PhD in Mechanical Engineering at UNSW (Sydney)

PhD / Doctorate Mechanical Engineering Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical Engineering)

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

085789K

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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$193,000 total

Per year

A$48,250/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical Engineering) at the University of New South Wales is designed for those seeking to make significant original contributions to the field of mechanical engineering. Based in Sydney, this four-year doctoral programme focuses on independent, supervised research culminating in a substantial thesis that advances knowledge in areas such as advanced materials, robotics, manufacturing, thermofluids, and energy systems.

Australian PhD programmes are structured around supervised research rather than set coursework. At UNSW, doctoral candidates engage closely with academic supervisors and may participate in research seminars, skill-building workshops, and professional development activities. While the core requirement is a research thesis, candidates often contribute to published research, attend national conferences, and collaborate with industry leaders, benefitting from UNSW’s strong links with Australian manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors.

Study in this programme equips graduates with advanced analytical, technical, and project management skills. Doctoral candidates become adept at problem identification, experimental design, data analysis, and scholarly communication. This rigorous training suits individuals passionate about driving innovation and seeking careers in research, academia, or technical leadership within industry.

The programme is suited to those with a high level of motivation, strong academic record in engineering, and a desire to solve complex problems. International students need to demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or accepted equivalents). Students have opportunities to connect with local industry through UNSW’s research partnerships and benefit from the professional development and work-rights settings in Australia, including work rights of 48 hours per fortnight and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Applicants should always confirm current details via the official UNSW website.

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 the automotive, aerospace, energy, or manufacturing industries
Academic or postdoctoral researcher at universities and research organisations
Mechanical engineering consultant for private or public sector projects across Australia
Technical leader or manager in engineering-driven technology companies
Specialist roles in government agencies focused on innovation and infrastructure

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical Engineering) at University of New South Wales?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$193,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research and development engineer in the automotive, aerospace, energy, or manufacturing industriesAcademic or postdoctoral researcher at universities and research organisationsMechanical engineering consultant for private or public sector projects across AustraliaTechnical leade...

Apply View university