PhD / Doctorate Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Cotutelle PHD program

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

051359B

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

Not published

Per year

—

Intake

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

About this program

The Cotutelle PhD program at the University of New South Wales offers an exceptional research training experience in the broad domain of Social Sciences & Psychology. This unique doctoral pathway is structured as a collaborative program, allowing candidates to undertake their research jointly between UNSW Sydney and an international partner institution. Students benefit from supervision by leading experts in their field at both universities and engage in a project that fosters cross-cultural understanding and international research networks.

The program typically spans 1.5 years full-time and is highly research-intensive. Candidates will focus on an original thesis project, contributing substantive new knowledge to the social sciences or psychology. In addition to their primary research, students may participate in seminars, research skills workshops, and peer collaboration supported by both institutions. Work-integrated learning, such as fieldwork, professional placement, or community engagement, can form part of the research experience—particularly valuable in the Australian context where stakeholder partnership is highly valued in social science research.

Australian doctoral qualifications require candidates to develop advanced research skills, critical analysis, scholarly writing, and project management expertise. The Cotutelle model further enhances intercultural competence, global perspectives and the ability to collaborate across borders. Participants graduate with a jointly-awarded degree, recognised in Australia and abroad; this empowers them for internationally-oriented careers in research, policy or academia.

This program is suited to ambitious researchers seeking to deepen their expertise while building global networks. Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic background and a clear research proposal. International students must meet English language proficiency requirements, such as IELTS Academic 6.5 or higher. While studying, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight and may be eligible for post-study opportunities under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). For specific details and entry requirements, prospective students should confirm information on the official UNSW or CRICOS program 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 universities and research institutes
Policy analyst or advisor for government and non-governmental organisations
Consultant in social research, evaluation, or community development
Project manager or leader in public services, health, or social enterprises
International development specialist or cross-cultural programme coordinator
Research and innovation roles in Australian and global social science industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Cotutelle PHD program at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in universities and research institutesPolicy analyst or advisor for government and non-governmental organisationsConsultant in social research, evaluation, or community developmentProject manager or leader in public services, health, or social ent...

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