Study in Australia
PhD / Doctorate Full Time

Cotutelle PHD program

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

CRICOS course code

051416J

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

26 weeks

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 (UNSW) offers candidates a distinctive opportunity to undertake doctoral research jointly supervised by UNSW and an international partner institution. This unique pathway enables students to split their research activities between Australia and a collaborating country, benefitting from the expertise, networks, and resources of both universities. The program culminates in the award of a doctoral degree by both institutions, enhancing graduates' international academic and professional profiles.

Structured according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Level 10, the Cotutelle PhD consists of a significant original research project, typically completed over a minimum of three years full-time. However, individual research plans and durations may be influenced by the requirements of both the Australian and partner university. Students are required to enrol in units of study that support their research development, and credit points are allocated according to UNSW’s doctoral policies. The program often includes milestone reviews, comprehensive progress reports, and the submission of a substantial thesis, which is examined by academics from both institutions.

A Cotutelle PhD develops advanced research skills, cross-cultural communication, and expertise in a chosen field, with added value from exposure to different academic and research environments. This program will particularly suit highly motivated students seeking to build an international academic profile, contribute to global knowledge, or develop skills for leadership roles in research, government, or industry. Prospective students should confirm entry requirements, research opportunities, and English proficiency details on the official UNSW website.

UNSW is located in Sydney and has extensive industry and research collaborations, offering access to Australian and global networks. International students on a Student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after completion, subject to Australia's regulations and any changes reflected on official government sources.

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 positions at universities
  • Research roles in government departments and agencies
  • Research and development positions in industry, including technology and science organisations
  • Policy analysis and advisory roles in public and private sectors
  • Project management positions in research-intensive fields
  • Consultancy for multinational and international research projects
  • Specialist roles in international education and cross-institutional partnerships

Frequently asked questions

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

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher and lecturer positions at universitiesResearch roles in government departments and agenciesResearch and development positions in industry, including technology and science organisationsPolicy analysis and advisory roles in public and private sectorsProject man...

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Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →
Study Guides Why Study in Australia? Rankings, Work Rights and Graduate Outcomes Seven Australian universities sit in the QS world top 100, degrees are taught entirely in English, and eligible graduates can stay and work on a Temporary Graduate visa — here is what studying in Australia actually involves. Application Guides How to Apply to an Australian University: ATAR, UAC and Direct Applications Domestic school leavers apply through a state admissions centre; international applicants apply directly to the university. This is the whole path, from entry requirements to Letter of Offer and Confirmation of Enrolment. Rankings & Comparisons Group of Eight or Technology University? Choosing the Right Australian Institution The Go8 research universities, the technology network, the regional universities and the private providers each suit a different student. How to tell which one suits you.

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