PhD (Integrated) Business and Commercial Law | Victoria Univ
VU Victoria University logo
PhD / Doctorate Commercial Law Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)(Business and Commercial Law)

at Victoria University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

088588F

CRICOS provider code

00124K

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$164,762 total

Per year

A$41,191/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated) in Business and Commercial Law at Victoria University is designed for those interested in contributing original research in the legal aspects of business practice. This four-year doctoral degree combines structured coursework in the first year with independent research over the remaining years. Students begin with units that build research methods and discipline knowledge before moving into the development of their individual research thesis.

The course structure at Australian universities like Victoria University includes a mix of advanced seminars, research skills development, and guided project work. The initial units of study provide a strong grounding in legal theory, commercial law, and the latest research methodologies. After successfully completing the coursework, students work closely with experienced supervisors on a substantial thesis that adds new insights to the field of commercial law.

Throughout their doctoral study, candidates refine high-level skills in critical analysis, legal research, academic writing, and project management. There are often opportunities to engage with Melbourne’s legal profession, legal academics, and business organisations through seminars, guest lectures, and networking events. This course suits aspiring legal academics, policy advisers, or professionals wanting to specialise in the legal dimensions of business.

Australian PhD students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods. On completion, international graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. As requirements and course content may change, students should always check the official Victoria University website for the most current information.

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 commercial law
  • Legal consultant specialising in business and commercial matters
  • Policy or regulatory adviser in government or legal bodies
  • Corporate legal adviser in Australian and international companies
  • In-house counsel for business organisations focusing on commercial compliance
  • Roles within professional associations, research institutes, and think tanks

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)(Business and Commercial Law) at Victoria University?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$164,762 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in commercial lawLegal consultant specialising in business and commercial mattersPolicy or regulatory adviser in government or legal bodiesCorporate legal adviser in Australian and international companiesIn-house counsel for business organisations...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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