PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy 254LC

at University of Canberra · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

077742C

CRICOS provider code

00212K

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$97,300 total

Per year

A$24,325/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 254LC at the University of Canberra is a research-focused degree centred on independent, original inquiry in philosophy. As a candidate, you will work closely with an academic supervisor to develop and execute a substantial research project on a topic of your choice within philosophical inquiry. This culminates in the submission of a thesis that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in the field.

PhD study at Australian universities like Canberra generally involves three or more years of full-time research, though this doctorate is structured as a four-year full-time course (or equivalent part-time). The degree does not follow a typical semester-based timetable as undergraduate qualifications do. At the University of Canberra, you’ll usually begin with a literature review and research proposal, then progress through data collection, philosophical analysis, and thesis writing. Candidates may have the opportunity to undertake research methodology training and participate in seminars, conferences, and academic activities.

During your research, you will develop advanced skills in critical analysis, academic writing, argumentation, and independent problem-solving. The programme suits those aiming for academic, research, or analytical careers—especially people passionate about intensive research, theoretical thinking, and contributing new ideas to the field. International students must evidence English proficiency (with details specified on the university’s site), and all candidates should consult the University of Canberra's official page for specific eligibility, application, and scholarship details.

Located in Canberra, the University of Canberra is part of a research community with access to libraries, scholarly networks, and collaboration opportunities with Australian philosophical societies and institutions. International doctoral students can work 48 hours per fortnight during their studies and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after completing their degree.

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 university lecturer in philosophy
Policy analyst for Australian government agencies
Research officer or ethics committee advisor
Publishing and editorial roles in academic and specialist presses
Roles in non-governmental and cultural organisations with a research or analytical focus

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy 254LC at University of Canberra?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$97,300 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or university lecturer in philosophyPolicy analyst for Australian government agenciesResearch officer or ethics committee advisorPublishing and editorial roles in academic and specialist pressesRoles in non-governmental and cultural organisations with a resear...

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