Doctor of Philosophy (Business) (CRICOS course code 082683M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 4 years. This CRICOS-registered program (Provider CRICOS 01241G) is designed for international students seeking advanced research training in management and commerce. As a doctoral-level qualification, it prepares graduates for academic, research, and senior leadership roles. Southern Cross University, a public government-owned institution, offers this course across three campuses in New South Wales and Queensland. The indicative tuition fee is A$127,308, with additional non-tuition costs of A$8,000. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). International students must meet English language and academic requirements, and are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you navigate your study options in Australia.
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This Doctor of Philosophy (Business) falls under the field of education 089999 - Management and Commerce, n.e.c. (Other Management and Commerce). Doctoral degrees (AQF Level 10) are the highest level of tertiary education in Australia, focusing on original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Students typically undertake a supervised research project leading to a thesis of 80,000-100,000 words. The program develops advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, corporate research, government policy, or consultancy. While specific syllabi vary, the learning outcomes align with the Australian Qualifications Framework for doctoral qualifications: systematic and critical understanding of a complex field, mastery of research skills, and the ability to communicate research findings to diverse audiences.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual award or embedded foundational studies. The program is research-intensive, typically involving limited coursework. Students are expected to work full-time under the supervision of experienced academics. The CRICOS registration ensures that the course meets Australian standards for international student programs.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at Southern Cross University is A$127,308 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$8,000, bringing the total to A$135,308. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. Living costs vary by location: for example, weekly rent in Coffs Harbour averages A$250-350, in Lismore A$200-300, and on the Gold Coast A$300-450. Always confirm current fees with Southern Cross University at www.scu.edu.au before applying.
International applicants to the Doctor of Philosophy (Business) are expected to hold a research master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (typically Class I or IIA) in a relevant field. English language proficiency is required: IELTS overall score of 6.5-7.0 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some candidates may need to complete a research proposal or interview. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable at the doctoral level. For specific requirements, refer to Southern Cross University's admissions page. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend consulting the institution or a registered migration agent.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary work or casual employment, subject to visa conditions. However, the PhD program is research-focused and does not require internships, placements, or industry experience.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) is delivered at three campuses: Coffs Harbour (NSW), Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga (QLD), and Lismore (NSW). Each location offers access to university facilities, libraries, and research support. Coffs Harbour is a regional coastal city with a growing student population. The Gold Coast campus is near the airport and public transport. Lismore is a regional centre in northern NSW. All campuses are CRICOS-registered and provide a supportive environment for international students.
International students enrolled in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Dependants (if applicable) may apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). ESOS Act protections cover refunds, course changes, and provider compliance. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and confirm CRICOS registration. Ensure Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) meets your needs. 2) Apply directly to Southern Cross University: meet entry requirements (qualifications, English test scores), prepare a research proposal, and submit before the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): once accepted, use the CoE to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. For assistance, contact the university's international admissions team.
New South Wales and Queensland are home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. For doctoral study, you'll have access to research networks and facilities. The cost of living varies: in regional areas like Lismore and Coffs Harbour, weekly expenses are lower than in Sydney. The Gold Coast offers a vibrant lifestyle with proximity to beaches. When choosing a location, consider supervision availability, research culture, and lifestyle preferences. All three campuses are well-connected by public transport. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you explore options without referral fees.
Explore your PhD options at Southern Cross University or compare other doctoral programs in business.
Doctor of Philosophy (Business) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.