Doctor of Philosophy (Population Health) (CRICOS course code 118075A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This research-intensive program equips students with advanced skills in population health science, preparing them for leadership roles in academia, policy, and global health. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00098G), international students can study at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, one of Australia's most multicultural cities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, choosing a doctoral program requires careful consideration of research strengths, supervision, and career pathways. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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As a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10), the Doctor of Philosophy (Population Health) focuses on independent research in public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, or related fields. Students develop a thesis that contributes new knowledge to population health. Graduates typically gain expertise in research design, data analysis, and evidence-based decision-making, preparing them for careers in universities, research institutes, government agencies, and international health organisations. UNSW's Faculty of Medicine and Health offers world-class supervision across diverse health disciplines.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 208 weeks (4 years) of full-time study. All instruction is in English, and the program is a single qualification. Students are expected to complete a substantial research thesis. As a research degree, part-time study may be available but can affect visa conditions; international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to study full-time. UNSW also offers research training workshops and resources to support candidates throughout their candidature.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register for 2026: tuition is A$236,000 for the full program, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$4,000 (including materials and services). The estimated total cost is A$240,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. Living costs in Sydney are approximately A$500–700 per week for a single student, depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. These fees are indicative and set by UNSW; always confirm current fees on the provider's website before applying.
Entry into a doctoral program typically requires a master's degree by research or a bachelor's degree with honours in a relevant field. UNSW expects applicants to have a strong academic record and demonstrated research capabilities. English language proficiency is required, with IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) being a common benchmark. Some applicants may take pathway programs such as a Graduate Diploma in Research Studies. Because entry criteria can vary, you should check UNSW's specific requirements directly. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility – consult the provider or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, UNSW may offer opportunities for casual tutoring or research assistance. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Population Health) is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is an inner-southern suburb of Sydney, Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million. Sydney hosts more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a top study destination. The UNSW campus is well connected by public transport, including buses and light rail, with Central Station about 5 km away. Living costs are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a studio apartment around $400–600.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs ($24,505 per year for a single student in 2026). Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory. Student visa holders have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights to quality education and refunds if the provider ceases to deliver.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Population Health) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Public Health), and location (NSW). Use HeadStart Academy's search to compare options.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UNSW's entry requirements, including English test scores (IELTS 6.5-7.0), academic qualifications, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal and contact potential supervisors.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UNSW issues a CoE. Apply for a Subclass 500 visa via the Department of Home Affairs. HeadsStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa assistance.
Sydney offers a vibrant academic and cultural environment for doctoral candidates. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers nationwide, Sydney alone hosts top universities and research institutes. UNSW is a global leader in public health research, with strong links to hospitals and health agencies. The city's cost of living is high, but scholarships and research stipends may be available. Public transport connects all major campuses, and the city's multicultural community supports international students. Consider your research interests, supervision availability, and budget when choosing a location.
Apply now through UNSW's admissions portal
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Doctor of Philosophy (Population Health) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.