Guide to Study PhD in Australia

PhD in Australia is a full-time 3 years research degree also referred to as Doctorate and is the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. The Ph.D. duration in Australia depends on registration and funding arrangements and can take longer than 3 years in some cases.

A PhD admission in Australia can be taken in all faculties or across disciplines in top universities and comprises independent research and writing on an approved topic toward a thesis for examination. Integrated Ph.D. in Australia is a 4-year postgraduate level program that combines a one-year master’s course with a three-year PhD course where students work on their chosen topic, research methods, and academic writing techniques before embarking on their independent research project.

Online Ph.D. courses in Australia are also available for international students where a distance-learning program is undertaken by the student from their home country. The PhD in Australia cost comes up to around 30,000 AUD-42,000 AUD for international students which is equivalent to INR 16 to 23 lakhs per annum for Indian students. There are several Ph.D. scholarships in Australia for international students such as studentships, scholarships, grants by the Australian government, and more. The annual salary for PhD graduates in Australia in the field of research and academics is around 80,000 AUD.

Top Universities for Ph.D. in Australia

Australia is home to some of the top-ranking universities of the world offering Ph.D. programs to students from all over the world. PhD degrees in Australia are offered in various disciplines such as computer science, engineering, public health, business, psychology, and more. The list of universities in Australia for PhD are as follows:

1. Australian National University
2. University of Sydney
3. University of Melbourne
4. University of New South Wales
5. University of Queensland
6. Monash University
7. University of Western Australia
8. University of Adelaide
9. University of Technology Sydney
10. University of Wollongong

Australian National University

Australian National University is the only institute set up by the Federal Government of Australia and is focused on establishing a world-class research methodology that is integral for the development of the nation. It is ranked #31 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $45,052 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few PhD programs offered at the Australian National University along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Mathematical Sciences: $32,341
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Engineering - Computer Science: $32,341
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Clinical Psychology: $32,341
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Diplomacy: $32,000
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Medical Research: $32,341

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University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is one of the top 50 universities in the world globally renowned for offering the broadest range of disciplines and a hub for widely respected and recognized qualifications. It is ranked #40 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $49,000 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few PhD programs offered at the University of Sydney along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Architecture: $27,600
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine [D.V.M]: $44,160
• Doctor of Medicine [M.D]: $53,820
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Dentistry: $32,085
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Engineering and IT: $32,085

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University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne is the second oldest university in Australia known for its degree programs in the fields of accounting, finance, architecture, medicine, and more. It is ranked #41 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $44,128 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few PhD programs offered at the University of Melbourne along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Arts: $25,807
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Law: $28,723
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Veterinary Medicine: $49,178
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Science: $30,007
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Medical Science: $38,406

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University of New South Wales

The University of New South Wales is a leading research extensive institute in Australia with its primary focus on scientific, professional, and technological discipline. It is ranked #44 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $45,600 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of New South Wales along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Public Policy and Governance: $24,798
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Art, Design, and Media: $26,723
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Pathology: $35,631
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Biotechnology: $33,009
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Banking and Finance: $14,445

Read More: University of New South Wales

University of Queensland

The University of Queensland is one of the finest teaching and research institutions in Australia and is part of both Go8 and Universitas 21. It is ranked #46 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $40,736 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of Queensland along with their fee details for international students:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Architecture, Planning, and Design: $9,170
• Doctor of Philosophy in MicroMasters and UQx: $9,170
• Doctor of Philosophy in Health and Behavioural Sciences: $9,170
• Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering and Computing: $11,470
• Doctor of Philosophy in Business and Economics: $9,170

Read More: University of Queensland

Monash University

Monash University is a public research university in Melbourne, Australia that is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world. It is ranked #55 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $34,100 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at Monash University along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Business and Economics: $22,149
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Art, Design, and Architecture: $23,529
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences: $32,085
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Engineering: $31,740
• Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Information Technology: $29,532

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University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia is a public university known for its courses in the fields of geosciences, engineering, and fine arts. It is ranked #92 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $34,900 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of Western Australia along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Medicine [M.D]: $53,889
• Doctorate of Dental Medicine: $53,889
• Doctorate of Education: $23,598
• Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine: $37,536
• Doctorate of Social Work: $22,839

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University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is a public university based in Adelaide, South Australia, and is known for its courses, research work, and progressive-learning approach. It is ranked #106 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $45,000 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of Adelaide along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: $50,050
• Doctor of Clinical Dentistry: $46,200

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University of Technology Sydney

The University of Technology Sydney is a public university that follows the model of global-oriented learning. It is ranked #133 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $34,080 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of Technology Sydney along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Education [Ed.D]: $19,513
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Nursing, Midwifery, Health: $24,757
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Science: $27,800
• Doctorate of Creative Arts: $19,485
• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in International Studies: $20,268

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University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong is one of the renowned universities in Australia with a reputation for some splendid research track along with a rating of a 5-star global university. It is ranked #196 in the QS 2021 Global Rank and charges approximately $56,544 per annum for various doctoral degree programs. Listed below are a few Ph.D. programs offered at the University of Wollongong along with their fee details:

• Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Information Science: $28,030
• Doctor of Philosophy in Arts: $14,256
• Doctor of Philosophy in Business: $15,456
• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology: $17,304
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education: $13,872

Read More: University of Wollongong

Popular PhD Courses in Australia

International students can pursue a wide range of PhD programs in Australia. These programs are offered in subject areas like arts, sciences, architecture, engineering, law, among others. The table given below shows some of the top PhD courses available in Australia, along with their average fees information:

Course	Average Course Fees
Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Arts	$25,807
Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Science	$30,007
Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.] in Law	$28,723
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Biotechnology	$33,009
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Banking and Finance	$14,445
Doctor of Philosophy in Business and Economics	$9,170
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Engineering	$31,740
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Information Technology	29,532
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Art, Design, and Architecture	$23,529
Doctor of Philosophy [PhD] in Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences	$32,085

Why Pursue a Ph.D. in Australia?

Australia is one of the very few countries with a world-recognized university reputation and highly advanced laboratories that facilitate the successful completion of doctoral degrees. It has one of the highest Ph.D. completion rates and also offers several scholarship options for international students. Some other benefits of doing a Ph.D. in Australia are listed below:

• According to the QS World University Rankings 2021, 5 universities in Australia rank in the top 50 list, and 7 universities are included in the top 100 list
• The total number of PhD completions in Australia increased from 4,000 in the year 2000 to around 10,000 in 2019 as per CSIRO
• A lot of Ph.D. graduates in Australia find work in businesses, government, and the non-profit sector
• Australian Innovative Research Universities (IRU) focus on pioneering research work, teaching, and research activities
• International students can enroll in unique Ph.D. programs in Australia in various fields such as  banking, finance and insurance, and more
• PhD in Australia are assessed without the traditional Ph.D. viva-voce which is another plus point for students interested in doctoral research
• PhD graduates in Australia have an option to live and work in the country for at least four years

How to Apply for Ph.D. in Australia?

The very first step to applying for a Ph.D. in Australia is to contact a prospective supervisor who is an academic with research interests related to the topic of research or the lead researcher for a project or respective research group. The applicant should provide a clear and concise description of their project and interests and gain acceptance from the potential supervisor. The students can then proceed towards the formal application process of the respective university. The detailed application process for a Ph.D. in Australia is explained below:

• The students should firstly check and meet the minimum eligibility requirements for the particular university
• He/ she should check all the courses and programs and also meet the minimum score requirements for the different examinations required to enroll in a PhD in Australia
• The applicant should then draft a research proposal that outlines the intended research and provide an overall explanation of the research topic
• The candidate should find a supervisor and get their consent to lead the research project
• He/ she should meet the general pre-application requirements of the particular university that he/ she wishes to enroll in. The requirements vary for different Australian universities
• The applicant should complete the research proposal and submit it to the supervisor as part of the pre-application process
• The student is required to check the application deadline for the respective university and nominate three referees to support their application
• Once the application process is complete, the students need to wait for approximately 6-8 weeks for the assessment. Students who have applied for a scholarship need to wait a little longer
• The result of the application and any other communication is sent to the applicant’s email address

Eligibility for a Ph.D. in Australia

International students applying for a Ph.D. in Australia are required to have completed a 3-4 year minimum graduation degree, along with a 2 years master program. English language proficiency is one of the most important requirements to do a PhD in Australia. There is no particular age limit for PhD in Australia as one can start their doctoral studies at any point in their academic year. Find below the eligibility requirements for a PhD in Australia for international students:

• 4- year undergraduate degree in a relevant field of study including a substantial research component
• An average score of at least 75% in the final year subjects or equivalent
• English language proficiency test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic
• Students should also demonstrate equivalent qualification and professional experience
• Endorsement from a supervisor
• Referee reports
• Official academic transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Research proposal/ Synopsis

Ph.D. in Australia Cost for International Students

International students willing to pursue PhD in Australia are required to plan their expenses in advance and then apply to the desired university. The cost of pursuing a PhD in Australia depends on the selected university and also the various TA (Teaching Assistantship) or RA (Research Assistantship). International students can also pursue low-cost PhD in Australia offered at nominal tuition fees by several top universities. Students particularly have to bear the living costs in addition to the tuition fees at the respective universities. Find below the PhD in Australia cost for international students:

Tuition Fees for Ph.D. in Australia

An average PhD in Australia costs around AUD 30,000- AUD 42,000 per annum for international students. This also varies for different universities depending on the course type and duration. The average tuition fees for PhD in Australia at some of the popular universities are tabulated below:

University Name	Tuition Fees (in AUD)
Australian National University	$44,100
University of Sydney	$47,980
University of Melbourne	$43,201
University of New South Wales	$44,642
University of Queensland	$39,880
Monash University	$33,389
University of Western Australia	$34,172
University of Adelaide	$44,062
University of Technology Sydney	$33,360
University of Wollongong	$55,358

Living Expenses in Australia for International Students

International students need to have a minimum of 14,600 AUD for living costs per year in Australia. Students with a partner should have an extra $5,100 AUD and those with children require AUD 2,200 per child. The weekly living costs in Australia come up to $60- AUD 317. The monthly living costs for international students in Australia are shown below.

• Accommodation Costs: $1,000
• Dining and Groceries: $80- $280
• Electricity and Gas: $25- $100
• Phone and Internet: $14- $40
• Transportation: $11- $40
• Entertainment: $57- $108

Top Ph.D. Scholarships in Australia

International students can apply for financial aid offered by both the Australian Government and the Australian universities. Students can also work for up to 40 hours per fortnight while pursuing research work. Listed below are some of the PhD scholarships in Australia for international students:

• Graduate Research Scholarship
• Maxwell King Ph.D. Scholarship
• International Research Training Program Scholarship (IRTP)
• University of Adelaide Research Scholarships
• ANU Ph.D. Scholarships

Scope after PhD in Australia

There are several opportunities available for PhD students in Australia, including a diverse range of career options. A PhD can make a significant difference to your career prospects, regardless of whether you wish to work in the academic or industrial sectors.

There will be plenty of job opportunities in Australia for PhD students to work for innovative companies as well as with young, global start-ups. In general, the average salary for a doctorate graduate in Australia is 80,000 AUD. PhD students in Australia are offered the following research and academic opportunities:

Designation	Average Annual Salary (AUD)
Research Scientist	94,000
Research Associate	83,000
Lecturer	87,000
Research Fellow	92,000
R&D Manager	133,000
Research Officer	77,000
Senior Lecturer	125,000
Senior Research Scientist	109,000