Doctor of Philosophy (Aviation) (CRICOS course code 119836A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This CRICOS-registered program is offered at UNSW Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory, a premier location for aviation and defence research. As a research-intensive doctoral qualification, it sits at AQF Level 10, the highest level of tertiary education in Australia. International students considering this PhD will benefit from Australia’s strong aerospace industry and UNSW’s world-class research facilities. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and quality standards.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Aviation) (CRICOS course code 119836A) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 4 years. This course is classified under the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology, specifically Air Traffic Control (031507), reflecting its focus on advanced research in aviation systems, airspace management, and aviation safety. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it requires candidates to produce a substantial original contribution to knowledge through a thesis. UNSW Canberra, the delivery location, is uniquely positioned within the Australian Defence Force Academy, offering access to specialised aviation and defence research infrastructure. CRICOS registration (00098G for UNSW) guarantees that this course meets Australian standards for international students.
While specific syllabi are set by the provider, doctoral studies in aviation typically involve advanced research in areas such as air traffic control systems, aviation human factors, aerodynamics, aerospace materials, or aviation policy. Candidates work closely with a supervisory panel to design and execute a research project, culminating in a thesis of up to 100,000 words. Graduates develop high-level skills in critical analysis, independent research, and academic writing, preparing them for careers in academia, research institutions, or senior roles in the aviation industry. The field of Air Traffic Control (031507) emphasises understanding of communication, navigation, surveillance, and air traffic management technologies.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award). Study mode is typically full-time on campus at UNSW Canberra. No foundation studies are included, and there is no VET national code as it is a higher education doctoral degree. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Aviation) are indicative: A$203,500 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$4,000, bringing the total indicative cost to A$207,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (single cover approx. A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (approx. A$21,000–A$25,000 per year according to Home Affairs), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with UNSW via www.unsw.edu.au.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8 or equivalent). UNSW sets specific academic requirements. English language proficiency: a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0) is often expected for doctoral programs, though exact requirements vary by faculty. Some candidates may be required to submit a research proposal and attend an interview. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. For detailed entry requirements, refer to UNSW's official website.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on 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 course is delivered at UNSW Canberra — Canberra, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, home to over 170,000 students and more than 380 CRICOS-registered providers. The city has a high concentration of government and defence institutions, offering unique networking opportunities for aviation researchers. Public transport includes buses and light rail, with campuses well-serviced. Living costs in Canberra are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–A$450, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50 (with student concessions).
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may accompany the primary visa holder. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps for Doctor of Philosophy (Aviation) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Aerospace Engineering), and location (ACT). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit UNSW's website to review specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English proficiency evidence. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once UNSW issues your CoE, apply online for the Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide all required documents including OSHC.
Canberra offers a unique study environment with a strong focus on research, government, and defence. The city has a lower population density than Sydney or Melbourne, offering a quieter lifestyle with access to national institutions like the Australian National University, the National Library, and defence research hubs. The cost of living is slightly above the national average, but still manageable. For aviation PhD students, proximity to the Australian Defence Force Academy and Canberra Airport provides practical research opportunities. Consider your preference for a smaller, more academic-focused city versus larger metropolitan areas.
Explore more Doctoral Degrees in Aerospace Engineering and Technology in Canberra on HeadStart Academy.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Doctor of Philosophy (Aviation) 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.