The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 092871B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years. This program is designed for registered nurses and health professionals who wish to undertake advanced research in nursing, healthcare systems, or clinical practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00103D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Federation University Australia is a public university with multiple campuses across Victoria and Queensland, offering a research-intensive environment for doctoral candidates.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) is an AQF Level 10 doctoral degree offered under the field of General Nursing (060301). The program aims to produce independent researchers capable of contributing original knowledge to the nursing profession. Students will engage in supervised research leading to a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. The course is available at four locations: Ballarat, Berwick, Brisbane, and Gippsland. Being a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures compliance with the ESOS Act, providing legal protections for international students.
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research methodology, nursing theory, and specialised clinical topics. Students typically explore areas such as chronic illness management, aged care, mental health nursing, Indigenous health, or healthcare innovation. The curriculum is tailored to each candidate's research proposal, with supervision from experienced academics. While there is no coursework component, candidates may attend seminars and workshops to enhance research skills. The field of education (06 Health) ensures that the research aligns with current healthcare challenges and professional standards.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 3 years (156 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. This is a research degree with no formal coursework; students are expected to be full-time researchers. Part-time options may be available for domestic students but international students must maintain full-time enrolment as per visa conditions.
Tuition fee: A$88,500. Non-tuition fee: A$455 (includes amenities and services fee). Estimated total: A$88,955. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget additional costs: OSHC approximately A$600–$1,000 per year (single cover), living expenses around A$21,041 per year (2024 rate for student visa), and visa application fee A$1,600. Always confirm current fees with Federation University Australia at www.federation.edu.au.
English proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band less than 6.5–7.0 depending on component). Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) or a Master of Nursing (Research) or equivalent with a significant research component. Prior qualifications should demonstrate ability to undertake independent research. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, applicants with a coursework master's may be required to complete a research preparation program. Always check specific requirements with the provider.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may seek casual employment under student visa work conditions.
The course is delivered at four campuses: - Federation University Ballarat (Ballarat, VIC) – a regional city with a vibrant student community, approximately 1.5 hours from Melbourne. Ballarat has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs are lower than Melbourne: rent around $250–$350 per week. - Federation University Berwick (Berwick, VIC) – a growing outer suburb of Melbourne with good public transport connections. Berwick campus is near Berwick station. - Federation University Brisbane (Brisbane, QLD) – located in the heart of Brisbane, a major student city with over 200 CRICOS providers. Living costs in Brisbane: rent $300–$450 per week, groceries $70–$100 per week. - Federation University Gippsland (Churchill, VIC) – a regional campus in the Latrobe Valley, offering a close-knit community. Living expenses are lower than metro areas. Students can choose a campus that suits their research interests and lifestyle.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on campus in Australia. The visa allows 48 hours per fortnight of work during term time and unlimited work during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Students must maintain genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, maintain OSHC for the duration of their stay, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition fee protection and student support services.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing is ideal for registered nurses seeking to advance their career into research, academia, or leadership roles. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. This degree is best suited for those with a strong research background and a passion for improving healthcare through evidence. Consider the location: regional campuses offer lower living costs, while city campuses provide more networking opportunities. All Federation University campuses are CRICOS-registered (00103D), ensuring quality standards.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Search for doctoral nursing programs on HeadStart Academy. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Health/Nursing), and location (VIC or QLD). Compare Federation University with other providers like University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) or Monash University (CRICOS 00008C). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), CV, and two academic references. Submit online via Federation University's applications portal. Deadlines vary; confirm with the university. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE requirements, arrange OSHC, and provide evidence of funds.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore Federation University Australia's Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) on HeadStart Academy for more details and connect with the university directly.
Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.