Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) (CRICOS course code 081098C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years 6 months (~182 weeks). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international students. As a research-intensive program, it offers international students the opportunity to develop advanced knowledge in psychology and conduct original research under expert supervision. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) – no commission or referral fees. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and the ESOS Act protects your rights.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) at Federation University Australia is a high-level research qualification (AQF Level 10) designed for students who wish to make a significant contribution to the field of psychology. Over three and a half years, candidates undertake a supervised research project resulting in a thesis that advances knowledge in areas such as behavioural science, cognitive processes, or applied psychology. The course is delivered at three Victorian campuses: Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland (Churchill). As a CRICOS-registered course (081098C), it meets the requirements for international student enrolment. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in research and regional education.
This doctoral program falls under the field of Society and Culture (broad field 09) with a specialisation in Behavioural Science (narrow field 0907) and Psychology (detailed field 090701). While specific curriculum details are set by the university, doctoral candidates typically engage in advanced coursework in research methods, ethics, and discipline-specific theory before undertaking their independent research. Graduates develop expertise in critical analysis, experimental design, data interpretation, and scholarly writing. This level of study prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, clinical practice (with further registration), and high-level policy roles. It is important to note that the Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) is a research degree, not a professional training program – for professional registration as a psychologist in Australia, additional supervised practice is required.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) has a duration of 3 years and 6 months (approximately 182 weeks). The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to be enrolled full-time, and the course is primarily research-based with minimal taught coursework. The duration may vary based on individual progress and research requirements. For accurate enrolment details, refer to Federation University Australia's website.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$108,000 total. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$455, bringing the estimated total cost to A$108,455. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Federation University Australia. Note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. Living costs vary by location: in Ballarat or Churchill, weekly costs (rent, groceries, transport) may range from A$350–A$500; in Berwick (Melbourne area), expect A$500–A$700. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider before applying.
International students must meet the English language requirement: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). For a doctoral program, you typically need a master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (at least 4 years) in a relevant field such as psychology or behavioural science. Prior research experience is often expected. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; however, some students may complete a pre-doctoral bridging program if offered by the university. Entry requirements are set by the institution – consult Federation University Australia's website for specific prerequisites. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research-based doctoral degree focused on academic study and thesis completion. Students may undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) under their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Work is not a requirement of the course.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) is delivered at three campuses in Victoria: Federation University Ballarat (BALLARAT, VIC), Federation University Berwick (BERWICK, VIC), and Federation University Gippsland (Churchill, VIC). Ballarat is a regional city with a strong student community and lower cost of living compared to Melbourne. Berwick is a southeastern suburb of Melbourne, offering proximity to the capital's amenities. Gippsland (Churchill) is a regional centre in Victoria's Latrobe Valley. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Each location provides research facilities and supervision. When choosing a campus, consider living costs, lifestyle, and access to resources.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is also required. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
A PhD in Psychology is a significant commitment – it requires strong self-discipline, research skills, and passion for original inquiry. Consider your career goals: if you aim to become a registered psychologist, a PhD alone may not suffice; you may need an accredited professional program (e.g., Master of Clinical Psychology) followed by supervised practice. However, a PhD opens doors to research and academic roles. Location matters: regional campuses like Ballarat and Churchill offer lower living costs and a quieter environment conducive to deep research, while Berwick offers easier access to Melbourne's academic and clinical networks. All CRICOS-registered providers are subject to ESOS Act protections. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses in Australia, you have many options – but this course stands out for its research focus at a government university.
To apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) at Federation University Australia, follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Psychology), and location (Victoria) on HeadStart Academy. Confirm the course code 081098C. 2. Apply directly to Federation University Australia – Check entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, research proposal, and English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0). Applications are made through the university's online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once admitted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant status.
Start your doctoral journey – explore Federation University Australia's Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.