Doctor of Education (CRICOS course code 117332H) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for education professionals seeking to advance their expertise through rigorous research and scholarship. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. La Trobe University (CRICOS 00115M) is a public university with campuses across Victoria, offering this doctorate in multiple locations. Whether you aim to lead educational policy, innovate teaching practice, or conduct high-level research, this program provides the framework. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource – all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course listed here.
The Doctor of Education falls under the field of Education (broad field 07) and is classified as ‘079999 - Education, n.e.c.’. At the Doctoral Degree level (AQF Level 10), students are expected to undertake original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in their area of study. Graduates typically develop advanced skills in critical analysis, research methodology, and scholarly writing. While specific curriculum details are set by La Trobe University, doctoral candidates usually complete a supervised research thesis, and may also engage in coursework components. This course is ideal for experienced educators, school leaders, policy advisors, and researchers aiming to address complex issues in education. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – this doctorate is one of many pathways for international students seeking high-level qualifications.
According to the CRICOS register, the Doctor of Education has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – not a dual or combined degree. The course does not include a foundation studies program or a work component. Students should plan their finances and time accordingly, as doctoral degrees require sustained commitment. La Trobe University offers this program at several campuses, but the mode of study (e.g., on-campus, online, or blended) should be confirmed directly with the provider. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Doctor of Education is A$149,600 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but this may not cover additional costs such as materials, field trips, or thesis submission fees. The estimated total is A$149,600. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are NOT included. International students must budget for OSHC (minimum single cover around A$600-$900 per year), living costs (estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student according to Home Affairs guidelines), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For the most current and accurate fee information, always visit the provider’s website: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international. HeadStart Academy displays fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 – they are indicative and subject to change.
Entry to a doctoral degree typically requires a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with honours (AQF Level 8) in a relevant field, along with research experience. For the Doctor of Education, La Trobe University may also consider significant professional experience in education. English language proficiency is a key requirement – the indicative IELTS requirement is 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5, or higher depending on the provider). Some universities accept equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE. International students should check the specific entry criteria on La Trobe’s website. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, foundation or pathway programs may be available – consult the provider for options. Remember, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the university makes the final decision. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the admissions office directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you may be eligible to work while studying. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, so always check your specific visa grant conditions. While there is no work-integrated learning in this program, doctoral students often engage in teaching or research assistance roles at the university. Note that work should not interfere with your study commitment, as maintaining satisfactory course progress is a visa requirement.
The Doctor of Education is delivered at five campuses of La Trobe University across Victoria: Albury-Wodonga Campus (Wodonga), Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill), Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (Bundoora), Mildura Campus (Mildura), and Shepparton Campus (Shepparton). Each location offers a unique study environment. The Melbourne (Bundoora) campus is the largest, located in the northern suburbs of Melbourne – a city with a student population of over 200,000 and excellent public transport via tram, train, and bus. Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga are regional cities with lower living costs (weekly rent ~$150-$250 for a room) and a close-knit community. Shepparton and Mildura also offer affordable living. When choosing a location, consider factors like supervision availability, research facilities, and lifestyle preferences. All campuses are CRICOS-registered for this course. For more context on VIC study options, see our state page (/states/vic).
International students enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency. The visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time. As part of the application, you will need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from La Trobe University. OSHC is mandatory – it covers medical care but not dental or optical. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions vary, so always refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend homeaffairs.gov.au for official guidance.
Applying for this doctorate involves a straightforward process. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use the HeadStart Academy directory to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Education), and location (Victoria). Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered; La Trobe University holds CRICOS 00115M. Step 2: Apply directly to La Trobe University – check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, gather academic transcripts, and meet English language test scores. Application deadlines vary, so visit latrobe.edu.au/international for details. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once La Trobe issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and genuine temporary entrant statement. Processing times can take several weeks, so apply early.
Victoria is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering Doctoral Degrees in Education, including La Trobe University. Studying in Victoria gives you access to world-class universities, vibrant cities, and regional hubs. Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the most liveable cities globally, with a diverse student community. Regional campuses offer a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. For international students, yearly living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$25,000-$30,000 (covering rent, food, transport), while regional areas can be 20-30% cheaper. Public transport in Melbourne is extensive; regional campuses are serviced by V/Line trains. Consider your research interests – La Trobe’s Education faculty has strengths in leadership, curriculum, and inclusive education. Also, ensure supervision is available for your proposed topic. Always verify CRICOS registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au before committing.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more doctoral degrees in Education and compare CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register – free, no commissions.
Doctor of Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.