Are you considering a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at University of Wollongong? CRICOS course code 087635A is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) in Physics, delivered over 4 years. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways to help you plan your study in Australia. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. University of Wollongong (UoW) is a CRICOS-registered provider (00102E), meaning all courses meet Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you're drawn to Wollongong's coastal lifestyle or its research strengths, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 087635A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 4 years (208 weeks). This course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (0103 - Physics and Astronomy, specifically 010301 - Physics). As a PhD, it involves original research culminating in a thesis, and it is classified as a single qualification with no dual award. The language of instruction is English. University of Wollongong is a government-run university located in Wollongong, NSW, and is registered on CRICOS with provider code 00102E.
As a Doctor of Philosophy candidate in Physics, you will engage in advanced research training, develop new knowledge, and contribute to the field through independent investigation. While specific syllabi vary by supervisor and project, typical learning outcomes include designing and conducting experiments, analysing complex data, writing research papers, and presenting findings at conferences. At AQF Level 10, you are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge, as well as mastery of research skills. The University of Wollongong's Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health oversees the program, and students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative research centres.
The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. There is no foundation studies or dual qualification available. The program is research-based, so study mode is typically on-campus with access to supervision and facilities. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this Doctor of Philosophy is A$182,208, with non-tuition fees of A$1,460, bringing the estimated total to A$183,668. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. For the most current fees, always visit the University of Wollongong website. Below is a summary table:
Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy typically requires a master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) in a related field. The University of Wollongong may also consider substantial research or professional experience. English language proficiency is essential: an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) is commonly required. Some programs may have higher standards. There is no foundation studies option for this course. As requirements vary by project, applicants should check the specific entry criteria on UOW's website or contact the Graduate Research School. HeadStart Academy does not set these requirements; they are provided as a general guide.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a PhD student, you may have opportunities for casual teaching, research assistantships, or industry placements, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered program. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at the UOW Wollongong campus, located in WOLLONGONG, NSW. Wollongong is a coastal city approximately 80 km south of Sydney, with a population of about 300,000. The city has a student population of over 30,000, with UOW being the largest university. Wollongong offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–$450, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. The campus is accessible by train, bus, and bike from most suburbs. There are 2 other CRICOS-registered providers in Wollongong (including TAFE NSW), but UOW is the main university.
International students enrolling in this Doctor of Philosophy must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UOW, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), English language proficiency, and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when classes are in session and unlimited hours during recognized breaks. All international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring course quality and consumer rights. For personalized visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Wollongong offers a unique blend of academic rigor and coastal lifestyle. With a growing innovation precinct and strong industry links in engineering, health, and sciences, UOW is a top choice for PhD candidates. The city has a student-friendly atmosphere, with affordable housing compared to Sydney and excellent public transport. However, consider the field-specific research strengths: UOW is particularly renowned for physics, materials science, and engineering. If you prefer a bustling metropolitan environment, Sydney may be more suitable. Weigh these factors against your research goals and personal preferences.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy at University of Wollongong:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Wollongong). Ensure your chosen course is CRICOS-registered (like 087635A).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit UOW's website to review entry requirements, find a supervisor, and submit your application. You'll need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores, a research proposal, and referees. Deadlines vary; check the program page.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once UOW offers you a place and you accept, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have sufficient funds, OSHC, and meet GTE requirements.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more PhD courses in NSW or contact UOW directly for application guidance.
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.