PhD in Physiology & Pharmacology – UNSW Sydney

PhD / Doctorate Pharmacy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Physiology & Pharmacology)

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

CRICOS course code

001057G

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$257,500 total

Per year

A$64,375/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physiology & Pharmacology at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is a research-intensive doctoral programme designed for those who wish to advance scientific knowledge in the fundamental and applied aspects of physiology and pharmacology. Across a typical duration of four years, candidates undertake independent, original research under the guidance of experienced supervisors in world-class laboratories.

This Australian PhD is structured around the completion of a substantial research thesis that contributes new insights to the field. Students may complete approved coursework to complement their research training, but the primary focus is a significant, single research project. Throughout the programme, candidates enrol in research units of study, earning credit points towards their degree. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, scientific communication, advanced laboratory skills, experimental design, and data analysis.

The programme is well suited to graduates in biomedical science, pharmacy, pharmacology, medicine, or related disciplines who are passionate about driving discoveries that underpin health and therapeutic advances. With UNSW's deep connections to Sydney's thriving biomedical industry, hospital precincts, and research institutes, students benefit from opportunities for collaborative work and engagement with professional settings, enhancing career readiness. International students are required to meet English language proficiency requirements and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream to gain experience in the Australian workforce.

UNSW’s PhD programme in Physiology & Pharmacology provides rigorous training for those seeking career pathways in academia, industry, and government. Applicants should refer to the official UNSW and CRICOS sources to confirm the most current admission requirements and programme details.

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
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry scientist
Clinical trials coordinator or manager
Medical research and development specialist
Regulatory affairs officer or science policy advisor
Positions in government health agencies or medical research councils

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Physiology & Pharmacology) 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$257,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in universities and research institutesPharmaceutical and biotechnology industry scientistClinical trials coordinator or managerMedical research and development specialistRegulatory affairs officer or science policy advisorPositions in government h...

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