Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) (CRICOS course code 117035F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This program is designed for high-cost research fields, offering intensive supervision and access to world-class facilities. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 00109J), international students are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and study in Australia. The University of Newcastle is a public research university with campuses in Callaghan and Ourimbah, New South Wales. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course, including fees, entry requirements, locations, and visa guidance. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative.
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Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a full-time research degree at AQF Level 10 (Doctoral Degree). It falls under the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (code 129999). As a PhD, students are expected to undertake original research that contributes significantly to knowledge. The 'High Cost' designation reflects resource-intensive disciplines such as laboratory-based sciences, engineering, or clinical research. The program is delivered over 208 weeks (4 years) with no mandatory work component. The University of Newcastle (UoN) is a leading Australian university with strong research output and international collaborations. Students benefit from expert supervision, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a vibrant research community. The course is taught entirely in English, and no dual qualification or foundation studies are attached.
As a Doctoral Degree, the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) does not have a prescribed coursework syllabus; instead, it centers on an independent research project under the guidance of a supervisory panel. Students develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, data interpretation, and scholarly writing. The field of education 'Mixed Field Programmes' indicates that the research may span multiple disciplines, allowing for interdisciplinary approaches. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, industry R&D, and high-level professional roles. Typically, candidates must produce a thesis of 80,000–100,000 words and defend it in an oral examination. The University of Newcastle provides research training programs and access to resources like the University Library and research centres.
The duration of this course is 4 years (208 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Full-time study is required; part-time options may be available for domestic students but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a combined degree. Students are expected to be on campus for their research activities, though some fieldwork or off-site work may be part of the project. The University of Newcastle offers a supportive environment with workshops, writing groups, and progress reviews to ensure timely completion.
Tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition fee is A$223,364 for the full program (international student rate). Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$1,608, bringing the estimated total to A$224,972. This amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For a single international student, OSHC typically costs around A$600–A$1,000 per year. Living expenses in Newcastle are lower than in Sydney: weekly rent A$200–A$350, groceries A$100–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50. Always confirm current fees with The University of Newcastle via their website www.newcastle.edu.au.
To be considered for the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost), applicants typically need a Master's degree (by research) or a Bachelor's degree with Honours (Class I or IIA) in a relevant field. English language proficiency is required: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0); other tests like TOEFL or PTE are accepted. Some disciplines may require higher scores. The University of Newcastle also considers prior research experience and publications. No foundation or pathway programs are directly integrated into this course, but applicants who do not meet the English requirement may consider the University's English language programs. It is essential to check specific entry requirements on the provider's website before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, PhD students may engage in teaching or research assistant roles within the university, subject to department approval and visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any paid work must not interfere with study progress.
The Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is delivered at two campuses of The University of Newcastle: Callaghan (the main campus in CALLAGHAN, NSW) and Central Coast (Ourimbah, NSW). Callaghan is located about 12 km from Newcastle city centre, a major regional city with a population of over 500,000. Ourimbah is on the Central Coast, approximately 100 km north of Sydney. Both campuses are accessible by public transport and offer research facilities. Newcastle has a large international student community, with over 40 CRICOS-registered providers in the city and surrounding areas. Living costs in Newcastle are moderate; a single student might budget around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. The Central Coast is more affordable but less connected by train to Sydney.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa requires you to be enrolled in a full-time course of study (this course qualifies). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, showing you intend to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity: you need to show you have enough funds for travel, tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for a single student), and dependent costs if applicable. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights, including tuition fee protection and course quality standards.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) at The University of Newcastle: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter doctoral degrees in New South Wales. Verify that The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) is registered for this course (code 117035F). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, referees, and English test results. Check application deadlines – typically multiple intake periods per year. Submit your application via the University's online portal. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If accepted, the university issues a CoE. Use this to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Once granted, you can travel to Australia and commence your PhD.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore the Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) at The University of Newcastle and start your application today.
Doctor of Philosophy (High Cost) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.