Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) (CRICOS course code 096917E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows students to undertake a joint PhD between Monash University in Australia and Leipzig University in Germany, combining expertise across natural and physical sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00008C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offer over 26,433 courses, and this PhD is among the highest-level qualifications available. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—no commissions, no referral fees. The program is delivered at Monash Clayton campus in Melbourne, Victoria, a city with a vibrant student population and excellent research infrastructure. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) (CRICOS course code 096917E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 4 years (208 weeks). The program falls under the field of education 019999 - Natural and Physical Sciences, n.e.c., offering a unique opportunity to conduct research in collaboration with Leipzig University. PhD candidates typically produce a thesis that makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge. Monash University is a Group of Eight institution, consistently ranked among the world's top universities. The Clayton campus is located in Melbourne's southeast, with access to world-class laboratories and libraries. Data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) confirms that this course is open to international students, with English as the language of instruction.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) is a research degree where you will undertake an independent, supervised research project in a field within natural and physical sciences. Graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of a substantial body of knowledge, develop new knowledge through original research, and communicate findings to peers and the broader community. While specific syllabus details are set by Monash University, typical PhD milestones include a literature review, research proposal, data collection and analysis, thesis writing, and an oral defense. The joint structure with Leipzig University adds an international dimension, with periods of study in Germany. This field encompasses areas such as physics, chemistry, earth sciences, and interdisciplinary science. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to Australia's quality framework for higher education.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). The course is offered full-time in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. Study mode is on-campus at Monash Clayton. The language of instruction is English, and students must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education doctoral degree. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) are indicative at A$252,415 for the full 4-year program, as recorded on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should budget for additional costs such as thesis binding, travel for joint research activities, and materials. The estimated total is A$252,415. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (including rent, groceries, and transport), and the student visa application charge are not included. For current fee information, always check Monash University's website directly. Melbourne's cost of living may range from A$500 to A$800 per week for a single student, depending on lifestyle. Fees are subject to change by the institution.
Entry into the Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) typically requires a prior qualification at the master's level or a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8 or equivalent) in a relevant field. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, with an expected IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band lower than 6.0) or equivalent. Monash University also considers research experience and proposal strength. Some applicants may need to complete a preliminary research training program. Foundation or pathway options are not standard for PhD entry; candidates should directly consult the provider for specific requirements. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy recommends verifying entry criteria with the institution and preparing a strong research proposal.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities in Melbourne are diverse, with many universities and research institutes offering casual positions. It's important to balance work with study commitments to maintain satisfactory course progress.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) is delivered at Monash Clayton, located in the suburb of Clayton, Victoria. Clayton is about 20 km southeast of Melbourne's central business district. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains and buses, with direct services to the city. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and multiple CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. The city is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable, with strong research infrastructure and culture. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–A$350 and groceries around A$80–A$120.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS-registered course, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. Dependents may accompany the student. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) at Monash University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Victoria). 2) Apply directly to Monash University – meet English requirements (IELTS 6.5-7.0), prepare a research proposal, and submit academic transcripts and references by the application deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once offered a place, accept and pay the deposit, then use the CoE to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs.
Melbourne offers a dynamic research environment with over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering doctoral degrees. The city's cost of living is higher than regional areas but lower than Sydney. With a large international student community, support services are abundant. Public transport connects the Clayton campus to the city center in about 30 minutes. Consider your research interests and whether the joint program with Leipzig aligns with your career goals. HeadStart Academy provides this course page to help you make an informed decision, backed by data from the official CRICOS register.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Monash-Leipzig) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Monash University (Monash). 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.