rights, including tuition refunds and course changes.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy (Economics, Finance & Marketing) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology involves three key steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by doctoral level (AQF Level 10), field (Banking and Finance), and location (Melbourne). Compare providers like RMIT, which is CRICOS 00122A.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit the RMIT website to review specific entry requirements, including English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), prior qualifications, and research proposal. Submit your application by the deadline, typically with transcripts and academic references.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence. Allow 4–6 weeks for processing.
Choosing to pursue a PhD is a significant commitment. Before deciding, consider: your research interests (e.g., banking regulation, behavioural finance, or marketing analytics), the supervision expertise available at RMIT, and your long-term career goals. Doctoral programs typically require full-time dedication, though some universities allow part-time options for domestic students. Melbourne offers a strong research ecosystem with libraries, data labs, and industry partnerships. Living costs are manageable with part-time work permitted on a student visa. Remember to factor in OSHC and visa renewal fees. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to compare CRICOS-registered courses — no commission, no referral fees. Always verify current fees and requirements directly with the provider.
Start your application today by researching CRICOS-registered providers or contact Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology directly for current fees and deadlines.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Economics, Finance & Marketing) 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.