PhD (Science) | Federation University Australia

PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Science)

at Federation University Australia · Ballarat, Victoria

CRICOS course code

044127K

CRICOS provider code

00103D

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

3.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$108,000 total

Per year

A$30,857/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Science) at Federation University Australia is a rigorous research degree based in Ballarat that offers candidates the opportunity to pursue independent, original research in science under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. As a PhD candidate, you will undertake a significant research project which culminates in the submission of a thesis. The programme is structured over 3.5 years of full-time study, in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standards for doctoral degrees.

Throughout your candidature, you will develop advanced expertise in your area of specialisation, critical analysis and high-level problem-solving skills, as well as mastery in the methodologies relevant to your field of scientific research. The course includes research development seminars, opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, and structured progress reviews to support your journey to thesis submission.

While this PhD is research-focused and does not typically include taught coursework, candidates may be required to complete specific units of study to enhance their methodological or technical skills. Credit points are awarded for research milestones, and you may have opportunities for work-integrated learning or industry-connected research, depending on your thesis topic and the partnerships of the university. The programme supports candidates in building skills relevant to both academic and industry research environments, and is suited to individuals passionate about advancing scientific knowledge, whether for a research-focused career or progression to leadership roles in science-related fields.

Applicants must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency (an IELTS Academic score of 6.0–6.5 overall is generally required, or equivalent scores in other accepted tests; confirm on the official website). Doctoral candidates may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion, subject to current Australian government regulations.

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

Research scientist in universities or research institutes
Industry research and development roles in science and technology companies
Policy advisor or analyst in government science agencies
Academic teaching and research positions
Scientific consultant in private or public sector
Roles in environmental agencies, healthcare, biotechnology, and analytical laboratories within the Australian science sector

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) at Federation University Australia?

It typically takes 3.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$108,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist in universities or research institutesIndustry research and development roles in science and technology companiesPolicy advisor or analyst in government science agenciesAcademic teaching and research positionsScientific consultant in private or public sectorRol...

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