Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 084854C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 3 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for students aiming to make significant original contributions to research in their chosen field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00102E), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Whether you're exploring PhD opportunities in Australia or specifically at UoW, this page provides essential details on fees, entry requirements, and the application process. Located in Wollongong, NSW, UoW is a public university known for its strong research culture, particularly in behavioural science and psychology. The course is delivered at the Wollongong campus, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student community. With an indicative total cost of A$123,783, including tuition and non-tuition fees, planning your finances is key. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no referral fees—and all data comes from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 084854C) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 3 years (156 weeks) in English. This course falls under the field of education 090701 Psychology, within the broader Society and Culture group. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00102E), it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The program is research-intensive, requiring candidates to produce a thesis that demonstrates original scholarship and contribution to knowledge. UoW, a government-owned university established in 1951, has a strong reputation for research excellence, particularly in behavioural science. The campus is located in Wollongong, a coastal city south of Sydney with a student population of over 60,000. Australia currently has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses—this PhD is one of many high-level research options available to international students.
As a Doctoral Degree in Psychology (Field of Education 090701), the Doctor of Philosophy program focuses on advanced research skills, theoretical frameworks, and methodological expertise. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, typical learning outcomes include designing and conducting independent research, analysing complex data, and communicating findings through academic publications and presentations. Students engage in critical review of literature, ethical research practices, and contribution to the field's body of knowledge. The program is designed to produce graduates who can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or industry roles requiring high-level analytical and problem-solving abilities. At UoW, research strengths in behavioural science include areas like cognitive psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience. The university's research centres provide a collaborative environment for doctoral candidates.
The Doctor of Philosophy is a 3-year (156-week) program, as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or joint degree) and does not include foundation studies. The course is delivered on-campus at UoW Wollongong, with no mandatory work component. Full-time study is typical for international students, and the duration may vary based on progress and research requirements. The CRICOS register confirms the standard duration, but students should confirm study mode options (e.g., part-time) directly with UoW, as visa conditions generally require full-time enrolment for student visa holders.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$122,688, with non-tuition fees of A$1,095, bringing the estimated total to A$123,783. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by University of Wollongong (UoW). Please note: fees are indicative only and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$500–700 per week in Wollongong for rent, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with UoW before applying. For financial planning, consider that Australia requires evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. UoW may also offer scholarships or research stipends—check their website for details.
Admission to a Doctor of Philosophy typically requires a Master's degree or equivalent research experience in a relevant field. English language proficiency is essential: UoW generally expects IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0–6.5), or equivalent test scores. Some faculties may require higher scores. Additionally, applicants must submit a research proposal and identify a potential supervisor. Foundation or pathway programs are not available for this level; however, students with a strong Honours degree may be considered. Always refer to UoW's official entry requirements, as they can vary by discipline. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity for the student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, as it is primarily research-based. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. UoW’s Wollongong campus has a Careers service that helps students find part-time work, which can supplement living costs while studying.
This course is delivered at UOW Wollongong, located in WOLLONGONG, NSW. Wollongong is a coastal city approximately 80 km south of Sydney, with a population of around 280,000 and a large student community (over 60,000 students across multiple institutions). The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney—indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$150–250, and public transport (train and buses) connects the campus to the city centre and suburbs. UoW’s main campus is well-equipped with research facilities, libraries, and student support services. Wollongong has several CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination in NSW.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UoW, OSHC for the duration of stay, evidence of English proficiency, and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year as of 2026), and travel. Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited during breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied. For detailed guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. ESOS Act protections ensure that universities meet quality standards and provide refund policies for international students.
Wollongong offers a balanced lifestyle with beaches, parks, and a lower cost of living than major capitals. The city has a strong research infrastructure, particularly at UoW, which is a member of the Australian Technology Network. Students benefit from proximity to Sydney (1.5 hours by train) while enjoying a more relaxed environment. Consider your research field: UoW has particular strengths in behavioural science and psychology, with active research groups and industry connections. Living costs in Wollongong are moderate: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about A$300–400, groceries A$80–120, and public transport concessions are available. The city has a diverse international student population, with multiple cultural festivals and support networks.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course as an international student:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Psychology), and location (Wollongong). Verify that University of Wollongong (CRICOS 00102E) and course 084854C meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and referee reports. Submit an application via UoW’s online portal before the deadline. Some faculties require you to contact a potential supervisor first.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once UoW offers you a place and you accept, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through ImmiAccount, including OSHC and financial evidence. Check visa processing times—allow at least 4–6 weeks.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore University of Wollongong (UoW) and other CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.