Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119402E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 4 years. This research-intensive program falls under the field of Human Movement (069903), exploring advanced topics in health and physical activity sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government quality standards for international students. Federation University is a public university with multiple campuses in Victoria, offering PhD candidates access to dedicated supervisors and research facilities. With an indicative total fee of A$144,455, this program prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and industry leadership. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Federation University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00103D), ensuring quality assurance. The program is delivered at three locations: Ballarat, Berwick, and Churchill (Gippsland), each offering a unique student experience. Prospective candidates must meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5-7.0) and prior research qualifications.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (CRICOS 119402E) is an AQF Level 10 Doctoral Degree offered by Federation University Australia, a government-owned public university. The course is registered under field of education 069903 (Human Movement) and has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This program is designed for international students seeking to conduct original research in human movement sciences, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor control. As a CRICOS-registered course, it guarantees that the provider meets Australian Government standards for teaching, facilities, and student support. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) is one of over 1,556 providers listed on CRICOS as of April 2026. All international students enrolled in this course are protected by the ESOS Act, which ensures tuition protection and quality assurance. The PhD involves a supervised research project culminating in a thesis, with no coursework component.
This Doctoral Degree in Human Movement equips graduates with advanced research skills and deep knowledge of physical activity, health, and performance. Typical areas of study include biomechanics (analysis of human motion), exercise physiology (response of the body to exercise), motor control and learning, and sports psychology. The program is research-focused: students design and conduct original research under the guidance of experienced supervisors. They develop expertise in experimental design, data analysis, scholarly writing, and critical evaluation of literature. Graduates often pursue academic careers, research positions in sports institutes, or leadership roles in health and rehabilitation sectors. Federation University's research strengths include regional health, sport science, and community wellbeing. While the exact syllabus depends on the student's research topic, the PhD generally involves regular supervisory meetings, progress reviews, and opportunities to present at conferences.
The Doctor of Philosophy is registered on the CRICOS register with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — not a dual award — and does not include foundation studies or a VET component. The program is delivered full-time on campus at one of three Federation University locations. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500). Part-time study is generally not permitted for visa holders. The 208-week duration allows for the full research and thesis writing process, including ethics approvals and data collection. Students are expected to complete within the registered duration, though extensions may be possible in exceptional circumstances with provider approval.
Indicative tuition fee for the entire Doctor of Philosophy program is A$144,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$455, resulting in an estimated total of A$144,455. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Federation University Australia. The non-tuition fee may cover student services, orientation, or administrative costs. Important: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (estimated at A$600–A$800 per year for single cover). Living costs in Victoria vary by location: Ballarat and Gippsland offer lower weekly rent (A$250–A$400), while Berwick (outer Melbourne) is slightly higher (A$350–A$500). The Australian Government recommends a living cost budget of at least A$25,000 per year. The Visa Application Charge (VAC) for a Student visa is currently A$1,600. Always check the latest fees on the Federation University website before applying.
General entry requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy at Federation University include a relevant Master's degree by research or a Bachelor's degree with honours (Class IIA or higher) demonstrating research capability. The field of Human Movement may require a background in exercise science, physiology, or a related discipline. English language proficiency: an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.5) or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 79–94, PTE Academic 58–65). Some departments may require a higher score. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, showing genuine intention to study and return home after completion. Applicants typically need to submit a research proposal and identify a potential supervisor. For detailed entry criteria, contact Federation University directly or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). This course does not offer foundation or pathway programs; candidates must meet prerequisites.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, PhD candidates often engage in casual academic work (tutoring, marking), research assistantships, or industry placements outside the program. Student visa (Subclass 500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled university breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work must not interfere with study progress. International students should ensure they have adequate financial support to cover living expenses, as reliance on work income can affect visa compliance. For more information on work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The Doctor of Philosophy is delivered at three Federation University Australia campuses in Victoria: - Federation University Ballarat (Ballarat, VIC): A regional city about 90 minutes from Melbourne. Ballarat has a student population of around 30,000, with weekly rent averaging A$300–A$400. The campus is well-served by public transport and offers a historic learning environment. - Federation University Berwick (Berwick, VIC): Located in Melbourne's outer southeast, Berwick is a growing suburb with access to train services. Weekly rent is around A$350–A$500. The campus is modern and close to shopping centres. - Federation University Gippsland (Churchill, VIC): A regional campus in the Latrobe Valley, about 2 hours from Melbourne. Churchill offers a low cost of living (weekly rent A$250–A$350) and a close-knit community. Each campus provides resources such as libraries, computer labs, and student support services. Students choose their primary location based on supervisor availability and research facilities.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Philosophy must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) unless exempt. Key requirements include a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Federation University, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions also require maintaining satisfactory course progress and attendance. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Human Movement), and location (Victoria) to find courses like this one. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — Federation University Australia. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, CV, and letters of recommendation. Check application deadlines (typically rolling intake with start dates in February and July). Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Ensure you have paid your OSHC and provided evidence of financial capacity. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Start your PhD journey today—explore available research areas and apply to Federation University Australia.
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.