Doctor of Legal Science (Research) (CRICOS course code 093848D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Bond University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for individuals seeking to undertake original research in law and contribute to the legal academy. Bond University, a private institution (CRICOS 00017B), offers this course at its Gold Coast campus. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Note that all providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protections.
Doctor of Legal Science (Research) is a research-intensive doctoral program that allows students to explore complex legal issues through supervised research. The course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0909 - Law', as a non-specific discipline (n.f.d.). Graduates typically develop advanced analytical, critical thinking, and research skills, and are prepared for academic, policy, or high-level legal practice careers. Bond University, based in Robina on the Gold Coast, is known for its small class sizes and personalised supervision. This program is suitable for international students who wish to pursue a research career in law, with a strong emphasis on producing a thesis of publishable quality.
As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), this course requires students to conduct independent research that makes a significant and original contribution to legal knowledge. While the specific thesis topic is developed with a supervisor, students typically engage in advanced legal research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and discipline-specific scholarship. The CRICOS register lists this course under Law, n.f.d., indicating it covers broad legal principles rather than a specialised area. Students are expected to have a strong foundation in legal studies and research. Bond University provides access to legal databases, libraries, and research support. Upon completion, graduates may pursue careers in academia, legal consultancy, or public policy.
The Doctor of Legal Science (Research) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not include foundation studies or a VET component. Students are expected to be enrolled full-time and to reside on the Gold Coast or nearby to access campus facilities and supervision. Bond University operates on a trimester system, allowing for intensive research periods. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$174,800 total, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$174,800. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. Bond University sets these fees and they are subject to change. For current fees, always check the provider's website at bond.edu.au. As a guide, living costs on the Gold Coast are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging A$250–$400 for shared accommodation, groceries A$60–$100, and public transport around A$30–$50.
English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) is typically required. For a doctoral-level program, applicants are expected to hold a master's degree or honours degree in law or a related field, often with a research component. Prior research experience or a demonstrated capacity for independent research is usually essential. Bond University may also consider relevant professional experience. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; refer to Bond University's website for detailed entry criteria. Always verify requirements directly with the institution as they may change.
No work component is included in this course. The Doctor of Legal Science (Research) is a research degree involving supervised thesis work, with no mandatory work placement. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This flexibility allows students to supplement their income while studying.
This course is delivered at Bond University's Gold Coast campus in ROBINA, QLD. The Gold Coast is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including major universities and vocational colleges. The city has a growing international student population, excellent public transport links via the G:link light rail and buses, and a vibrant lifestyle. Living costs are generally lower than in bigger capitals. The campus is located in Robina, a suburb with easy access to shopping, accommodation, and the M1 motorway to Brisbane.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) for this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. As a doctoral student, you may also be eligible for post-study work rights. The student visa allows work of 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited hours during breaks. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, guaranteeing access to refund policies and complaint mechanisms. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest conditions.
The Gold Coast offers a unique blend of urban and beachside living, with a warm climate year-round. For doctoral students, the city provides a quiet environment conducive to research, while still offering entertainment and outdoor activities. The cost of living is moderate: average weekly rent for a studio or share house is around A$300–$400, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$50–$60 (with student discounts available). The student community is diverse, with many international students from Asia and the Americas. Bond University is located in Robina, a thriving business and education precinct. Consider your research focus and supervision needs when choosing this location.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Legal Science (Research) at Bond University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Law), and location (Gold Coast). You can also search for Bond University's profile. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution. Check entry requirements, English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and application deadlines. Submit your research proposal, academic transcripts, and references. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Bond University accepts you, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget to arrange OSHC and show financial capacity.
Explore more doctoral law courses on HeadStart Academy or view Bond University's profile.
Doctor of Legal Science (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bond University. 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.