PhD / Doctorate Philosophy Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Society and Culture)

at University of Technology Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

102186C

CRICOS provider code

00099F

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$143,500 total

Per year

A$35,875/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Society and Culture) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) offers candidates the opportunity to undertake advanced research into pressing social, cultural, and philosophical questions. This doctoral programme is designed for individuals who wish to make a significant original contribution to knowledge in fields such as philosophy, the humanities, cultural studies, and related disciplines. Candidates work intensively on a substantial research project, under the guidance of experienced supervisors, culminating in the submission of a thesis that is examined by experts in the field.

Structured across four years of full-time study, the PhD typically comprises regular progress reviews, research seminars, and possibly a combination of coursework units, depending on the supervision arrangements. Candidates earn credit by completing specific research milestones and engaging in seminars and scholarly activities, designed to ensure a systematic development of research capabilities. The programme may include opportunities for work-integrated learning where relevant, especially in partnership with Australian community organisations, NGOs, or other research bodies.

PhD candidates develop advanced skills in critical analysis, research design, academic writing, and public communication of ideas. They build expertise in applying theoretical frameworks to complex social and cultural phenomena, as well as proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. This programme particularly suits those with an interest or background in philosophy, social sciences, or cultural studies, and who are seeking a career in academia, research, or roles that demand high-level analytical and critical skills.

UTS’s location in Sydney provides excellent access to libraries, archives, and research centres, and enables candidates to engage with diverse communities and professional networks. The university maintains active industry and research links, facilitating valuable professional connections. Prospective applicants should confirm supervision expertise, eligibility, English requirements, and application procedures on the official UTS website. International PhD students in Australia may have work rights while studying and may be eligible for post-study work opportunities, including the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).

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 university lecturer
Policy analyst or advisor in government or NGOs
Roles in cultural consultancy and public sector research teams
Positions in museums, galleries, and cultural heritage organisations
Specialist roles in publishing, editing, or consulting
Australian industries in education, government, cultural institutions, and research organisations actively seek graduates with this expertise

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Society and Culture) at University of Technology Sydney?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$143,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or university lecturerPolicy analyst or advisor in government or NGOsRoles in cultural consultancy and public sector research teamsPositions in museums, galleries, and cultural heritage organisationsSpecialist roles in publishing, editing, or consultingAustral...

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