Cotutelle PHD program

The Cotutelle PhD program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, offers doctoral candidates a unique opportunity to undertake collaborative research between UNSW and an international partner institution, leading to the award of a PhD jointly recognised by both universities. The program involves a formal agreement where candidates are co-supervised by leading researchers at UNSW and the partner university, and are required to spend periods of candidature at each institution. This structure provides a broad, global perspective to research, fosters international collaboration, and enables candidates to benefit from the expertise and resources of two world-class research environments.

The doctorate is generally completed over four years of full-time study and constitutes a significant body of original research, culminating in a thesis that is submitted and examined according to the requirements of both institutions. While course structure may vary depending on the discipline and the agreement between institutions, candidates typically complete research workshops, seminars, and professional development milestones. Work-integrated learning may be available in partnership with industry or research agencies, enhancing practical skills and providing direct pathways to industry engagement. Doctoral candidates enrol in research units and accrue credit points in accordance with UNSW’s requirements, which are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Students gain advanced skills in independent research, project management, academic writing, problem-solving, and critical analysis. They also develop strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, which are invaluable in academia, government, and industry roles both in Australia and internationally. The Cotutelle PhD is particularly suited to research-driven candidates interested in global networks, who aspire to academic, research, or high-level professional roles and value collaboration across countries and sectors.

Entry to this program requires a demonstrated capacity for advanced research, and international applicants must meet UNSW’s English language proficiency requirements. Interested applicants should always confirm specific requirements for admission, thesis submission, and progression with UNSW's official page and the collaborating overseas institution.

• Academic researcher or university lecturer in Australian and international institutions
• Research scientist in public or private research organisations
• Policy advisor for governmental or multilateral agencies
• Industry research and development specialist
• Consultant in specialist research fields
• Leadership roles in innovation-focused industries in Australia and abroad

Australian PhD graduates may be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. The Cotutelle pathway builds strong networks across academia, industry, and international partners, supporting diverse career options in Australia’s innovation, research, education, and public policy sectors.