PhD / Doctorate Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Education)

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

079811A

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$153,600 total

Per year

A$38,400/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Education) at RMIT University is a research-focused doctorate for those who want to contribute new knowledge in curriculum and instruction. Candidates plan and undertake a sustained research project in an education topic that interests them, under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. This usually leads to a substantial thesis that addresses a significant issue in the field and makes an original contribution.

Australian PhDs like this one typically take around four years to complete full-time, with candidates earning credit through research milestones instead of coursework units and credit points. Progress is marked by formal candidature reviews and the submission of a thesis, which is examined by independent experts. While there is no formal professional placement, many students develop strong links with local schools, education departments or community organisations as part of their research.

This degree is most suited to those with a strong background in education and prior experience with research. Skills developed include advanced research methods, critical thinking, academic writing, and the ability to design and conduct independent investigations. Many candidates also gain experience presenting at conferences and publishing work, broadening their professional networks within Australia and internationally.

Located in Melbourne, RMIT connects candidates with the Australian education sector and offers opportunities to collaborate with practising teachers and policymakers. Prospective applicants should confirm entry requirements and the latest details on the official RMIT and CRICOS webpages.

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 in Australian universities and research institutes
Curriculum leadership roles in school systems and education departments
Policy and advisory roles in government and non-government organisations
Educational consultancy
Research project management in education-related settings

Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies in Australia.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Education) 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$153,600 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic positions in Australian universities and research institutesCurriculum leadership roles in school systems and education departmentsPolicy and advisory roles in government and non-government organisationsEducational consultancyResearch project management in education-rela...

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