Doctor of Philosophy (Built Environment) (CRICOS course code 079829B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years. Part of the field of Architecture and Building (Building, n.f.d.), this research-intensive program equips graduates with advanced skills to address complex challenges in the built environment. RMIT, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00122A), offers this course at its Melbourne campus. As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), it prepares students for leadership roles in academia, research, and industry. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for international students planning their study in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Built Environment) (CRICOS course code 079829B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 4 years (208 weeks). The course is classified under field of education 040300 - Building, n.f.d., within the Architecture and Building broad field. RMIT, a prestigious government university in Melbourne, VIC, has been CRICOS-registered since 1990 (provider code 00122A). This program is designed for international students seeking to undertake original research in built environment disciplines. No dual qualification, foundation studies, or work component is included. The language of instruction is English.
As a doctoral candidate, you will engage in independent, supervised research culminating in a thesis that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in the built environment. Typical areas of inquiry include sustainable design, construction management, urban planning, and building performance. You will develop advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and scholarly communication skills. This field combines technical expertise with policy and design thinking, preparing graduates for academic roles or senior positions in government and industry.
The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is conducted in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Full-time on-campus attendance is required at RMIT's Melbourne city campus. The length may vary depending on research progress, but CRICOS lists 208 weeks as the standard duration for international student visa purposes.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$161,280 for the full program, with non-tuition fees of 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 set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. Fees are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., Melbourne's indicative weekly rent A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$120, transport A$40–$60), and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: www.rmit.edu.au.
A typical IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) is expected for this level. Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree or equivalent research experience. Prior qualifications should demonstrate strong academic performance. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this course; contact RMIT for specific requirements. All entry criteria are determined by the institution; HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain professional experience while studying in Melbourne.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Built Environment) is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging $300–$500 for a shared apartment.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay. The visa allows work rights as noted above. Ensure you demonstrate financial capacity covering tuition, living costs, and OSHC. ESOS Act protections guarantee your rights as a student at a CRICOS-registered provider. For personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers like RMIT (00122A) offering doctoral degrees in Architecture and Building. Use HeadStart Academy to compare options based on location, fees, and entry requirements. Step 2: Apply directly to RMIT by meeting entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts, research proposal) and adhering to application deadlines. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to organise OSHC and finances.
Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city renowned for its education and research ecosystem. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, RMIT's central location offers access to libraries, industry partners, and a strong research community. Consider climate (four seasons), cost of living (higher than regional areas, lower than Sydney), and career opportunities after graduation. Melbourne's built environment sector is growing, making it an ideal place for PhD research.
Ready to apply? Explore CRICOS-registered courses at RMIT or start your student visa application process. Visit HeadStart Academy for more resources.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Built Environment) 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.