PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering and Related Technologies)

at James Cook University · Townsville, Queensland

CRICOS course code

081388D

CRICOS provider code

00117J

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$195,809 total

Per year

A$48,952/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering and Related Technologies) at James Cook University in Townsville enables candidates to conduct independent, original and significant research across a wide range of engineering and technology disciplines. The programme is designed to develop advanced research competencies through in-depth exploration of a specialised area, culminating in a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge or insights to the field. Candidates work under the guidance of experienced supervisors and are supported by the university’s research environment and industry connections.

Structured as a four-year doctorate, this PhD comprises a series of research milestones, literature reviews, data collection and thesis preparation rather than traditional coursework units. Candidates engage in research seminars, professional development workshops, and may participate in collaborative projects with Australian industry partners to enhance practical relevance. Interaction with peers and industry professionals is encouraged, fostering a holistic academic experience.

Throughout the programme, candidates develop critical skills in project management, scholarly communication, advanced data analysis, and the formulation of innovative solutions to real-world engineering challenges. The degree is suited to engineers, technologists and science graduates who are passionate about research and wish to advance their expertise, influence industry practice or pursue academic careers. International students must evidence English proficiency and can confirm specific details via the official university resources.

Australian PhD graduates are well positioned for post-study workplace opportunities, with access to post-study work rights through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) and part-time work rights (48 hours per fortnight) during enrolment. The doctoral programme benefits from James Cook University’s links to local industries, research institutes and broader Australian engineering networks.

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

Research and development engineer in sectors such as mining, energy, infrastructure and technology
Academic and teaching positions at Australian universities and research organisations
Project manager or technical specialist in engineering consultancies and government agencies
Innovation lead in advanced manufacturing, environmental technology or digital systems
Role in policy development or technical advisory within regulatory bodies
Researcher in Australian public and private sector laboratories

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering and Related Technologies) at James Cook 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$195,809 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research and development engineer in sectors such as mining, energy, infrastructure and technologyAcademic and teaching positions at Australian universities and research organisationsProject manager or technical specialist in engineering consultancies and government agenciesInnov...

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