Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Lab Based) (CRICOS course code 103018M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 research-intensive program is designed for students who want to make a significant contribution to knowledge in the fields of business, justice, and behavioural sciences. With a focus on lab-based research, candidates will work under the supervision of experienced academics at one of Australia's leading regional universities. Charles Sturt University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00005F) with campuses across New South Wales. The CRICOS register ensures that this course meets Australian Government standards for international education. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses to international students, giving you a wide range of choices. This PhD program is ideal for those seeking a career in academia, research, or senior professional roles in management, justice, or social sciences.
This doctoral degree falls under the broad field of Management and Commerce (08), specifically Other Management and Commerce (0899) and Management and Commerce, n.e.c. (089999). At AQF Level 10, candidates are expected to undertake original research that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge. You will learn advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. The lab-based component means you will have access to research facilities and laboratory equipment to conduct experiments or gather data. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to design and execute a research project, analyse complex data, defend your findings, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. While the exact curriculum is determined by your supervisors, the program emphasizes independent inquiry and academic rigor.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification — not a dual degree or combined program. Full-time study is expected, and the program may require continuous enrolment including during standard university breaks. As a research degree, there may be flexibility in study schedule, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Lab Based) are indicative at A$161,280 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, and student services) are estimated at A$1,472, bringing the estimated total to A$162,752. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. You should always confirm current fees with Charles Sturt University (CSU) at www.csu.edu.au. Important: These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Subclass 500 visa. Living costs vary by location — students in regional NSW cities like Wagga Wagga or Bathurst typically budget around A$350–A$500 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Use the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity requirements as a guide.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) in a relevant discipline. Charles Sturt University sets its own specific criteria, which may include research experience, publications, or a demonstrated capacity for research. English language proficiency is essential: the guide is IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to complete a specific pathway or foundation program, such as a research master's, to qualify. Always check the provider's website for detailed entry requirements and application deadlines. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course has no work component. It does not include mandatory work experience, internships, or practical placement. However, as a research student, you may engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university, which are optional and subject to visa work rights. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but work must not interfere with your studies.
This program is delivered at multiple campuses of Charles Sturt University across New South Wales: Albury – Thurgoona, Bathurst – Bathurst, Dubbo – Dubbo, Orange – Orange, Port Macquarie (7 Major Innes Road), and Wagga Wagga – Wagga Wagga. Each campus offers a unique regional study experience. For example, Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in NSW with a strong student population, affordable living costs, and good public transport. Bathurst is a historic city with a vibrant campus community. Port Macquarie offers a coastal lifestyle. All campuses provide library, lab, and support services for research students. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, cost of living, and proximity to research facilities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. The visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet course progress requirements, and comply with work conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You must have OSHC for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection, refund rights, and support services.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Lab Based) at Charles Sturt University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter for doctoral degrees in Management and Commerce in NSW. Confirm that Charles Sturt University (CRICOS 00005F) offers this exact course. 2. Apply directly to Charles Sturt University. Check entry requirements: you'll need academic transcripts, research proposal, English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall), and references. Application deadlines vary by trimester. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need for the visa application. Submit your visa application online with all required documents, including OSHC. Do not purchase travel tickets until your visa is granted.
Find out more about studying this course at Charles Sturt University or use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered doctoral programs.
Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Lab Based) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Sturt University (CSU). 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.