Doctor of Philosophy (Art) (CRICOS course code 079810B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This program, offered at RMIT's Melbourne campus, is designed for students seeking to make a significant contribution to knowledge in the visual arts and crafts. As a CRICOS-registered course (RMIT CRICOS 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study options using data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you're drawn to Melbourne's vibrant arts scene or RMIT's research reputation, this course provides a pathway to advanced academic and professional careers. The indicative tuition fee is A$161,280, with non-tuition costs of A$1,492. Note that these figures are indicative and subject to change — always confirm with RMIT. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, and we're here to help you choose the right one.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Doctor of Philosophy (Art) (CRICOS course code 079810B) is a Doctoral Degree at AQF Level 10, delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). This course falls under the field of Fine Arts (100301) within Creative Arts. It is designed for international students seeking to undertake original research in art practice, theory, or history. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. RMIT is a government-owned university with a strong reputation in art and design. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A), RMIT is bound by the ESOS Act, offering legal protections to international students. This program is a single qualification, not a dual degree, and does not include a mandatory work component. Delivery is face-to-face at RMIT's Melbourne campus at 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000.
As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), the Doctor of Philosophy (Art) requires students to undertake a substantial piece of original research. Graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of a complex field of learning, and the ability to develop new knowledge through research and inquiry. In the field of Fine Arts, this typically involves producing a body of creative work accompanied by a written thesis that contextualises and analyses the creative practice. Students develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly communication. While specific curriculum details are set by RMIT, the CRICOS register confirms the course structure as a 4-year full-time program. For precise subject offerings, please refer to the provider's website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; always check with the institution for the latest syllabus.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy (Art) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it is not a dual degree. The course does not include foundation studies or a VET national code. RMIT offers this program on a full-time basis at its Melbourne campus. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are expected to maintain full-time enrolment. The duration is indicative and may vary based on research progress, but CRICOS lists 208 weeks as the standard. For part-time options or extensions, contact RMIT directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Art) at RMIT is A$161,280 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,492, giving an estimated total of A$162,772. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–700 per week in Melbourne for rent, groceries, and transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). Always confirm current fees directly with RMIT at www.rmit.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not collect referral fees. Remember that fee changes may occur, and you should budget accordingly.
For Doctor of Philosophy (Art), applicants typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency with an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications expected include a Master's degree in a relevant field, or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) demonstrating research capability. Some providers may accept a Bachelor's degree with substantial professional experience. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this level; however, RMIT may provide pre-PhD preparation programs — refer to the provider for details. Entry requirements are set by RMIT and subject to change. International students should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity for the student visa.
This course has no mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (Art) is research-focused and does not include a practicum or industry placement. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. RMIT may offer optional research internships or teaching opportunities, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered program. Always check your visa conditions regarding work rights.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Art) is delivered at RMIT University's Melbourne campus located at 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant student population of more than 250,000 international students. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all fields. Living costs in Melbourne average A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. The city is known for its arts and culture scene, making it an ideal location for studying Fine Arts. For other delivery locations, RMIT may have additional campuses — check the provider's website.
International students studying Doctor of Philosophy (Art) in Australia require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. As a PhD student, you may have additional work rights — generally up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa application includes a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC (approximately A$500–700 per year). For accurate visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Creative Arts), and location (Melbourne). Confirm that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) offers the Doctor of Philosophy (Art) with code 079810B. Check the provider's website for detailed research areas and supervisor availability. 2. **Apply directly to RMIT** – Submit an online application via RMIT's admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, CV, and referee reports. Application deadlines vary — check with RMIT. Some programs require an interview. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once RMIT issues your CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong arts and culture scene that supports study in Fine Arts. The city has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,000 courses for international students. Melbourne's public transport network (trams, trains, buses) makes commuting easy. Estimated weekly living costs: rent A$300–500, groceries A$80–150, transport A$40–50. The student community is diverse, with many international student support services. However, consider that living in Melbourne can be expensive compared to other Australian cities. For a Doctoral Degree, you'll need access to research facilities and networks — RMIT's campus is well-equipped. Think about your preferences for climate, culture, and lifestyle. HeadStart Academy provides data to help you decide, but we recommend visiting Melbourne or connecting with current students.
Start your journey — explore Doctor of Philosophy (Art) at RMIT on HeadStart Academy today!
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Art) 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.