PhD / Doctorate Business Administration (MBA) Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Business)

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

079807G

CRICOS provider code

00122A

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$168,960 total

Per year

A$42,240/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at RMIT University is a research-based doctorate that allows you to make an original contribution to knowledge in the field of business. Over four years, you will develop and carry out an independent research project under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. Your research might cover areas such as management, marketing, entrepreneurship, or international business, depending on your interests and the university’s areas of expertise.

This doctorate requires the completion of a substantial thesis based on your independent research. You will build skills in critical analysis, research methods, and academic writing, as well as presenting and defending your findings. You’ll usually take research training units of study, earning credit points as outlined by RMIT’s guidelines for higher degrees by research. These might include coursework on methodology, ethics, and current issues in business scholarship.

Regular milestones help track your progress throughout the degree, ensuring you are well supported. RMIT has strong links with local industry and research institutes in Melbourne and Australia-wide, which means you may have opportunities to collaborate or gain feedback from the business sector. The course is suited to those aiming for roles in academia, research or senior business leadership, including international students who meet the published English proficiency requirements. Students should confirm all details on RMIT’s official course 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 researcher or lecturer in Australian universities or TAFEs
Senior research positions in government, private and public organisations
Business strategy consultant
Corporate executive and policy adviser roles in business and industry sectors
Roles in research and policy units within Australian industry bodies and think tanks

Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study in Australia.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Business) at RMIT 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$168,960 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or lecturer in Australian universities or TAFEsSenior research positions in government, private and public organisationsBusiness strategy consultantCorporate executive and policy adviser roles in business and industry sectorsRoles in research and policy units...

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