Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 079808G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered program, it qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and is protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. RMIT, a government-owned university, has been a leading provider of higher education in Melbourne for over 130 years. The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) allows students to undertake original research under expert supervision, contributing new knowledge to the field of law. With Melbourne consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, this program offers an excellent environment for advanced study. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no referral fees—providing accurate CRICOS data to help you make informed decisions.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Law) (CRICOS course code 079808G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' with a focus on '0909 - Law' and more specifically '090900 - Law, n.f.d.'. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it represents the highest level of academic study in Australia. The program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in legal studies, culminating in a thesis that makes a significant original contribution to the field. RMIT is a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A) and a government-owned university, ensuring quality and accountability. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, which guarantee refund policies, complaints processes, and provider obligations. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, this degree stands out as a prestigious option for those seeking to become experts in law.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is a research-intensive program where students develop a deep understanding of legal theories, methodologies, and contemporary issues. Under the guidance of experienced supervisors, you will formulate a research proposal, conduct independent research, and produce a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. The field of study encompasses broad areas such as legal philosophy, comparative law, human rights law, commercial law, and constitutional law. Graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate intellectual independence, critical analysis, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. While specific syllabi vary by candidate, all PhD students undergo a confirmation of candidature process and annual progress reviews. RMIT's law faculty is known for its research strengths in areas like international law, property law, and legal education. This program does not include coursework; it is purely research-based, allowing you to tailor your study to your interests.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. This is a typical duration for a Doctoral Degree in Australia, though actual completion times may vary. The course is delivered in English, the language of instruction, and is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree). There is no foundation studies component nor VET national code. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at RMIT's Melbourne city campus. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are generally required to maintain full-time enrollment to comply with visa conditions. The program is designed to be completed within the standard timeframe, with extensions available under certain circumstances. For precise details about study modes and attendance patterns, prospective students should consult RMIT directly.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is A$165,120, with non-tuition fees of A$1,492, giving an estimated total of A$166,612. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, visa application charges, or other personal expenses. For example, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$600–700 per year, and living costs in Melbourne (rent, groceries, transport) are estimated at A$30,000–35,000 annually. Always confirm current fees with RMIT before applying, as they are subject to change. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy does not collect referral fees; we recommend checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date figures.
Entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) typically include a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as law, legal studies, or a related discipline. Some applicants may hold a master's degree with a research component. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency; the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent test scores). RMIT may also consider relevant professional experience. There are no foundation or pathway programs specifically for this course, but RMIT offers pre-candidature bridging programs in some cases. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive and subject to supervisor availability. Always refer to RMIT's official website for the most accurate entry criteria. For visa purposes, you will need to satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and show financial capacity.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience in Melbourne's legal sector while studying. Many PhD candidates also undertake tutoring or research assistant roles within the university. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must not compromise your study schedule. For more details on student work rights, see our Student visa page.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is delivered at RMIT University's main campus: 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. This campus is located in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, close to transport hubs like Melbourne Central Station and Flinders Street Station. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering law-related courses. The city offers a vibrant legal community with proximity to the Supreme Court of Victoria, the County Court, and numerous law firms. Living costs in Melbourne for a single student are around A$450–600 per week for rent, plus A$100–150 for groceries and transport. The campus is easily accessible by tram, train, and bus. For students seeking a dynamic urban environment with strong academic support, RMIT's Melbourne location is ideal.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (up to 5 years typically). Conditions include maintaining enrollment, satisfactory course progress, and adequate health insurance (OSHC). To apply, you must first receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT. The visa also permits work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. You must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions and sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs (A$29,710 per year as of 2026), and travel. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for guidance. ESOS laws protect your rights as an international student, including tuition refunds for provider default.
To apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Law) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Society and Culture – Law), and city (Melbourne). Confirm that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) is the right fit for you.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and referee reports. Check RMIT's website for application deadlines and submit through their online portal. Some PhD applicants may need to identify a supervisor before applying.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, RMIT will issue your CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you through the research phase—apply directly to RMIT for the best outcome.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students. With over 200,000 students from around the world, it offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a thriving arts and food scene. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent for a student share house averaging A$250–400. RMIT's city campus is central, giving you access to libraries, courts, and legal networks. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider regional campuses, but Melbourne's opportunities for PhD students—conferences, networking, part-time work—are unmatched. Think about your research interests: RMIT has strong ties to industry and government, which can benefit law PhD candidates. Visit our 'Study in Victoria' page for more details on state-specific advantages.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to explore more Doctoral Degrees in Victoria, then apply directly to RMIT.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Law) 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.