PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy

at University of Wollongong · Wollongong, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

094536A

CRICOS provider code

00102E

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$132,096 total

Per year

A$33,024/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Philosophy at the University of Wollongong is an advanced research degree that equips candidates with the skills to undertake independent, original research in the field of philosophy. Over the course of four years, students engage in deep exploration of philosophical theories, traditions, and contemporary debates, contributing new knowledge to the discipline. Candidates will work closely with experienced supervisors, developing expertise through seminars, critical dialogue, and collaborative scholarly activities.

This PhD programme is structured around the completion of a substantial thesis, which demonstrates the candidate's ability to critically analyse existing literature, engage with philosophical problems, and present original arguments. Progress is typically monitored through regular supervisory meetings, annual progress reviews, and participation in research seminars. Candidates must complete research training components as part of their development as researchers.

The programme encourages engagement with the broader academic community in Australia, including involvement in conferences, workshops, and professional associations. The University of Wollongong supports research students with resources and links to Australian industry, policy institutes, and cultural organisations where relevant. Strong emphasis is placed on critical thinking, logical analysis, clear written communication, and ethical scholarship—skills highly valued across many sectors.

This course is ideal for individuals with a strong academic background in philosophy or related fields, who are intellectually curious and committed to pursuing a research career. International applicants must evidence English proficiency, and should confirm entry requirements and details on the official university website. As a research degree, this PhD is listed on the CRICOS register and international students may be eligible for up to 48 hours per fortnight of work rights during study, with the possibility to access the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register.

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 positions at Australian and international universities
Research roles in think tanks, policy institutes, and NGOs
Opportunities in government and public sector analysis
Positions in ethics committees or advisory bodies
Professional writing, editing, and publishing
Consultancy roles across education, business, and the arts
Industry, cultural, and heritage organisation roles that value critical analysis and ethical reasoning

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy at University of Wollongong?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$132,096 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic positions at Australian and international universitiesResearch roles in think tanks, policy institutes, and NGOsOpportunities in government and public sector analysisPositions in ethics committees or advisory bodiesProfessional writing, editing, and publishingConsultancy...

Apply View university