Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119351M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in the field of Education (079999). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00103D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Federation University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for research and teaching across multiple campuses in Victoria. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-intensive qualification that requires candidates to produce a substantial thesis contributing original knowledge to the field. International students benefit from Australia’s ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and student support services. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119351M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 4 years (208 weeks). The course is classified under the field of Education (0799 - Other Education, 079999 - Education, n.e.c.), preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and leadership roles in education. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it represents the highest level of academic achievement in Australia. The program is offered in English and is available at three campuses: Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103G, Government) is a well-established institution with over 150 years of educational history. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring that international students receive quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Education (079999) involves advanced independent research under the supervision of experienced academics. Candidates develop a research proposal, conduct a literature review, collect and analyse data, and write a thesis of up to 100,000 words. The field of Education (n.e.c.) covers areas such as educational policy, curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and education technology. Graduates typically gain skills in critical analysis, research design, project management, and scholarly writing. While the exact syllabus varies by supervisor and topic, all PhD programs require a significant original contribution to knowledge. Federation University provides access to research facilities, libraries, and academic networks to support candidates throughout their studies.
The Doctor of Philosophy is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education course. Students are expected to be onshore for the duration of their program, unless specific off-campus research arrangements are approved by the institution. Federation University requires full-time enrolment for international student visa holders. The course is research-based with no formal coursework component, though candidates may attend seminars and workshops. It is important to note that the duration is indicative and may vary based on individual progress and research complexity.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy is A$118,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are A$455, bringing the estimated total to A$118,455. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Should the program take longer than 4 years, additional tuition fees may apply. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this total. Living costs in Victoria vary by location: Ballarat (regional) typically requires A$300–400 per week for rent, while Berwick (outer Melbourne) may be A$350–450, and Churchill (Gippsland) around A$250–350. Students should budget for groceries (A$80–120/week), transport (A$30–50/week), and other personal expenses. For the most current fees, visit Federation University Australia's website: www.federation.edu.au.
Applicants to the Doctor of Philosophy must meet English language proficiency requirements, typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5). A master’s degree or bachelor’s degree with honours (AQF Level 8 or equivalent) is generally expected. Prior research experience or a research proposal aligned with the university’s expertise is often required. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this level. International students should check specific entry requirements with Federation University Australia, as academic criteria may vary by discipline. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider directly for precise admission conditions. All entry requirements are subject to change and should be verified at the time of application.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain valuable experience and financial support while studying. It is important to balance work and study commitments, as academic progress is a condition of the visa.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at three campuses of Federation University Australia: Ballarat (Mt Helen Campus) in Ballarat, VIC; Berwick Campus in Berwick, VIC; and Gippsland Campus in Churchill, VIC. Ballarat is a regional city with a population of approximately 110,000, known for its historic architecture and growing education sector. Berwick is a rapidly developing suburb in Melbourne’s outer south-east, offering access to the city via train (approx. 1 hour to Melbourne CBD). Churchill is a small town in the Latrobe Valley, close to natural attractions and with a tight-knit community. Each campus has dedicated research facilities and support services. Federation University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, which collectively offer more than 26,000 courses. When choosing a campus, consider proximity to accommodation, transport, and lifestyle preferences.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Federation University Australia, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. Post-study work rights may be available after graduation, depending on the qualification level and location (regional campuses may offer additional benefits). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy at Federation University Australia: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Federation University Australia is registered (CRICOS 00103D). HeadStart Academy’s free search tool can help you filter by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Federation University’s website (www.federation.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, research proposal, and supporting documents. Some courses may require an interview or supervisor nomination. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Federation University will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial requirements. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
A PhD in Education is a significant commitment requiring self-motivation and deep passion for research. Consider factors such as supervision expertise — check if Federation University has faculty members aligned with your research interests. Location also matters: regional campuses may offer lower living costs but limited networking opportunities compared to capital cities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, but only a subset offer doctoral programs. Compare universities online via the CRICOS register. Financial planning is crucial: the indicative fee of A$118,000 does not include living expenses or OSHC. Budget for at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (Australian Government threshold). Finally, post-study work rights: regional study (e.g., Ballarat or Churchill) may qualify for a second temporary graduate visa (Subclass 485) with extended stay. Always check current immigration policies at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to apply? Visit Federation University Australia's website to start your application for Doctor of Philosophy (119351M).
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.