Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) (CRICOS course code 079818E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program prepares graduates for advanced research careers in environmental engineering, focusing on sustainable solutions for complex environmental challenges. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00122A), it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work in academia, industry, or government, this PhD offers a pathway to becoming a leader in the field. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study options from the official CRICOS register—no commissions, just data-driven guidance.
Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) (CRICOS course code 079818E) 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 original research in environmental engineering. The field of education is 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 039901 - Environmental Engineering. Graduates typically develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to contribute new knowledge to the field. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international education. RMIT, a public university with a strong research focus, offers this program at its campuses in Bundoora and Melbourne, Victoria.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) focuses on independent research under the supervision of academic experts. Students typically engage in literature reviews, experimental design, data analysis, and thesis writing. The field covers topics such as water and wastewater treatment, air pollution control, solid waste management, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable engineering practices. At the doctoral level, students are expected to make a significant original contribution to knowledge. While specific syllabus details are set by RMIT, the program generally includes research methodology training, seminars, and periodic progress reviews. Graduates are prepared for careers in research institutions, universities, government agencies, and environmental consulting firms.
The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, on-campus program with instruction in English. It is a single qualification—no dual degree or foundation studies component. Students are expected to dedicate themselves to their research project, with periodic check-ins and milestones. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is essential. The program does not include a work component, but students may seek part-time work under their student visa conditions (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term). RMIT offers flexible study arrangements; however, the CRICOS registration reflects the standard duration for international students on a student visa.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) is A$180,480 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,492, bringing the total estimated cost to A$181,972. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (including rent, food, and transport), and the visa application charge. RMIT's Bundoora and Melbourne campuses are in Victoria, where living costs are higher than the national average—expect weekly rent of A$250–500 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$80–150, and public transport about A$40–60. Always check the current fees on the RMIT website (www.rmit.edu.au) before applying.
Entry to a Doctoral Degree typically requires a Master's degree (by research) or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) in a related field. For this course, an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 is a common requirement, with no band below 6.0 (exact requirements vary by institution). RMIT may also consider relevant research experience or publications. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for a PhD, but applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds may need to demonstrate English proficiency. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. We recommend checking RMIT's official entry requirements and contacting the university for personalised guidance.
No work component — This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs, but it should not interfere with the intensive research demands of a PhD. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to support services. For more details on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at two RMIT campuses in Victoria: (1) Bundoora Campus, Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083 — located in Melbourne's northern suburbs, accessible by tram and bus; and (2) RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne — in the heart of the city, near public transport hubs. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate but can vary by suburb. Both campuses offer research facilities, libraries, and student support services. Choose based on your preference for suburban vs. urban setting.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. The visa requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and satisfaction of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory; costs vary but typically range from A$500–700 per year. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but not migration advice—consult a registered MARA agent for your specific case.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and excellent public transport. It hosts a large international student community, with over 200,000 students from around the world. The city is home to multiple world-class universities, including RMIT, which has strong industry connections. However, living costs can be high—budget around A$2,000–3,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Bundoora offers a quieter, suburban environment, while the city campus is close to cafes, libraries, and networking events. For environmental engineering, Melbourne's focus on sustainability and innovation provides ample research opportunities.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) — use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — ensure you meet entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts, research proposal) and note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — provide proof of funds, OSHC, and meet GTE requirements. For personalised advice, contact RMIT's international admissions office.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Environmental Engineering) 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.