PhD / Doctorate Law (JD) Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy

at University of Wollongong · Wollongong, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

087640D

CRICOS provider code

00102E

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$140,928 total

Per year

A$35,232/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law at the University of Wollongong is a rigorous research degree designed for candidates wishing to contribute original scholarship to the field of law. This doctoral programme offers the opportunity to pursue independent research on a subject of the candidate’s choosing, working under the supervision of experienced academics. Over the course of the degree, candidates develop advanced theoretical knowledge, critical analysis, and legal research skills that underpin high-level inquiry into legal issues facing Australia and the international community.

In Australia, the PhD is typically a full-time programme spanning at least three years, with most candidates completing within four. At the University of Wollongong, the PhD in Law comprises advanced research training, regular progress milestones, and the preparation of a thesis that is examined externally. Candidates may engage in research seminars and professional development activities throughout their candidature. Although the focus is on individual research, candidates are encouraged to participate in the broader scholarly community within the Faculty of Law.

This doctorate suits candidates with a strong academic background in law or a closely related discipline who aspire to deepen their expertise or pursue an academic, policy, or research career. Graduates gain skills in critical legal thinking, advanced research methodologies, scholarly writing, and project management. The programme also prepares candidates to engage with contemporary legal problems, ethical considerations, and challenges specific to the Australian legal context.

International students are required to demonstrate a high level of English proficiency, typically IELTS 7.0–7.5 for law. Work rights while studying in Australia allow up to 48 hours per fortnight, and upon graduation, eligible candidates may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) under the post-study work stream. Detailed programme structures and entry requirements should be confirmed on the official university page.

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 and research positions in Australian and international universities
Legal policy adviser or analyst in governmental and non-governmental organisations
Senior legal researcher for law firms or industry bodies
Positions within courts, tribunals, and legal regulatory agencies
Consultancy roles in legal reform, advocacy, or international law projects
Leadership and advisory roles in the Australian public sector and law-related industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy at University of Wollongong?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$140,928 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic and research positions in Australian and international universitiesLegal policy adviser or analyst in governmental and non-governmental organisationsSenior legal researcher for law firms or industry bodiesPositions within courts, tribunals, and legal regulatory agenciesC...

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