Doctor of Philosophy (Cyber Security) (CRICOS course code 093555F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students who wish to undertake advanced research in security science, a subfield of Information Technology (field 029901). The course is delivered at UNSW Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory, offering a unique blend of academic rigour and practical exposure to defence and government cybersecurity challenges. With an indicative total cost of A$197,000 (including tuition and non-tuition fees), this PhD prepares graduates for careers in research, academia, and high-level industry roles. Entry typically requires a master's degree or honours with research component, and English proficiency of IELTS 6.5-7.0. As a CRICOS-registered course (093555F), international students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and benefit from ESOS Act protections. Explore the full details below, including fees, location, and how to apply.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (Cyber Security) falls under the field of Security Science (029901), which is part of the broader Information Technology discipline (02). At this level, students are expected to conduct original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Typical areas of study include cybersecurity policy, cryptography, network security, threat intelligence, and digital forensics. The program emphasises independent research, critical analysis, and the production of a thesis of publishable quality. While the specific syllabus is set by UNSW, AQF Level 10 outcomes require graduates to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of the discipline. Students work closely with a supervisor and may have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, including government agencies in Canberra.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Philosophy (Cyber Security) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual award). This program does not include foundation studies or a VET national code. Students are expected to be enrolled full-time, although part-time study may be possible with visa restrictions—check with the provider. The duration reflects the time required to complete a substantial research thesis and any coursework components as required by the university.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: Tuition fee: A$193,000; Non-tuition fee: A$4,000; Estimated total: A$197,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Canberra are estimated at A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees with UNSW directly, as they are subject to change. Remember that all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and fee data comes from the official register.
For this Doctoral Degree, typical entry requirements include a bachelor's degree with honours (Class 1 or 2A) or a master's degree with a significant research component relevant to cybersecurity or a related field. English language proficiency is generally required with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band less than 6.0). Some applicants may need to provide a research proposal and identify a supervisor before applying. UNSW may offer pathway programs such as a Graduate Diploma or Master’s by coursework, but that is at the provider's discretion. Always check the university's website for precise requirements. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a research degree, students may engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university. Any work undertaken outside the course must comply with student visa conditions, which allow up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
This course is delivered at UNSW Canberra, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers (nationally) and a large student population. The city has excellent public transport including buses and light rail, with the campus well-connected. The ACT has a high concentration of government and defence agencies, making it an ideal location for cybersecurity research. The city offers a range of accommodation options, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400–550.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Other requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections including tuition assurance and refund policies. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to begin your journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Search for courses filtered by doctoral level, cybersecurity field, and location. Use HeadStart Academy to compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to The University of New South Wales (UNSW), including academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and referee reports. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues your CoE, prepare your visa application with required documents, including OSHC evidence and financial statements. Apply through the Department of Home Affairs.
Canberra offers a unique study environment with a strong focus on research and government. As Australia's capital, it hosts numerous national institutions, think tanks, and defence organisations. The city has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average rent for a shared house around A$250–350 per week. Public transport is reliable, and the city is known for its parks and cultural attractions. However, it has fewer part-time job opportunities in hospitality compared to larger cities. If you value a quiet, study-focused environment with excellent networking opportunities in cybersecurity, Canberra could be an ideal choice.
Ready to start your PhD in Cyber Security at UNSW? Visit the official university website for the most up-to-date information and application deadlines.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Cyber Security) 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.