PhD in Computer Science at RMIT University, Melbourne

PhD / Doctorate Computer Science Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science)

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

079721C

CRICOS provider code

00122A

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$168,960 total

Per year

A$42,240/yr

Intake

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

About this program

RMIT University's Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science involves independent, original research guided by experienced supervisors in Melbourne. As a doctoral candidate, you will define your own research question relating to computer science, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, or data science, and develop new knowledge through a substantial thesis. The programme focuses on research skills, critical analysis, and practical problem-solving relevant to industry and academia.

Structured over four years of full-time study, a PhD at RMIT is built around completion of units of study at the research level; progression reviews ensure candidates meet research milestones on time. In addition to your thesis, you may participate in research training, seminars, and sometimes teach undergraduate classes. While there isn’t formal coursework, candidates often attend workshops on research methods, academic writing, and ethics.

Many students connect with industry partners or research centres during their PhD, which is valuable for those interested in the Australian tech sector. Professional development includes presenting at conferences and publishing peer-reviewed papers. RMIT encourages work-integrated research, and your thesis may include partnership projects. This degree suits high-achieving students wanting to specialise in a specific area of computer science and contribute new ideas to the field, whether aiming for university research, leadership roles in tech companies, or work in government or consultancies.

Doctoral students in Australia are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and graduates may be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Entry is competitive and requires evidence of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic or equivalent) as well as a suitable research proposal. Applicants should confirm RMIT’s requirements and opportunities on the official website.

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 and lecturer in Australian universities
Senior data scientist, AI specialist, or software architect in the technology sector
Cybersecurity consultant for government or private organisations
Research and development manager in IT companies
Technical leader in digital health, finance, education, or logistics industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science) at RMIT 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$168,960 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher and lecturer in Australian universitiesSenior data scientist, AI specialist, or software architect in the technology sectorCybersecurity consultant for government or private organisationsResearch and development manager in IT companiesTechnical leader in digit...

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