PhD in Philosophy | University of Technology Sydney

PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy

at University of Technology Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

008681E

CRICOS provider code

00099F

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$168,040 total

Per year

A$42,010/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Philosophy at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is an advanced research degree designed for individuals keen to make significant, original contributions to philosophical scholarship. Over a typical four-year full-time duration, PhD candidates undertake independent research under expert academic supervision, culminating in a substantial thesis that advances knowledge in a chosen area of philosophy.

The course structure is governed by the standards of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for doctoral degrees, focusing on the development of advanced theoretical, critical, and methodological skills. Typically, the research journey at UTS may include a combination of supervised research units, milestone reviews, and occasional coursework components to support professional development and research capability. While the core emphasis is on thesis work, candidates may also access seminars, research forums, and teaching opportunities, building collegiality and academic networks within Australia’s rich philosophy research community.

PhD candidates gain expertise in critical analysis, argumentation, research methodology, and communication, all essential for high-level participation in philosophical research and discourse. The programme suits graduates with a strong background in philosophy or a related discipline who demonstrate a capacity for independent, original research. UTS provides a vibrant, urban setting in Sydney, offering close professional and academic links across sectors where philosophical skills are highly valued.

Applicants should confirm the specific English language requirements and application procedures via the official UTS and CRICOS course pages. International students are eligible for work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and upon graduation, may seek to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream in Australia.

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 philosophy or related humanities
Policy analyst or adviser in government agencies or think tanks
Ethics consultant in healthcare, technology, or business sectors
Writer or editor for academic and philosophical publications
Senior roles in research, project management, or non-governmental organisations
Positions in corporate social responsibility and professional ethics advisory

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy at University of Technology Sydney?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$168,040 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or university lecturer in philosophy or related humanitiesPolicy analyst or adviser in government agencies or think tanksEthics consultant in healthcare, technology, or business sectorsWriter or editor for academic and philosophical publicationsSenior roles in...

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