Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 115637G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute over 1 year 7 months (~84 weeks). This program is classified under Field of Education 090701 - Psychology (Behavioural Science), offering advanced research training in psychology. The Cairnmillar Institute (CRICOS 03530E) is a private provider based in Hawthorn East, Victoria, with a strong focus on clinical psychology and psychotherapy. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it meets the Australian Government's standards for delivering courses to international students. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this page uses data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commission or referral fees.
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Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 115637G) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute. The program runs for 1 year 7 months (~84 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course includes a substantial work component of 72 weeks at 40 hours per week (total ~2880 hours), providing industry placement or clinical experience. The Cairnmillar Institute is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03530E) located in Hawthorn East, Victoria, and has been offering psychology and counselling training for decades.
This research degree focuses on Behavioural Science, specifically Psychology (090701). Students typically engage in advanced study of psychological theories, research methodologies, and specialised areas such as clinical psychology, neuropsychology, or organisational psychology. The program culminates in a substantial research thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates develop skills in critical analysis, experimental design, data interpretation, and scholarly communication. While the exact curriculum is set by The Cairnmillar Institute, AQF Level 9 research degrees are designed to produce independent researchers capable of leading investigations in their discipline.
The Doctor of Philosophy at The Cairnmillar Institute is a full-time program lasting 1 year 7 months (~84 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. No foundation studies component is included. Students are expected to devote significant time to research, with a work-integrated learning component of 72 weeks (40 hrs/week) integrated into the program.
Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$112,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$112,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. Living costs in Victoria are estimated at A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. Always confirm fees directly with The Cairnmillar Institute at www.cairnmillar.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a research degree at AQF 9, most providers expect an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (with no band below 7.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: applicants usually require a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master's degree in a related field. The Cairnmillar Institute may also consider relevant professional experience. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this course – refer to the provider for specific academic requirements. Note: This is general guidance; always check entry requirements directly with The Cairnmillar Institute.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component of 72 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 2880 hours. This is typically a clinical placement, industry internship, or research practicum where students apply their learning in real-world settings. For a psychology research degree, placements often occur in clinics, community health centres, or research institutes, providing hands-on experience under supervision. The exact nature of the work component is determined by The Cairnmillar Institute and aligns with professional accreditation requirements.
This course is delivered at The Cairnmillar Institute in Hawthorn East, Victoria. Hawthorn East is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km east of the CBD. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Public transport includes trams and trains, with easy access to the city. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate – expect A$400–600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. The campus is in a quiet residential area, close to cafes and shops.
International students enrolled in this Doctor of Philosophy will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of the visa. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Note: Student visa conditions can change – always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa applications.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy at The Cairnmillar Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. Filter by Masters Degree (Research) in Psychology in Victoria. 2. Apply directly to The Cairnmillar Institute: Check entry requirements (including English test scores – typically IELTS 7.0), prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, and references. Submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy and then apply directly to The Cairnmillar Institute.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Cairnmillar Institute. 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.