PhD / Doctorate Biomedical Engineering Full Time

PhD (Biomedical Engineering)

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

110528H

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$184,320 total

Per year

A$46,080/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The PhD (Biomedical Engineering) at RMIT University in Melbourne is a research-focused doctorate built around independent inquiry under academic supervision. Candidates investigate complex problems at the interface of engineering, medicine, and biological sciences. Study typically involves original research resulting in a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge to the discipline. The course sits at Level 10 of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and takes approximately four years full time.

Doctoral candidates usually complete advanced research training through coursework or workshops in the early stages. This may cover topics such as research methods, ethics, and communication for scientists and engineers. The central part of the degree is the research project—planned and executed with support from an academic supervisor and often carried out in close association with research centres, hospitals, or industry partners. Melbourne is known for its active biomedical sector, and RMIT maintains links with local healthcare and biotechnology organisations.

The PhD suits those with a background in biomedical engineering or related fields who are aiming to become independent researchers, academic staff, or specialists in industry. You will learn to plan and run experiments, analyse data, and communicate complex ideas clearly to technical and non-technical audiences. Along the way, candidates develop skills in project management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific writing.

If you are an international student, you’ll need to meet English language requirements (such as an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall) and you may be eligible for work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Always confirm details on the official university 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

  • Research scientist in biomedical engineering or allied fields
  • Academic positions in universities and research institutes
  • Specialist roles in medical device companies and biotechnology firms
  • Project leaders within hospitals, government, or non-profit health organisations
  • Consultant for regulatory, healthcare, or technology agencies in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the PhD (Biomedical Engineering) 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$184,320 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist in biomedical engineering or allied fieldsAcademic positions in universities and research institutesSpecialist roles in medical device companies and biotechnology firmsProject leaders within hospitals, government, or non-profit health organisationsConsultant fo...

Guides for this subject and the application

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