Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering) (CRICOS course code 085785C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This research-intensive program prepares international students for careers in academia, research, and advanced engineering industries. UNSW is a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) and a Group of Eight university, consistently ranked among the world's top 50 engineering schools. As a doctoral candidate, you will conduct original research under expert supervision, contributing new knowledge to the field of electrical engineering. The program is delivered at UNSW Canberra, the Australian Defence Force Academy campus, offering a unique environment with access to cutting-edge laboratories and defence-related research partnerships. With an indicative total cost of A$197,000, this investment opens doors to global research networks and leadership roles. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
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This Doctoral Degree falls under the broad field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Technology, specifically Electrical Engineering (Field of Education code 031301). Doctoral candidates typically complete a substantial research thesis that demonstrates independent, critical thinking and a significant contribution to knowledge in their chosen area. While the exact research topic is negotiated during the application process, common areas of study include power systems, renewable energy, signal processing, telecommunications, control systems, and microelectronics. The program does not include coursework components; instead, you will work one-on-one with a supervisory panel to design and execute a research project over the 4-year duration (208 weeks). Graduates emerge as experts capable of solving complex engineering problems, leading research teams, and publishing in high-impact journals. It is important to note that this is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering) is a full-time, research-only program with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. There are no compulsory coursework units; the program is entirely thesis-based. You will be expected to work on campus at UNSW Canberra, although some research activities may be conducted off-site with approval. The program does not have a work component, meaning no mandatory internship, placement, or industry experience is required. However, you may undertake casual teaching or research assistant work (within visa limits) to supplement your income. As this is a single qualification, you will graduate with one degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering). No foundation studies or pathway programs are integrated, so you must meet direct entry requirements.
The CRICOS register records the following indicative fees for the entire program: tuition fees of A$193,000 and non-tuition fees of A$4,000, giving an estimated total of A$197,000. These fees are set by UNSW and are subject to annual review; they do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students must budget for additional costs: OSHC (approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover), living costs (around A$30,000–$35,000 per year in Canberra, including rent, groceries, transport, and utilities), and the Student visa (Subclass 500) application fee (currently A$650). For the most accurate and current fees, always check the UNSW website directly. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
To be considered for this Doctoral Degree, applicants typically need a strong academic background in electrical engineering or a closely related field. A bachelor's degree with honours (at least upper second class) or a master's degree with a research component is usually expected. English language proficiency is demonstrated by an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent accepted tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE Academic). Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal, academic references, and attend an interview. Foundation or pathway programs are not available for direct entry into this PhD; however, UNSW offers pre-research programs (e.g., Master by Research) that can serve as a pathway. Always check the specific admission criteria on the UNSW website, as requirements may vary by research area. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research doctorate, your primary commitment is to your thesis and associated research activities. You are not required to complete an internship, industry placement, or practicum. However, you may choose to engage in part-time work outside your studies, subject to your Student visa conditions. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled university breaks. Any work must not interfere with your research progress.
This course is delivered at UNSW Canberra, located on the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) campus in the suburb of Campbell, ACT, approximately 5 km from Canberra's city centre. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 450,000 people and a significant student population. The city has 6 CRICOS-registered providers offering 755 courses. There is a strong student community supported by excellent public transport, including buses and light rail. Living costs in Canberra are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$400–$550, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $35–$50. The campus features state-of-the-art engineering labs, a library, and on-campus accommodation options. UNSW Canberra is unique in being a joint university-military campus, offering strong research connections with defence and government.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa requires you to fulfil the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. You must also have adequate health insurance through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and provide evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). As a doctoral student, you will typically have longer visa validity (up to 5 years or your course duration). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW will be required for the visa application. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — HeadStart Academy helps you filter by course level, field, and location. This course is offered at UNSW (CRICOS 00098G). Ensure you have identified the correct institution and program.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — UNSW requires you to submit an online application through their research admissions portal. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), a research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines (usually rolling, but allow 3–4 months for processing). Some applicants may need to find a supervisor before applying.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once UNSW approves your application, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare documents: passport, CoE, OSHC evidence, financial statements, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply well in advance.
Canberra offers a unique study environment compared to larger cities like Sydney or Melbourne. It is quieter, more affordable (though not cheap), and has a strong focus on research, government, and defence. With a relatively small but diverse international student community, you may find it easier to integrate and access support services. The city has over 6 CRICOS-registered providers, including the Australian National University (ANU) and UNSW Canberra. Living costs are moderately high, but you can commute easily via bus or light rail. Nature lovers will appreciate the many parks, mountains, and lakes. However, if you prefer a fast-paced nightlife or extensive cultural diversity, larger cities might be better. For a PhD in electrical engineering, UNSW Canberra's defence and research links are a distinct advantage.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering) 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.