PhD in Paediatrics & Child Health - University of Newcastle

PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Paediatrics and Child Health)

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

096517K

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$223,364 total

Per year

A$55,841/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Paediatrics and Child Health) at the University of Newcastle is a rigorous research qualification designed for candidates passionate about advancing knowledge and improving outcomes in child and adolescent health. Spanning typically four years full-time, this PhD programme empowers candidates to develop an independent research project addressing significant questions in paediatrics or child health. Graduates are prepared to contribute to academic, clinical, or policy settings with fresh evidence and innovative solutions that support children, young people, and their families.

The programme follows the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) doctorate-level structure, which involves paired supervision, comprehensive literature review, the development of advanced research skills, and the completion of a thesis that presents a substantial original contribution to the field. A series of milestones, such as proposal, confirmation, progression reviews, and thesis submission, provide guidance and support across the research journey. While coursework is limited, candidates may participate in workshops or training to strengthen skills in research methodology, academic writing, and ethical conduct.

Doctoral researchers enjoy opportunities for collaboration within the University of Newcastle’s research centres and with health professionals in local and regional paediatric services, reflecting the real-world impact and strong industry-research connections in Australian healthcare. The flexible structure and international focus make this PhD suitable for practising clinicians, researchers, or recent graduates seeking advanced expertise in paediatric and child health research. Work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled also allow international students to gain professional experience alongside study.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic background in a relevant discipline and meet evidence-based English language requirements, commonly an IELTS band of 6.0–7.5 depending on discipline and pathway. Programme content, specific research areas, and supervisor availability can be confirmed by visiting the official University of Newcastle information 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 researcher or lecturer in paediatrics and child health
Clinical research leader in hospitals, health networks, or medical research institutes
Public health policy advisor or analyst on child and youth health issues
Health service manager specialising in paediatric or adolescent care
Child health consultant for government, non-governmental organisations, or global agencies

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Paediatrics and Child Health) 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$223,364 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in paediatrics and child healthClinical research leader in hospitals, health networks, or medical research institutesPublic health policy advisor or analyst on child and youth health issuesHealth service manager specialising in paediatric or adoles...

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