PhD in Accounting at UNSW Sydney
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PhD / Doctorate Accounting Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy - Accounting

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

CRICOS course code

001012K

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

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$180,000 total

Per year

A$45,000/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting at the University of New South Wales is a rigorous research-based degree that cultivates advanced expertise in accounting theory, methodology, and practice. Based in Sydney, this doctoral programme is designed for candidates who aspire to pursue academic, research, or senior professional roles, focusing on the critical analysis of accounting issues in contemporary business and policy environments.

This Australian PhD is structured across four years of full-time study and is anchored by independent, original research that culminates in a substantial thesis. Candidates work under the supervision of experienced academic staff and are expected to contribute original knowledge to the field. Students complete research training which may include coursework in advanced research methods and discipline-specific topics, followed by the formulation and execution of a major research project. Throughout their candidature, students engage with the vibrant academic community at UNSW and have the opportunity to participate in research seminars, present papers, and collaborate with leading researchers.

Key skills developed include critical thinking, sophisticated data analysis, research design, and scholarly communication. Candidates also learn to evaluate and apply complex accounting frameworks, contribute to evidence-based policy or organisational practice, and disseminate research findings to both academic and professional audiences.

This PhD is suited to individuals with a strong foundation in accounting or a related discipline, keen analytical skills, and a passion for research-driven inquiry. The programme is ideal for those interested in shaping the future of practice and scholarship in accounting, both in Australia and internationally. Prospective candidates should check UNSW's official site for current details and specific entry criteria.

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 roles in Australian and international universities
  • Researcher in government agencies or private sector organisations
  • Senior analyst or advisor in accounting or consulting firms
  • Policy development roles in regulatory bodies
  • Executive or specialist positions within Australian corporate, financial, or public-sector industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy - Accounting at University of New South Wales?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$180,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic roles in Australian and international universitiesResearcher in government agencies or private sector organisationsSenior analyst or advisor in accounting or consulting firmsPolicy development roles in regulatory bodiesExecutive or specialist positions within Australian...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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