PhD in Philosophy – ANU, Canberra | Research Focused
AN Australian National University logo
PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Social Sciences

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

036805K

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$194,710 total

Per year

A$48,678/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the Research School of Social Sciences, Australian National University, is a rigorous research-focused degree designed for candidates who wish to make a substantial original contribution to philosophy. Based in Canberra, the programme provides a supportive academic environment where students engage deeply with philosophical questions under the guidance of accomplished supervisors. Students work closely with nationally and internationally recognised scholars, developing advanced research skills and scholarly independence.

Structured over four years, the PhD programme progresses through confirmed candidature and supervised research, culminating in the submission of a thesis that demonstrates critical insight and original thought. While coursework components may be included as necessary for research development, the primary emphasis is on independent research rather than set units of study. Students are expected to engage with research seminars, present their work, and participate actively in the intellectual life of the school. The programme aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standards at Level 10, ensuring that the research, methodology training, and thesis meet rigorous academic expectations.

PhD candidates gain expertise in research design, argumentation, critical analysis, and advanced academic writing, skills highly regarded both within and outside the academy. The Research School fosters links with Australian philosophical societies, policy organisations, and cultural institutions, promoting interdisciplinary engagement and broadening the impact of student research. The course best suits those with strong academic backgrounds in philosophy or related humanities disciplines who are committed to pursuing advanced scholarship, academic careers, or leadership roles where deep analytical and ethical reasoning is valued.

International students must evidence English proficiency, commonly via IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or other accepted tests, as outlined on the university’s website. Students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon completion, depending on their individual circumstances. For unit credit requirements and further details, consult the official programme page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.
International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

  • Academic positions at universities and research institutes
  • Policy analysis roles in government departments
  • Research consulting for public and private sector organisations
  • Publishing and editorial roles in scholarly and cultural organisations
  • Leadership in non-governmental and not-for-profit organisations
  • Strategic advice and ethical analysis roles in Australian industry

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Social Sciences at Australian National University?

It typically takes 4 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$194,710 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic positions at universities and research institutesPolicy analysis roles in government departmentsResearch consulting for public and private sector organisationsPublishing and editorial roles in scholarly and cultural organisationsLeadership in non-governmental and not-for...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

Related programs

PhD / Doctorate Philosophy
MA Macquarie University logo

Doctor of Philosophy (Arts)

Macquarie University

CRICOS 001403F · Provider 00002J

⏱ 3 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 A$131,800 total
Master's Degree Philosophy
MA Macquarie University logo

Master of Philosophy (Arts)

Macquarie University

CRICOS 056667E · Provider 00002J

⏱ 2 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 A$86,100 total