Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts

Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts (CRICOS 083419G) at Murdoch University

Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts (CRICOS course code 083419G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 4 years. This course is designed for international students seeking to undertake advanced research in creative arts fields, including visual arts, performing arts, creative writing, and interdisciplinary practices. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 00125J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Murdoch University, a public institution located in Murdoch, Western Australia, offers this PhD as a pathway to academic, research, and leadership careers in the creative sector. With an indicative total fee of A$150,260 and English language requirements of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, this course provides a rigorous research environment supported by experienced supervisors. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change. HeadStart Academy is your free, trusted resource for CRICOS-registered courses across Australia.

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Course Overview

Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts (CRICOS course code 083419G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch), a public government-owned university. The course falls under the field of 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1099 - Other Creative Arts (109999 Creative Arts, n.e.c.). Over the 4-year duration (208 weeks as registered on CRICOS), students undertake independent research culminating in a thesis that makes a significant original contribution to knowledge in creative arts. The program is conducted entirely in English and does not include a mandatory work component. Murdoch University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with no referral fees or commissions.

What You'll Study

Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts allows students to pursue original research in a specialized area of creative arts. At AQF Level 10, graduates demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge, including mastery of research principles and methods applicable to creative arts practice and theory. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to conceptualise, design, and execute a major research project; communicate complex ideas effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences; and contribute to the advancement of creative arts disciplines. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, students can expect to engage with literature reviews, research methodology training, ethical considerations, and regular progress reviews. This course prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, or high-level creative practice. For detailed curriculum information, consult Murdoch University directly.

Duration and Study Mode

The Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts is a 4-year program, recorded as 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. This duration includes both coursework components (if applicable) and thesis research. The language of instruction is English. The course is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to undertake full-time research under the supervision of an academic staff member. Part-time options may be available but are subject to visa conditions and approval from the university. For international students, the standard Student visa (Subclass 500) requires full-time enrolment. The course is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia.

Fees (Indicative – Set by Murdoch University)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$148,800, with non-tuition fees of A$1,460, giving an estimated total of A$150,260. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Murdoch University. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: www.murdoch.edu.au. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For 2025, OSHC is approximately A$600–A$700 per year for single cover, while living costs in Perth are estimated at around A$21,000–A$27,000 annually (including rent, groceries, and transport). Rent in Murdoch area ranges from A$200–A$400 per week for shared accommodation. Use the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity calculator for precise requirements.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

International applicants must meet English language proficiency: typically IELTS (Academic) 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0–7.0, depending on the specific research area. Murdoch University may also accept equivalent scores such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. For academic entry, a prior master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field is usually required, with a research component or demonstrated research capability. Applicants should submit a research proposal and identify potential supervisors. Some candidates may be accepted with a bachelor's degree (honours) with first or upper second class. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; however, Murdoch offers preparatory programs such as the Master of Research (by coursework) that may serve as a pathway. Always check specific requirements with Murdoch University, as entry criteria are set by the institution. No visa or migration advice is provided here; consult a registered MARA agent for individual assessment.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course curriculum and is not assessed. For up-to-date work rights information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs. Murdoch University may offer voluntary research assistant roles or internships, but these are not compulsory.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus: Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth has a vibrant student population with approximately 60,000 international students enrolled across multiple universities. The Murdoch campus is accessible via public transport, including bus routes and the Mandurah railway line (Murdoch Station is nearby). Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300–A$450. Perth offers a Mediterranean climate, numerous beaches, and a growing cultural scene. For students considering this location, HeadStart Academy provides data on over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Western Australia.

Student Visa

International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: 1) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating genuine intention to study temporarily in Australia. 2) Financial capacity to cover tuition fees (indicative A$150,260), living costs (A$21,041 per year as of 2025), OSHC, and travel. 3) English proficiency as per entry requirements. 4) Enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (this course is registered). 5) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. 6) Health insurance and character requirements. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Dependants may accompany the student and have limited work rights. Visa conditions vary; always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for tailored visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent. ESOS Act protections apply to this course, including tuition assurance and complaint handling through the Overseas Students Ombudsman.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts at Murdoch University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy’s course search to verify that Murdoch University (CRICOS 00125J) and this course (083419G) are currently registered. Filter by doctoral level, creative arts field, and location (Perth/Murdoch). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Murdoch University’s website (www.murdoch.edu.au) to review entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, arrange academic transcripts, and submit an online application. You may need to provide English test results (IELTS/TOEFL) and referee reports. Application deadlines vary; typically, research degrees have rolling intakes but allow at least 3–6 months for processing. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once Murdoch issues your CoE, you can apply for a visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare documents including CoE, evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, GTE statement, and passport. Submit online and await a decision. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; all visa decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs.

Is Western Australia Right for You?

Western Australia (WA) offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, strong economy, and world-class universities. Perth, the state capital, is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, including five public universities. The city has a multicultural population, excellent public transport, and a cost of living generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. For international students, WA offers a supportive environment with dedicated student services. However, consider the distance from other Australian cities and the hot, dry summers. If you value a quieter, beach-oriented lifestyle with strong employment opportunities in resources and services, WA could be ideal. HeadStart Academy’s data shows that Western Australia hosts around 15% of Australia’s international students, with a high satisfaction rate. We recommend exploring the Murdoch campus and surrounding suburbs to get a feel for the area.

Ready to apply? Start by checking your eligibility and preparing your research proposal. Visit Murdoch University’s website for application details.

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Source-backed course facts

Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts
CRICOS course code
083419G
Provider
Murdoch University (Murdoch) (00125J)
Course level
Doctoral Degree
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
208 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$148,800
Estimated total (indicative)
A$150,260
Delivery locations
Murdoch
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$148,800, with non-tuition fees of A$1,460, making an estimated total of A$150,260. These are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by Murdoch University. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) approximately A$600–A$700 per year, living expenses (around A$21,000–A$27,000 per year), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees on Murdoch University's official website.
The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research program. Part-time options may be available but require visa approval. The duration includes thesis preparation and any required coursework.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0–7.0). Academic requirements include a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field with a research component, or a bachelor's degree (honours) with first or upper second class. A research proposal and identification of a supervisor are also required. Some applicants may complete a qualifying program. Exact requirements are set by Murdoch University; check their website.
This course is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb of Perth, approximately 12 km south of the Perth CBD. The campus is accessible by public transport, including buses and the Mandurah railway line (Murdoch Station). Perth offers a range of student accommodation and amenities.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$150,260 for Doctor of Philosophy - Creative Arts (tuition A$148,800). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Murdoch University (Murdoch) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 083419G, offered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) (provider code 00125J). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.