PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Midwifery)

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

056225J

CRICOS provider code

00109J

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$166,212 total

Per year

A$41,553/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Midwifery) at the University of Newcastle offers an advanced research degree designed for experienced midwives and related health professionals seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field. As a public university in the vibrant context of Newcastle, this doctoral programme fosters the critical investigation of topics that advance midwifery practice, maternity care policy, health education, and broader health outcomes for women and newborns. Candidates undertake independent research under the supervision of experienced academics, culminating in a thesis that represents a substantial contribution to scholarship or professional practice.

Structured over four years full-time, this doctorate aligns with Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 10 standards. The programme leads candidates through an in-depth research journey, typically including the development and defence of a research proposal, ethics approvals, systematic data collection and analysis, and thesis preparation and submission. Candidates enrol in research units of study that collectively accrue the required credit points for doctoral progression. The degree generally does not follow a semester-based coursework format, but may incorporate research training components and milestone reviews to progress candidature.

Graduates develop highly sought-after skills in critical thinking, advanced research methodologies, data analysis, academic writing, and project management. The programme encourages engagement with the Australian healthcare sector, providing scope for integration with clinical services, policy agencies, and research institutes. Those seeking to influence midwifery practice or contribute to policy development, education, or leadership will find this degree especially suitable. The University's connections within Australia's healthcare and academic sectors support collaboration and industry-relevant research opportunities. International applicants must demonstrate high-level English proficiency and should confirm specific admission details on the official 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

Senior Researcher in Australian health and midwifery organisations
Academic positions at universities or teaching hospitals
Midwifery or maternity care policy advisor
Consultant roles in women's health services
Leaders in non-governmental or health advocacy groups

PhD graduates can access Australia's Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work rights, and are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Midwifery) at University of Newcastle?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$166,212 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Senior Researcher in Australian health and midwifery organisationsAcademic positions at universities or teaching hospitalsMidwifery or maternity care policy advisorConsultant roles in women's health servicesLeaders in non-governmental or health advocacy groupsPhD graduates can ac...

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