Doctor of Project Management (CRICOS course code 085770K) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program specialises in Project Management within the Management and Commerce field, preparing graduates for senior leadership roles in complex project environments. UNSW is a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) and a Group of Eight university known for its research excellence. The course is delivered at UNSW Canberra, offering a unique blend of academic rigour and defence-industry connections. Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offer over 26,000 courses, and this doctorate represents the highest level of study in project management. For international students, studying at a CRICOS-registered institution ensures ESOS Act protections. This page provides an indicative overview of fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways to help you plan your study in Australia.
As a Doctoral Degree, the Doctor of Project Management focuses on advanced research skills, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications in managing complex projects. Graduates typically develop expertise in strategic project leadership, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and research methodology. The field of education (080315 Project Management) covers areas such as project lifecycle management, agile and traditional methodologies, and organisational change. While specific syllabus details are set by UNSW, doctoral candidates generally complete a substantial research thesis under expert supervision, contributing new knowledge to the discipline. This level of study is ideal for professionals seeking to advance into senior project management roles or academic careers.
The Doctor of Project Management is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to engage in independent research alongside coursework components as determined by UNSW. The program is not available in part-time mode for international students due to visa conditions requiring full-time study. UNSW Canberra's campus provides a supportive research environment with access to libraries, laboratories, and academic networks.
Course fees are set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) and are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The indicative tuition fee is A$193,000 for the full program, with additional non-tuition fees of approximately A$4,000, bringing the estimated total to A$197,000. Fees are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), or the student visa application charge. Canberra's cost of living is estimated at A$500–A$700 per week for accommodation, plus A$100–A$150 for groceries and A$40–A$60 for public transport. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website at www.unsw.edu.au before applying.
Entry to the Doctor of Project Management typically requires a master's degree in a related field or a bachelor's degree with honours demonstrating strong research potential. International students must meet English language proficiency standards, with an indicative IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (no band below 6.0). Some applicants may need to complete a research proposal or attend an interview. UNSW may offer pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate or Master's program for those who do not immediately meet doctoral entry requirements. Check the provider's website for detailed entry criteria and application deadlines.
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 time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Any employment should not interfere with course requirements. UNSW Canberra may offer optional industry engagement opportunities or internships, but these are not compulsory components of the degree.
The Doctor of Project Management is delivered at UNSW Canberra, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 400,000 residents and a large international student community. The city has around 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all levels. Canberra offers a high quality of life with excellent public transport, including buses and light rail connecting UNSW Canberra to the city centre. Typical living costs in Canberra are higher than the national average, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400–A$600. The city is also known for its national institutions, parks, and safe environment.
International students enrolled in the Doctor of Project Management will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, have sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa application advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Project Management at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the official CRICOS register to verify that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) is approved to offer this course to international students. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Project Management), and location (Canberra).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through UNSW's online admissions portal. Ensure you meet the entry requirements, including English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5–7.0), academic transcripts, research proposal, and any other supporting documents. Check application deadlines and prepare for possible interviews.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once UNSW issues your CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE compliance. Your CoE is a critical document for your visa application.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the Doctor of Project Management on UNSW's website and begin your application journey today.
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Doctor of Project Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.