Doctor of Philosophy (Education Studies) (CRICOS course code 084124D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Victoria University over 4 years. This program is part of the broader field of Education Studies (070303) and is registered under the official CRICOS register at AQF Level 10. As a research-intensive doctorate, it equips graduates to conduct independent, original research in education theory, policy, or practice. Victoria University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00124K), offers this course at three campuses in Victoria: City Campus (Melbourne CBD), Footscray Park, and St Albans. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student support. The indicative tuition fee is A$146,928 for the full 4-year program, with no compulsory non-tuition fees. However, students should budget for OSHC, living costs (Melbourne's average weekly rent is around A$450), and visa application charges. This page provides a comprehensive overview to help you decide if this PhD is right for your academic and career goals.
Doctor of Philosophy (Education Studies) (CRICOS course code 084124D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Victoria University over 4 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under AQF Level 10. It falls under the field of Education Studies (070303). Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) is a government-owned institution with a strong research focus. The program is designed for scholars aiming to contribute original knowledge to education through rigorous research. All information on this page is based on the official CRICOS register data as at April 2026.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Education Studies) involves advanced research culminating in a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. Students work under the supervision of experienced faculty members and may engage in coursework in research methods if required. Graduates develop expertise in educational theory, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and policy analysis. Typical research areas include curriculum design, educational leadership, inclusive education, and learning technologies. The program aims to produce scholars capable of contributing to academic discourse or leading education initiatives in government, NGOs, or private sectors. Students are expected to attend seminars, present at conferences, and publish research findings. The specific research focus is determined by the student's proposal and supervisor's expertise.
The program is 4 years full-time (208 weeks as per CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students must maintain satisfactory progress to continue enrolment. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students typically require full-time study for visa compliance. The duration may be extended with supervisor approval, but additional fees may apply. All study modes are campus-based at one of Victoria University's three locations.
Indicative tuition fee is A$146,928 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. Estimated total fee is A$146,928. Please note these fees are set by Victoria University and subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated A$22,000 per year for a single student in Melbourne), and visa application fees (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Students should also budget for textbooks, research costs, and travel. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: http://www.vu.edu.au/.
Applicants typically require a master's degree in a relevant field or a bachelor's degree with honours. English language proficiency: overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0, with no band less than 6.0. Equivalent English tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. For specific admission criteria, contact Victoria University directly. Foundation/pathway options are not applicable for doctoral level; however, some students may complete a research master's prior to PhD admission. A strong research proposal and identification of a suitable supervisor are essential. Previous research experience or publications can strengthen your application.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, doctoral students may engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university, subject to visa conditions. No industrial placement is required. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with academic progress.
The course is delivered at three Victoria University campuses: Victoria University City Campus (City Tower) in Melbourne CBD, Footscray Park in Footscray (approximately 6 km west of Melbourne), and St Albans (about 15 km north-west of Melbourne). All locations are well-served by public transport. Melbourne is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and has a large international student population. Living costs vary: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Footscray or St Albans is around A$350–400, while Melbourne CBD is higher around A$450–600. Campuses offer research facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) status, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of tuition fees, living costs, and OSHC. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Education Studies), and location (Victoria). Ensure the provider is registered – Victoria University is CRICOS 00124K. 2. Apply directly to Victoria University: Check entry requirements, submit English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0), prepare research proposal, and meet application deadlines. Apply via the university's online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once offered a place, accept and receive CoE, then lodge your visa application with evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities. It has a vibrant multicultural community, excellent public transport, and a strong education sector. Over 300,000 international students study in Victoria. For a PhD student, Melbourne offers access to leading universities, libraries, and research networks. Living costs are moderate; average weekly rent for a shared house is around A$250–350. However, consider your research focus – if your work involves fieldwork or collaboration with local schools, being in Melbourne provides rich opportunities. Evaluate your budget and lifestyle preferences. Also consider campus location: City campus offers CBD convenience, while Footscray and St Albans provide more affordable housing.
Start your research: use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral programs in Education Studies across Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy (Education Studies) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victoria University. 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.