Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119327M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 qualification is designed for students who wish to pursue original research in Creative Arts, specifically under the field 'Other Creative Arts'. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00103D), it is open to international students. Federation University Australia is a government-owned university with campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland, Victoria. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance. Always verify details directly with the provider.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest level of academic qualification, typically requiring independent research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. At Federation University Australia, this course is classified under Field of Education 109999 (Creative Arts, n.e.c.). Students develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to produce a substantial thesis. The course is delivered over 208 weeks (4 years) in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies. International students benefit from Australia's ESOS Act protections, ensuring educational quality and consumer rights. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses.
This PhD program is centered on original research in the creative arts. Students will engage in supervised research, literature review, methodology development, and thesis writing. The field 'Other Creative Arts' encompasses diverse practices such as visual arts, performing arts, creative writing, and interdisciplinary creative projects. Graduates typically acquire skills in independent thinking, project management, scholarly communication, and ethical research conduct. The specific research topic is developed in consultation with supervisors and must align with the university's research strengths. Federation University Australia has active research groups in regional arts, cultural heritage, and digital creativity.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 208 weeks (4 years) full-time. The language of instruction is English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to be on-campus for supervision and access to facilities, though some research may be conducted off-site. Federation University Australia offers flexible arrangements subject to university policy. The course is a single qualification at AQF Level 10.
Tuition fee: A$118,000 (indicative for the full 4 years). Non-tuition fees: A$455 (includes student services and amenities fee). Estimated total: A$118,455. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge (Subclass 500). For current fees, always check Federation University Australia's website. As a guide, living costs in Victoria vary: Ballarat is more affordable than Melbourne, with weekly rent A$200-350; Berwick and Gippsland are also moderate.
English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (no band below 6.0-6.5, depending on the field). Applicants must hold an AQF Level 9 (Master's degree) or equivalent with a research component, or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) with demonstrated research capability. Some applicants may be admitted based on extensive professional experience and published work. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this level; refer to Federation University Australia for specific entry criteria and alternative pathways.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship placement. However, student visa holders are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at three campuses of Federation University Australia, all in Victoria: Ballarat (main campus), Berwick (south-east Melbourne), and Gippsland (Churchill). Each campus offers research facilities and supervision in creative arts. Ballarat is a regional city with a vibrant arts scene and lower living costs. Berwick is a growing suburb in Melbourne's outer east, with easy access to Melbourne CBD via public transport (train). Gippsland is a regional area known for its natural environment. All campuses are well-connected by public transport. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, and Melbourne's student population exceeds 200,000.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. Upon graduation, students may be eligible for post-study work visas. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. Consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Victoria is a leading destination for doctoral studies, with a high concentration of universities and research institutes. Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. For a PhD in Creative Arts, Victoria offers a thriving cultural scene, galleries, festivals, and industry connections. Regional campuses like Ballarat and Gippsland provide a quieter environment and lower cost of living. Consider your research area, supervision availability, and lifestyle preferences when choosing a location. Federation University's campuses are well-equipped with libraries, labs, and studio spaces.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree) and location (Victoria). Compare Federation University Australia's offerings with other providers. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check specific entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy at Federation University Australia. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0). Meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once the university issues your CoE, submit your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents.
Explore more Doctoral Degrees in Victoria or compare this course with other PhD programs in Creative Arts.
Doctor of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.