Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 085257E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows you to make an original contribution to knowledge in your chosen field, classified under Mixed Field Programmes (n.e.c.) for interdisciplinary flexibility. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government university (CRICOS 00279B), it meets Australian quality standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you plan your study journey in Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy at Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered over 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The course is registered under CRICOS code 085257E and falls within the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c., allowing candidates to pursue interdisciplinary research. ECU is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00279B, delivering this program across four campuses in Western Australia. The university has a strong research culture and supports doctoral candidates through dedicated supervision and resources. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This page provides an indicative overview; always confirm details directly with ECU.
The Doctor of Philosophy is a research doctoral degree that typically involves independent investigation culminating in a thesis or equivalent that makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge. The field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.' (129999) indicates a broad, interdisciplinary scope, meaning your research can span multiple disciplines or focus on emerging areas not covered by traditional fields. ECU provides access to experienced supervisors, research training, and facilities to support your work. While specific syllabus content depends on your research topic, all PhD candidates are expected to design and execute a research project, analyze findings, and defend their dissertation. This level of study is ideal for those seeking careers in academia, research institutions, or high-level professional roles requiring advanced analytical skills.
This Doctor of Philosophy is a 4-year program (208 weeks on the CRICOS register) offered on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual award). The duration is based on standard full-time study; part-time options may be available but are not listed on CRICOS. Students must maintain satisfactory progress as per ECU's research degree requirements. The course is delivered face-to-face at ECU campuses, with some research activities possibly off-site depending on the nature of the study. International students on a student visa must maintain full-time enrolment and comply with visa conditions regarding attendance and academic progress.
The indicative tuition fee for this Doctor of Philosophy is A$169,800 for the full 4-year program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is A$169,800. Note that this does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. OSHC is compulsory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Perth are estimated at A$21,041 per year according to the Department of Home Affairs. Always confirm current fees on ECU's website as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy is not responsible for fee variations.
Entry requirements for this Doctor of Philosophy typically include an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) as proof of English proficiency, along with a completed master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours at a high level. Some disciplines may require relevant research experience or a research proposal aligning with ECU's expertise. Foundation studies are not applicable at this level; instead, ECU may offer pre-research or pathway programs for candidates who need additional preparation. For precise entry requirements, consult the Edith Cowan University website or contact their admissions office. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the CRICOS register and provider website for the most current information.
This course does not have a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy is a research degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work must not interfere with study commitments. ECU may offer optional teaching or research assistant positions, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered course structure.
Edith Cowan University delivers this Doctor of Philosophy at four campuses in Western Australia: • ECU City Campus (Perth CBD) – located in the heart of Perth, a vibrant capital city with over 2 million residents and a large international student population of around 50,000. • ECU Joondalup Campus – in the northern suburb of Joondalup, about 30 km from Perth, with good public transport links via train and bus. • ECU Mt Lawley Campus – an inner-city campus near the Perth CBD, surrounded by cafes and student accommodation. • ECU South West Campus (Bunbury) – in Bunbury, a regional city 175 km south of Perth, offering a smaller community feel. All campuses are accessible by public transport, and Perth's living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Typical weekly rent ranges from A$250–A$450, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$30–A$50. These indicative costs help with budgeting.
International students enrolling in this Doctor of Philosophy will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, providing evidence of English proficiency, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and maintaining OSHC for the visa duration. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The visa also requires satisfactory course progress and attendance. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student. For visa application guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Western Australia (WA) offers a unique study environment for doctoral candidates. Perth, the state capital, is known for its sunny climate, affordable living compared to eastern states, and growing innovation sector. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, WA hosts many universities and research institutes. The cost of living in Perth is moderate: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$350–A$500, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport monthly pass about A$130. Bunbury, where ECU's South West Campus is located, offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs. Consider your research field, supervision availability, and personal preferences. ECU provides research support and industry connections. For more on WA, visit our /states/wa page.
Applying for the Doctor of Philosophy at Edith Cowan University involves three key steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to confirm ECU's registration (00279B) and the course details (085257E). Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (WA) to compare options.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit ECU's website to check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, provide English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and submit transcripts. Deadlines vary, so plan ahead.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, ECU issues a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements. Our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page provides further guidance.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Contact Edith Cowan University for more information and begin your application.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan 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.