Doctor of Philosophy - Education (CRICOS course code 083437F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 4 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international education. As a doctoral-level program, it prepares graduates for advanced research and leadership roles in education. Murdoch University, a government-funded institution in Perth, Western Australia, offers this course at its Murdoch campus. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and more than 26,000 courses available in Australia, choosing a CRICOS-registered program ensures your qualification is recognised and your rights as an international student are protected under the ESOS Act.
Doctor of Philosophy - Education (CRICOS course code 083437F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 4 years. The course falls under the broad field of Education (079999 - Education, n.e.c.) at AQF Level 10. As a PhD, it involves original research that contributes new knowledge to the field of education. Students work closely with a supervisor to develop, execute, and write up a substantial research project. This course is ideal for those aiming to become academic researchers, policy advisors, or senior education professionals. Murdoch University is a recognised leader in research, with strong connections to schools and educational organisations in Western Australia.
As a doctoral candidate in Education, you will engage in advanced research that addresses complex questions in teaching, learning, policy, or institutional leadership. The program typically includes research methodology training, a literature review, data collection and analysis, and a thesis of up to 100,000 words. While the specific focus depends on your chosen topic, common areas include curriculum development, educational technology, inclusive education, and higher education management. Graduates emerge with skills in critical analysis, academic writing, and project management, preparing them for careers in universities, government departments, and educational consultancies. This course is not a VET course and does not include a work component.
Doctor of Philosophy - Education is a 4-year program, recorded as 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though some components may involve off-campus research. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The Murdoch University campus in Western Australia provides access to libraries, laboratories, and research facilities. There are no foundation studies options attached to this course; direct entry into the PhD requires a prior research background.
The indicative total tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy - Education is A$148,800, with non-tuition fees of A$1,460, making an estimated total of A$150,260. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. You should contact Murdoch University directly for the most current fee schedule. Note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Perth are approximately A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on your lifestyle. Always budget for additional expenses and check the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity requirements.
Entry into Doctor of Philosophy - Education typically requires a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with Honours (AQF Level 8) in a related field, along with a strong research proposal. English language proficiency is essential; Murdoch University generally requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent). Some faculties may set higher standards. You may also need to submit a research proposal and identify a potential supervisor. As entry requirements can vary, it is essential to check the exact criteria on Murdoch University's website. This course does not offer foundation or pathway programs; you must meet the direct entry standards.
Doctor of Philosophy - Education does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with your study obligations. Unlike some vocational courses, this PhD is research-focused and does not require internships or industry placements. Any work experience you gain alongside your studies is optional and subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at Murdoch University (Murdoch) campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is a suburb approximately 15 kilometres south of Perth's central business district. The campus is accessible via public transport, including the Mandurah railway line and several bus routes. Perth is home to over 10 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community with a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong education sector, and students benefit from a mix of urban and outdoor lifestyles.
International students enrolled in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (up to 5 years for PhD programs) and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). The visa application fee is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). For guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter doctoral programs in Education. Compare providers like Murdoch University based on location, fees, and research strengths. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), research proposal, and supervisor agreement. Submit your application through Murdoch University's online portal before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Murdoch will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Perth offers a unique study environment with a relaxed lifestyle, affordable housing, and a growing economy. Compared to eastern state capitals, weekly rent is about A$300–450 for a single room in a shared house, and public transport is efficient with a student concession card. The city has a strong focus on education and research, with Murdoch University being one of five public universities in WA. If you enjoy beaches, parks, and a multicultural community, Perth could be an excellent choice. However, consider that it is more isolated than other Australian cities, which may affect networking opportunities. Visit the Murdoch University campus to get a feel for the area before committing.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore more doctoral programs in Education on HeadStart Academy, or visit Murdoch University's website to apply.
Doctor of Philosophy - Education 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.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.