PhD in Mining Engineering at UNSW Sydney

PhD / Doctorate Geology Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy - Mining Engineering

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

CRICOS course code

001021J

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$253,000 total

Per year

A$63,250/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Mining Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is a research-focused doctorate designed for those wishing to advance knowledge and innovation in the field of mining engineering and geology. Over the course of approximately four years, doctoral candidates undertake an original research project under the supervision of leading academics and industry experts, culminating in a thesis that must make a significant contribution to the discipline.

Australian PhD programmes are structured to provide extensive research training, complemented by coursework as required, including research methodology or specialist subjects directly related to mining engineering. Candidates typically enrol in specified units of study, accumulating credit points as they progress. Throughout the programme, students engage in seminars, research workshops, and scholarly activities designed to develop skills in academic writing, data analysis, project management, and critical evaluation of mining processes and systems.

This doctoral programme is ideally suited for those with strong undergraduate or postgraduate backgrounds in engineering, earth sciences, or related fields. Graduates develop skills in advanced problem-solving, innovative mining technologies, sustainability practices, and the application of mining engineering principles to real-world challenges. Many projects are linked to Australian mining companies and research organisations, offering collaborative opportunities and exposure to industry best practices.

Located in Sydney, UNSW benefits from its proximity to Australia’s leading mining sector and professional networks. Australian PhD candidates can also access work-integrated learning through industry partnerships and research placements, enhancing their professional readiness. PhD graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, and international students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled. For detailed admission, English language, and credit information, confirm on the official UNSW and CRICOS pages.

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 mining engineering
Mining project manager or consultant
Roles in mining companies focused on research, development, and automation
Government and regulatory agency advisor
Research scientist in geotechnical engineering or resource extraction
Positions in Australian mining organisations, consultancies, and research institutes

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy - Mining Engineering 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$253,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or university lecturer in mining engineeringMining project manager or consultantRoles in mining companies focused on research, development, and automationGovernment and regulatory agency advisorResearch scientist in geotechnical engineering or resource extract...

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