PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences

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

CRICOS course code

079009E

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 Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is an advanced research degree designed for candidates who wish to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge in areas such as sociology, anthropology, political science, or related fields. Based in Sydney, this full-time four-year doctoral programme provides candidates with the opportunity to develop deep expertise in social research methodologies, theory, and analysis relevant to the Australian and global social landscape.

The PhD is structured around the completion of a substantial original thesis, conducted under the guidance of academic supervisors with expertise in specific social sciences disciplines. Over the course of the programme, candidates engage in a tailored combination of independent research, advanced seminars, and professional development activities. Enrolment in relevant units of study, totalling appropriate credit points, ensures a strong foundation in qualitative and quantitative research skills, ethical frameworks, and scholarly communication. A key feature is the opportunity to participate in research projects linked to UNSW’s extensive academic and industry networks within Australia’s vibrant academic environment.

Skills developed include critical analysis, academic writing, advanced research design, and the ability to engage with theoretical and practical social questions. Candidates learn to manage complex research projects and disseminate findings to varied audiences, skills highly valued across academia, government, and industry. The programme is ideally suited to those aspiring to academic careers, policy research roles, or specialist positions requiring advanced research expertise.

Prospective international students must meet English language proficiency requirements, with accepted tests including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or recognised pathway programmes. The PhD in Social Sciences at UNSW also provides avenues for connecting with leading Australian research centres and participation in professional development to enhance employability. Work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during session and access to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) enable doctoral graduates to extend their professional experience in Australia after completing their studies. Applicants should check the official UNSW programme page and the CRICOS register for the latest details regarding structure and admission requirements.

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 at Australian universities
Policy analyst in government or non-profit organisations
Social research consultant for industry partners
Community development manager in the public sector
Market or social trends analyst for research institutes
Roles in Australian think tanks and consulting firms

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy - Social Sciences 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 researcher or lecturer at Australian universitiesPolicy analyst in government or non-profit organisationsSocial research consultant for industry partnersCommunity development manager in the public sectorMarket or social trends analyst for research institutesRoles in Aust...

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