Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Non Lab Based) (CRICOS course code 103019K) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Charles Sturt University (CSU) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program sits within the broad field of Management and Commerce, focusing on advanced research in business, justice, and behavioural sciences without laboratory-based requirements. Charles Sturt University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00005F), offers this course across six campuses in regional New South Wales: Albury-Thurgoona, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie, and Wagga Wagga. Designed for international students aiming to undertake independent research, this PhD prepares graduates for academic, policy, and leadership roles. The indicative tuition fee is A$140,800, with non-tuition fees of A$1,472, totalling an estimated A$142,272. Students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. Entry typically requires an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall and a prior research master's degree or equivalent. As a non-lab based PhD, you will engage in theoretical, quantitative, or qualitative research within the social sciences and business disciplines. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative only. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you explore CRICOS-registered courses across Australia, covering 26,433 courses from 1,556 providers.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) falls under the field of education code 089999 - Management and Commerce, n.e.c. As a non-lab based research program, you will not be required to conduct experiments in a physical laboratory. Instead, the focus is on theoretical, conceptual, and empirical research using methods such as surveys, interviews, document analysis, statistical modelling, or case studies. The broad field of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences encompasses disciplines like organisational behaviour, criminology, social justice, management, marketing, and human resources. At this level, candidates are expected to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge through a thesis or equivalent body of work. You will develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to communicate complex ideas. Charles Sturt University (CSU) provides research training and supervision across its faculties, with access to digital libraries, data analysis software, and academic writing support. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, government research, policy development, or senior management roles in the private and public sectors.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years, equating to 208 weeks. It is offered as a single qualification (no dual awards) with instruction in English. There is no foundation studies component nor VET national code, as it is a higher education doctoral program. Students are expected to study full-time to meet visa requirements, though part-time options may be available under certain circumstances with approval. The course is research-intensive, requiring sustained engagement with supervisors and periodic progress reviews. All six delivery locations offer the same course, so you can choose a campus that suits your lifestyle and research interests. Each campus provides access to library resources, study spaces, and student support services.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$140,800, based on CRICOS register data as at April 2026. In addition, non-tuition fees of A$1,472 cover items such as student services and amenities fees, bringing the estimated total to A$142,272. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (estimate A$600–A$1,000 per year for single cover). Living costs vary by location; for regional NSW cities like Wagga Wagga or Bathurst, weekly rent ranges from A$150–A$300 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport approximately A$30–A$60. The student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) is also additional. Always check the current fees on Charles Sturt University's official website at www.csu.edu.au before applying. Fees are subject to change and are not guaranteed.
English language proficiency is a key requirement, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 typically expected (no band below 6.0). Equivalent scores from other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Academically, you will need a research master's degree or a bachelor's degree with honours (Class 2A or above) in a related field. Some applicants may enter via a master by coursework with a substantial research component. Charles Sturt University (CSU) assesses each application individually, considering prior publications, research experience, and supervisor availability. There are no foundation or pathway options built into this course, but you may consider pre-research training programs if you lack a research background. Always consult the provider's website for exact requirements and to connect with potential supervisors.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research-only doctoral program with no integrated internship, placement, or industry experience requirement. However, you may seek casual work or research assistantships during your studies, subject to visa conditions. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with your research progress.
Charles Sturt University (CSU) delivers this course at six campuses across regional New South Wales: Albury-Thurgoona (near the Murray River and Victoria border), Bathurst (central tablelands, historic gold rush city), Dubbo (inland city, agricultural hub), Orange (cool climate wine region, growing city), Port Macquarie (coastal town on the Mid North Coast, campus at 7 Major Innes Road), and Wagga Wagga (largest inland city in NSW, major regional centre). Each campus has its own student community and support services. Regional NSW generally offers lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne, with public transport connections between cities. The city-specific context: Albury-Wodonga has a population of about 90,000, Bathurst 40,000, Dubbo 40,000, Orange 40,000, Port Macquarie 50,000, and Wagga Wagga 55,000. These cities have a mix of Australian and international students, and all have CRICOS-registered providers (over 10 providers in NSW regional areas combined). Access to campuses is usually via local bus services or car.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course in Australia. This visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold OSHC for the duration. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session (starting 1 July 2023, the work cap is 48 hours per fortnight) and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, travel) is required at visa application. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed information. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agency; consult a registered MARA agent for advice.
Applying for this PhD at Charles Sturt University (CSU) involves a straightforward three-step process. First, research CRICOS-registered providers and courses that match your research interests. Use HeadStart Academy to compare fields and locations. Second, apply directly to Charles Sturt University by preparing your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test scores, and referee reports. Check application deadlines (typically no fixed closing date but expect at least 3-4 months lead time). Third, if accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and sufficient funds. For step-by-step guidance, refer to the university's international admissions page.
Ready to explore your PhD options? Use HeadStart Academy to compare more than 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across Australia. Find your ideal program today!
Doctor of Philosophy (Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences - Non 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.