Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) (CRICOS course code 107402D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Sydney over 4 years. This research-intensive program allows you to pursue cutting-edge research in medicine and health at one of Australia's leading universities. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00026A), it is open to international students seeking to advance their academic and professional careers. The course is offered across three Sydney locations: Mallett Street Campus, Camperdown Campus (main), and Westmead Campus. With a strong focus on independent research, you will work under expert supervision to produce a thesis that contributes original knowledge to the health field. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) (CRICOS course code 107402D) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Sydney, a public university established in 1850 and registered with CRICOS (provider code 00026A). This program is designed for students who wish to undertake significant research in medical and health sciences. The field of education is Medical Studies, n.e.c. (060199), which encompasses interdisciplinary health research. As a doctoral candidate, you will develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to generate new knowledge that can influence health policy, clinical practice, or biomedical science. The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the world's top universities and is home to state-of-the-art research facilities. Graduates of this program typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, healthcare leadership, or specialist clinical roles. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual degree). It does not include a work component or foundation studies.
As a doctoral student in medicine and health, your study will be almost entirely research-based. You will work closely with your supervisor(s) to define a research question, design and conduct experiments or studies, and analyse data. The program typically includes some coursework in research methods, ethics, and communication, but the primary output is a substantial thesis of 80,000–100,000 words. You will also have opportunities to present your research at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals. The University of Sydney offers support through its research training programs, including workshops on grant writing, statistics, and academic writing. The exact research topic is developed collaboratively with your supervisor and must align with the university's research strengths in areas such as cancer biology, neuroscience, public health, infectious diseases, and clinical trials. This course is classified under the field of Medical Studies, n.e.c., meaning it covers areas not specifically listed elsewhere, allowing for a broad range of interdisciplinary health research.
According to the CRICOS register, the Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. The program is offered on a full-time basis only, with no part-time option available for international students due to visa conditions. It is a single qualification, not a dual award. There is no mandatory work component or vocational placement included. The course does not offer a foundation studies pathway — students must meet direct entry requirements. The University of Sydney expects doctoral candidates to be enrolled for a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 4 years to complete the thesis. Extensions may be possible under certain circumstances, but the standard CRICOS duration is 4 years.
The indicative fees for Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) as per the CRICOS register are: tuition A$0, non-tuition A$0, estimated total A$0. Please note that these fees are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The University of Sydney sets actual tuition fees, which are subject to change and may be significantly higher for international students. For accurate, up-to-date fees, you must check The University of Sydney's official website at http://sydney.edu.au. Additional costs not included in the CRICOS figures: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For 2024–25, the Australian Government estimates living costs at approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student. In Sydney, weekly rent ranges from A$250–450 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$40–50. Always budget accordingly and confirm fees directly with the provider.
Entry requirements for a Doctoral Degree in Medicine and Health typically include completion of a relevant bachelor's degree with honours (at least IIA or equivalent) or a master's degree with a research component. The University of Sydney expects applicants to have a strong academic record and research experience. The English language requirement is an overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some supervisors may require a higher band for specific projects. You must also submit a research proposal aligned with the university's research areas and secure a supervisor before applying. There are no foundation or pathway options for direct entry into this doctoral program; however, students who need to meet English or academic prerequisites may consider a pre-master's or research preparation course at alternative providers. Always verify specific requirements with The University of Sydney, as they can change. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility — consult the provider directly. For visa application, you must meet the GTE criterion and prove financial capacity.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, internship, or placement. As a doctoral student, you will be engaged primarily in research activities. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help supplement living costs, but should not interfere with your research commitments. The University of Sydney may offer teaching or research assistant positions, but these are not part of the course and are subject to separate arrangements.
Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) is delivered at three locations in Sydney, New South Wales: Mallett Street Campus in Camperdown, The University of Sydney's main Camperdown Campus, and Westmead Campus in Westmead. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 5 million residents, hosting more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The Camperdown campuses are located near the city centre and are well-served by public transport (buses, trains). Westmead Campus is a major health and research precinct in Western Sydney, with access to Westmead Hospital and research institutes. Students should consider commute times: Camperdown is about 10–20 minutes from the CBD by bus, while Westmead is about 30–40 minutes by train. Living costs vary by area; Camperdown is more expensive due to proximity to the city, while Westmead offers more affordable housing. The University of Sydney provides on-campus accommodation options, but early application is recommended.
International students enrolling in Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (up to 4 years) plus additional time if needed. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and dependents (if applicable), and meeting health and character requirements. As of 2024, the visa application charge is approximately A$1,600 (subject to change). OSHC is mandatory for the entire visa duration — the University of Sydney offers OSHC through Australian Health Management. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. It is important to maintain your enrolment and attendance as per visa conditions. For detailed guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for visa-specific advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) at The University of Sydney:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy's resources to confirm that the course (107402D) and provider (00026A) are registered. The University of Sydney is a CRICOS-registered provider, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protections.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit The University of Sydney's website (http://sydney.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test validity, and application deadlines. You will need to submit academic transcripts, a research proposal, and evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Secure a supervisor before applying — this is critical for doctoral programs. Applications are typically made through the Sydney Student portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once you receive a CoE from the university, you can apply for a student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need OSHC, financial evidence, and a valid passport. Processing times vary — apply early. Remember that visa grants are at the discretion of the Department; HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee outcomes.
Sydney offers a vibrant research environment with world-class universities and strong ties to the health industry. The University of Sydney's medical and health faculties are among the best in Australia, with access to major teaching hospitals and research centres. However, the cost of living in Sydney is high — expect to budget at least A$25,000–30,000 per year for living expenses (excluding tuition). The city also offers diverse cultural experiences, excellent public transport, and a large international student community. If you prefer a lower cost of living, consider regional campuses or other cities. For health research, Sydney's concentration of hospitals and biotech firms provides networking opportunities. Ultimately, your choice should align with your research interests and budget.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Visit The University of Sydney's website to apply, or explore more doctoral degrees in health at HeadStart Academy.
Joint Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine and Health) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.