do you have to pay for a phd in australia

A Guide to Doing Your PhD in Australia

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If you’re an international student who has completed higher education studies, you might now be considering studying a doctorate degree, also known as a PhD. In Australia, this is the highest level of study and, once completed, can unlock doors to better employment, higher wages, and industry recognition.

Here’s a handy guide on how to apply, what to expect, and where to find further information for your exciting next step.

What is the difference between honours, a master ’s and a PhD?

An honours  is an extra year of study in Australia. To qualify you need to have completed your undergraduate degree, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree, to a high standard. This is often considered a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree might consider a graduate certificate, which usually takes one semester of full-time study and can help you specialise in your chosen career path. One step up from a certificate is a graduate diploma. This type of study takes one year of full-time study and can often be continued on from the graduate certificate.

A master’s by coursework is similar to a graduate diploma but takes a little longer and is regarded as a higher qualification. In most cases, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree; however, in certain circumstances, extensive relevant work experience might be accepted instead. This type of course typically takes 18 months to complete. A master’s by research takes two years of full-time study and is based on a research project supervised by a university academic.

A doctorate by research or a PhD is the highest level of study offered in Australia. A PhD requires submission of a thesis that is assessed by examiners who determine whether the research is worthy of the qualification. A PhD student must show through their thesis that they have made a significant contribution to their field. Once graduated, the candidate may use the title of Doctor.

How does a PhD work in Australia?

A PhD in Australia is usually studied over the course of three years. While some students take a little longer, extensions are subject to funding, as well as other important factors. Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa .

According to the Australian Government , fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the full amount if there is funding available, which is common in Australia. Most universities have funding for promising PhD students set aside. Get in touch with your chosen university directly to find out what scholarships are available to international students. The Australian Government also runs Destination Australia , which funds eligible education providers in regional areas to offer scholarships to both domestic and international students. The government also offers the Research Training Program for participating universities.

International students also need to consider the cost of living while abroad to qualify for their visa. You’ll need at least roughly A$21,041 for each year of your study in your bank account in order to be granted a visa.

Do I need honours to apply for a PhD?

In most cases you will need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Division A) – also known as ‘upper second-class’ honours – to apply for your PhD to demonstrate you have significant research experience. However, many education providers offer research-based qualifications to give you this experience if you didn’t complete an honours degree originally.

What is the basic structure of a PhD?

PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of your studies will be on working towards your doctoral thesis.

In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing and analysing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis.

In Australia, you are not required to undergo a viva voca , which is an assessed oral exam in defence of your research topic, method and predicted results. Instead, you are assessed solely on your thesis.

How do I apply for a PhD?

To apply for an Australian PhD, the first step is to contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose. The person you choose should be the lead researcher for the institution you wish to apply to, in the relevant field you wish to study.

Once you have what is known as an ‘expression of interest’ from a provisional supervisor, you can begin your formal application to the university. Most universities won’t consider an application without an expression of interest from a supervisor, so make sure you have this first.

What else do I need to know?

To study as an international student in Australia, you must have a student visa (subclass 500) from the Australian government. Unless you are exempt, the application fee for this visa is AUD$710. You can read more about student visas and their requirements here .

Australian PhDs are delivered in English and have language skill requirements. There are various tests you can take to verify your English language skills including the IELTS, CAE and PTE. The score you need is usually specified on the universities website and will depend on the test you take.

International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in order to be granted their student visa. There are a variety of providers to choose from, including many universities, but the policy you choose must adhere to the Overseas Student Health Cover guides. Explore your options in greater detail here .

The new international student working limit of 48 hours every fortnight does not apply to international students who are pursuing a doctorate or a master’s degree through research. These students are not restricted in terms of the number of hours they can work. However, your actual work hours should align with your study requirements and also require approval from your academic supervisor. This is to ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary objective of completing your academic research.

PhD study is an excellent way to enter the Australian workforce and graduate visas are available that can entitle you to stay in Australia for up to four years after you have finished your PhD. In other words, if you have dreams of both furthering your education and settling long-term in Australia, a PhD could be the perfect way to make those dreams a reality.

Sarah Price

Originally from the UK, Sarah has worked as a freelance writer for nearly 10 years, both at home and now in Perth where she lives. Once an international student in South West WA herself, she loves to help new students feel welcome, confident, and ready to make the most of their study abroad. Having lived in Perth and explored a lot of WA, Sarah knows just how wonderful it is to discover this beautiful state.

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PhD Degrees in Australia

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. PhD study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Australia are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Australian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment of the remaining study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Australia?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. In Australia, candidates can expect to pay 40,000 AUD- 60,000 AUD. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

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Apply for postgraduate research

Follow the below steps to apply* for a research degree as a domestic or international research student.

These steps apply unless you are interested in the  Sydney Law School  or the  Business School , in which case you apply for your course first and if successful are allocated a supervisor.

• Determine eligibility and suitable course
• Develop your research proposal and find a research supervisor
• Applying for scholarships to support your research degree
• Gather required documentation and s ubmit your application onlin e

*The steps listed on this page are a guide and applicable to most courses. Please also check if there are any faculty-specific requirements .

1. Determine eligibility and suitable course

To be eligible to pursue postgraduate research study you will need previous research experience and a high academic record.  You need to have undertaken a significant research project or thesis in your previous university-level studies.

This could be the equivalent of:

• an Australian honours degree
• a master’s by research degree
• a master’s by coursework with a thesis component (dissertation)

We also consider your undergraduate performance. You will need a bachelor's degree with first or upper second-class honours. Below is a guide based on the University of Sydney grading system, equivalent requirements will be determined for other institutions:

• WAM of 75 over degree
• Honours class I WAM greater than 80
• Honours class II WAM between 75 and 80

English language requirements depend on the course, your country of origin and educational background. Find out if you need to prove  English language proficiency .

To apply for a PhD, you need to demonstrate sufficient prior research experience and capability. In most cases, you will have either:

• a bachelor's degree with first or upper second-class honours, or
• a master's degree performed at a high academic standard, which includes a substantial component of research, or
• an equivalent qualification that demonstrates research experience, excellence and capability.

In most cases, to apply for a master’s by research or a Master of Philosophy, you need to have one of the following:

• a bachelor’s degree with first or second-class honours from the University of Sydney or another approved institution
• an equivalent qualification that demonstrates sufficient research experience and capability.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

2. Develop your research proposal and find a supervisor

Before you submit your application, you must first secure a supervisor. Carefully consider the subject of your research project and start to develop a research proposal to provide to potential academic supervisors. Your initial proposal will likely evolve, however, it is important to clearly explain your ideas about your research, show why your research is noteworthy and how it aligns with your proposed supervisor’s own research.

Check out these guidelines on how to  write a research proposal for a strong PhD application .

You can search for supervisors’ contact details via their academic profile, or you can search for supervisors and projects  by discipline, keywords, and research themes. Our faculty and research centre websites are also good places to start.

To support your enquiry, send an email describing your academic background and research experience, the topic you'd like to research and how your research project aligns with the work of your proposed supervisor. You must include your resume/CV, academic transcripts for all degrees and your initial research proposal. Please check your HDR course page on Sydney Courses for specific faculty requirements.

3. Applying for scholarships to support your research degree

We have one of the largest research scholarship  schemes in Australia. Scholarships can be a big help in funding your research or helping you with living costs while you do your research. Some scholarships are specific to a research project or discipline, and many are assessed on academic merit and research potential. Search for a scholarship .

When you submit your course application, you can elect to be automatically considered for the Research Training Program stipend. The stipend is competitively awarded and is based on academic merit and research potential.

For domestic students, you do not pay tuition fees as this is covered by the government Research Training Program fee offset. For international students, tuition fees are applicable. If you are an international student and are awarded RTP, this will cover your tuition fees and provide a stipend. Please note: there are limited places available in the Research Training Program for international students, and these are highly competitive.

Please refer to your course page on Sydney Courses for information about the fees you will need to pay, and also read our general information on fees and financial support .

Depending on your research project, many PhD students also work part-time to fund their study, similar to undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students.

4. Submit official application online with required documentation

Postgraduate research degree applications are open all year round, with most research intakes starting in Research Period 2 (March) and Research Period 3 (July). However, to be considered for the RTP stipend you will need to submit your application by these dates . You can still submit your course application past the RTP deadline but you will not receive a stipend outcome until the next round of RTP rankings.

Please check your course page on Sydney Courses for the research periods your faculty offers. We recommend applying as early as possible prior to your intended start date, and you will also need to discuss your start date with your supervisor.

International students are recommended to factor in the Department of Home Affairs visa processing times when considering a likely start date for their HDR course.

Documentation to include in your application form

When you have secured a supervisor, you will discuss and refine the project together. Once your research proposal is finalised, gather all the essential documents that you will need to submit with your application:

• Final research proposal. In conjunction with your supervisor, you’ll finalise your research proposal of up to 2000 words, covering the objectives and significance of your research. Refer to our  Research Proposal Guidelines .
• Official academic transcripts in the original language and English translation.
• Proof of English language proficiency if English is not your first language.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
• Evidence that a primary supervisor has agreed to supervise you. This could be a copy of the email correspondence showing the staff member’s agreement to supervise you. Sydney College of the Arts doesn’t require evidence of supervision, however, you must submit a portfolio with your application. The Sydney Conservatorium of Music may require you to attend an interview.
• Proof of identity: a valid passport (biodata page), an Australian birth certificate or an Australian or New Zealand citizenship certificate for domestic students.
• you’ll have sufficient time available to carry out the research under the supervision of the University and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time PhD enrolment
• a declaration from your employer (if relevant) confirming that you will be permitted to take the time required to effectively pursue your studies.
• Two referee reports (pdf, 113.7KB)
• Any other documents, such as a portfolio of work or audition, specified in the course listing for your degree.

International students  

If you are an international student, you will also need:

• To apply for your student visa, after you have received an offer of admission or an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) for an HDR course at the University.
• To pay a non-refundable  application processing fee . This fee is waived if you’re a sponsored student, or if you are granted an exemption by a University staff member during an office interview or recruitment event.
• If you would like to apply through an authorised University of Sydney agent, we have partnered with a range of  authorised agents who can apply to the University and make arrangements on your behalf.

Further information

Our frequently asked questions provide further information on our HDR courses and the application process.

You will need to pass  health and security checks  if your research involves fieldwork in the New South Wales hospital and education systems. The  course page  details explain what admission criteria you need to satisfy to get into the course. 

You may also need to apply for approval from the Animal Ethics and/or Human Research Ethics Committee .

Additional course requirements

*Please also refer to your faculty for additional admission requirements, or variations in the application process, which may apply.

How to write a research proposal

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Phd in australia: cost, scholarships, & admission requirements.

Are you considering pursuing a PhD in Australia? It can be a daunting process, but with the right information and preparation, it can also be a rewarding experience. Before you start your application, it’s important to understand what’s involved and what you need to do to make your application stand out. 

How Much Does PhD Cost in Australia?

The cost of pursuing a PhD in Australia varies depending on the university and the course. According to the Australian Government, fees to study a PhD in Australia range from AUD $18,000 to AUD $42,000 per year for international students.

Private universities are more expensive than public ones and might not provide access to the same financial aid programs such as grants and scholarships. The total course tuition fee for a PhD in Australia in top universities ranges from AUD $40,000 to AUD $60,000.

The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the location and lifestyle, but the Australian Government estimates that students will require at least AUD $21,041 (USD $14,400) for each year of their course.

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How Many Years is a PhD in Australia?

A full-time PhD in Australia usually takes three years, but some students may take longer depending on their registration and funding arrangements. Part-time PhDs in Australia can take up to six years, but this mode of study is not normally available to international students.

Who is Eligible for PhD in Australia? 

To be eligible for a PhD in Australia, applicants are required to meet certain requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the university and the course. Here are some general eligibility requirements for a PhD in Australia:

• A bachelor’s and master’s degree in a relevant subject are normally required to apply for a PhD in Australia.
• Applicants must have an excellent academic record, with a first-class undergraduate degree or a very high upper second class undergraduate degree.
• International students must have a high level of English language proficiency, which can be demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Applicants must have a research proposal that outlines their research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• Applicants must have a proven experience in conducting research.
• Applicants must have reference letters, research proposal, synopsis, etc. for which, if accepted, they receive a confirmation of acceptance letter.

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Do you get paid to do a phd australia.

Yes, PhD students in Australia are usually paid a stipend to cover their living expenses. The amount of the stipend may vary depending on the university and the funding source, but it is typically around AUD $32,000 per year.

The stipend is tax-free and paid in fortnightly instalments. In addition to the stipend, some universities may also cover tuition fees and other research-related expenses.

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What is top 20 universities in australia.

• Australian National University
• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• University of New South Wales
• University of Queensland
• Monash University
• University of Adelaide
• University of Western Australia
• RMIT University
• Queensland University of Technology
• Macquarie University
• Griffith University
• Curtin University
• University of Technology Sydney
• Deakin University
• University of Newcastle
• University of Wollongong
• La Trobe University
• University of Tasmania
• University of South Australia

Looking For Funded PhD Programs? Click Here

What is top 15 phd scholarships in australia.

• Deakin University, Australia Research Scholarships
• University of Sydney International Scholarships
• University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship
• Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
• University of Queensland Centenary Doctoral Scholarship
• University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship
• University of Western Australia International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• Monash University Research Training Program Stipend Scholarship
• University of New South Wales Scientia PhD Scholarship Scheme
• University of Newcastle International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• University of Tasmania Research Scholarship for International Students
• Australian National University PhD Scholarship
• University of Wollongong International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship
• University of Technology Sydney Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

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How to apply for a phd in the australia.

To apply for a PhD in Australia, here are the general steps to follow:

1. Research the universities: Research the universities that offer PhD programs in your field of study. Look at their rankings, research output, and faculty profiles to get an idea of their strengths and areas of expertise.

2. Contact a potential supervisor: Contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose.

3. Check the eligibility requirements: Check the eligibility requirements for the PhD program you are interested in. You’ll normally need a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a relevant subject to apply for a PhD in Australia. Universities may admit you based on your academic record.

4. Prepare your research proposal: Prepare a research proposal that outlines your research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

5. Apply for the program: Apply for the PhD program through the university’s online application system. Make sure to submit all the required documents, including your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English language proficiency test scores.

6. Wait for the response: Wait for the university’s response to your application. If you are accepted, you will receive a confirmation of acceptance letter.

7. Apply for a student visa: Apply for a student visa to study in Australia. You will need to provide proof of enrolment and financial support.

What is PhD Application materials in Australia?

When applying for a PhD in Australia, the following materials are typically required:

1. Academic transcripts: Applicants are required to submit their academic transcripts from their previous degrees.

2. English language proficiency test scores: International students are required to submit their English language proficiency test scores, such as IELTS or TOEFL.

3. Research proposal: Applicants must submit a research proposal that outlines their research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Applicants are required to submit their CV, which should include their academic and professional experience, publications, and other relevant information.

5. Reference letters: Applicants are required to submit reference letters from academic or professional referees who can attest to their research abilities and potential.

6. Confirmation of acceptance letter: Applicants must provide a confirmation of acceptance letter from a potential academic supervisor.

7. Student visa: International students are required to apply for a student visa to study in Australia.

Can I work while doing PhD in Australia?

Yes, PhD students in Australia are allowed to work while studying, but there are some restrictions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Work hours: PhD students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying in Australia This is to ensure that students can focus on their studies and not let work interfere with their academic performance.

2. Funding restrictions: If you are receiving a scholarship or funding for your PhD, there may be restrictions on the amount of work you can do. For example, if you are on an RTP scholarship, you may be limited to a maximum of 270 working hours per year.

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How to get your PhD in Australia, open up a world of possibilities

With unique PhD opportunities in everything from anthropology to zoology, excellent post-grad study visas and a country full of opportunity, it’s the ideal location for your PhD. Australia’s focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) and environmental issues make it one of the foremost research destinations in the world.

Benefits and job outcomes of studying your PhD in Australia

Your PhD can help you to get employment in Australia, and can be a pathway to permanent residency. Choosing the right area of study can give you specialised, in-demand knowledge that employers and Australia need.

There are a range of occupations on the Australian medium to long term skills shortage list. Studying in these areas strengthens the likelihood of gaining relevant employment after your PhD is complete, and this gives you an advantage for PR.

Australia also offers a generous graduate visa (485) that allows you to stay in the country once your degree is complete. It gives you time to find a job in your field and apply for a permanent visa. Once you’ve found employment, the visa system in Australia is points-based. Higher levels of education and studying within Australia award you more points, strengthening your application.

PhD duration

An Australian PhD, when studying full-time, takes around three years. While some students can study part time and stretch the PhD over six years, international students must study full time as part of their visa conditions.

PhD Structure in Australia

The Australian PhD is usually a pure research qualification. While there may be some taught modules or units, most of the course will be spent working towards your doctoral thesis. Once you have a thesis supervisor and have decided on your topic together, you’ll complete a literature review, then begin your own original research. This requires analysis of source materials, producing experimental results or collective survey data.

PhD assessment and examination process in Australia

You will be required to submit your thesis, which is generally around 80,000 - 100,000 words. There can also be practical components or presentations depending on the topic you have researched.

Often, you will be required to submit your thesis defence, or ‘viva voce’. This is when the student orally presents the thesis to a board of assessors, who will ask questions and require that you defend your process and results.

Sometimes, due to distance and isolation, viva voce is not required in Australia. Instead, your thesis will be sent to external examiners, who will study it and submit their written report on it. This process may take several months. The outcome of your thesis will be one of the following options:

• A pass: Awarded a doctorate without corrections
• Pass with minor corrections: Minor amendments noted
• Pass with major revisions: Amendments noted in the thesis
• Revise and re-examination: Requires the student to re-enrol for up to 12 months. The thesis will be resubmitted after changes are made as outlined by the examiners. Once changes are made and all concerns addressed, the thesis is re-examined in its entirety.
• Denial of PhD: Rare

PhD fees in Australia

Fees are high in Australia, but there are often funding and grants available to help subsidise the cost. International students can expect to pay between AU$18,000 and $42,000 a year. However, if your topic has funding attached, such as an in a high-demand STEM topic, the cost could be reduced considerably.

• Australian universities may fund scholarships, and these can be accessed through the university itself or you can check out PhD funded projects looking for candidates.

Students are also expected to pay for their cost of living, with the government anticipating the average cost of living requiring AU$21,041 a year.

Admission requirements for a PhD in Australia

In general, the first step for your PhD application is finding a potential supervisor. Universities won’t usually accept applications from international students who have not done this. Find someone in your field who is a lead researcher for an area of research related to your proposed topic. Send them an email, clearly outlining your interests and project idea.

• Concisely show the link between your proposed topic, and their research
• Outline your area of interest of study and proposed topics
• Show awareness for current debates and study within that field
• Identify any gaps in current knowledge
• Suggest your relevant research hypothesis that can fill one of these gaps
• Explain your intended approach to methodology
• Discuss implications for your research in the real world.

The university may then indicate they want to interview you online. This is a positive sign and indicates they think there is potential.

Once the supervisor has expressed an interest, you can formally apply to their university. Each university has their own requirements, but it’s likely you’ll need:

• an existing bachelor’s and master’s degree in an appropriate subject
• evidence of your qualifications
• your research proposal
• a personal statement
• professional and/or academic references
• evidence of English ability with an IELTS, TOEFL, CAE or PTE test

Start applications at least four months prior to your intended PhD start date.

How can you prepare for an interview?

The most important step in your PhD journey is finding your supervisor and thesis topic. The interview will be a crucial step in this journey. Preparing for this, and putting thought into the following questions, may help you.

There is no right or wrong answer to this. Your answer should address your passion, motivation, and also your ability to complete the PhD. This is a big undertaking and the interviewers need to know you have the drive to see this through to a successful completion.

Why did you choose this university? Why is it special or unique in its field? Are their certain supervisors or professors who are outstanding in their field? Are your goals aligned with theirs? Prove to the interviewers that you don’t just want a PhD; you want one from this institution.

While the interviewers will have read your CV/ Resume, this is your opportunity to ensure they understand your skills, strengths, and qualifications. Have you got examples from your bachelor’s degree or employment experience that makes you an ideal candidate for a PhD at their university?

Choose a strength that specifically relates to your PhD; are you a meticulous researcher? Do you love to understand the underlying reasons why things happen? Use some examples of a time this strength has helped you.

Be honest and choose a weakness you’re aware of. Talk about some examples, and the steps you are taking to overcome this. Do you procrastinate, so you have to set micro-goals?

Completing a PhD is a long, meticulous, often frustrating slog. You’re going to encounter a lot of problems. Provide an answer from your academic journey that shows your resourcefulness, ability to use your initiative, and how you overcame the problem.

• Why do you want to do a PhD?
• Why are you interested in this program?
• What experience makes you a good candidate?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Tell us about a time you experienced a setback

What PhD topics can you study in Australia?

The most common PhD programs in Australia are health, legal, education, engineering and biology/ biomedical sciences.

Health professions

From doctors to nursing, across a broad spectrum of physical and mental illnesses, PhDs are a valuable addition for those in the medical profession. Topics can include:

• Biochemistry
• Epidemiology
• Environmental health
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Explore more courses here

Engineering professions

A field that’s in demand world-wide, engineering has scope to specialise in:

• Civil engineering
• Computer engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Geological engineering
• Petroleum engineering

Explore engineering PHD programs here

Education professions

There are a range of specialties:

• Educational administration and policy
• Education policy
• Early Childhood education
• Teacher leadership
• Higher education

Explore education and teaching PHD courses here

Legal professions

A common PhD in law is the Juris Doctor (JD), but there is also the opportunity to complete a Doctor of Philosophy in some universities. A JD usually study general topics before choosing an area of interest such as business or public law. A PH.D in law is available after a JD graduates and allows trained lawyers to research a particular area of concern.

Biological and biomedical professions

With a combination of lab research and advanced coursework, PhD programs in offer several areas of specialisation.

• Developmental biology
• Biochemistry and molecular biology
• Cancer biology
• Genetics and genomics
• Gene therapy
• Neurobiology of disease

Contact IDP to find out more

Find out how IDP Education can help you search your dream course in Australia. With years of experience helping PhD candidates find supervisors, apply for universities, and get their student visas, we are uniquely qualified to help you.

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Domestic postgraduate research tuition fees

All domestic students enrolled in a postgraduate research program, such as a Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Philosophy, are awarded an Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) Fee Offset Scholarship.

The AGRTP is funded by the Commonwealth government and provides support to students completing a research degree program.

The AGRTP Fee Offset Scholarship provides support for the research program up to a maximum of two years (full-time) for a Masters program, and up to four years for a PhD program (or part-time equivalent). This means that domestic students are exempt from paying tuition fees for this period of time.

If you enrol in additional subjects/courses during your enrolment you may incur tuition fees.

Research students are required to pay the services and amenities fee.

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Australia has way more PhD graduates than academic jobs. Here’s how to rethink doctoral degrees

Research Officer, Victoria University

Lecturer, Monash University

Teaching Associate, Faculty of Education, Monash University, Monash University

Teaching Associate, Monash University

Disclosure statement

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Monash University provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU.

Victoria University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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This article is part of our series on big ideas for the Universities Accord . The federal government is calling for ideas to “reshape and reimagine higher education, and set it up for the next decade and beyond”. A review team is due to finish a draft report in June and a final report in December 2023.

One of the key reasons for doing a a doctoral research degree or PhD is to pursue an academic career. But this dream is becoming increasingly far-fetched, due to a decline in academic positions and a steady increase in Australians undertaking PhDs.

The number of PhD completions has been steadily growing over the past two decades, from about 4,000 to about 10,000 per year.

According to our calculations* based on the information available , the cumulative number of people in Australia with a PhD has increased from about 135,000 in 2016 to about 185,000 in 2021.

But the number of academic positions has shrunk. Australia saw a significant decrease in academic staff from 54,086 in 2016 to 46,971 in 2021 as universities cut costs during the pandemic.

As the Universities Accord review examines how our higher education system needs to work, we need to rethink who is doing a PhD and how their degrees are structured.

Why has the number of PhDs grown?

There are plenty of incentives to keep PhD candidates coming through the system. Some federal government funding to universities is based on research degree completions . PhDs are also free for domestic students.

On top of this, universities put pressure on academic staff to supervise successful PhD students. This is used as one of the criteria for promotions.

Where do PhD graduates go?

There is no official data on how many PhD graduates go on to work in academia. About 25% of PhD graduates got some employment in academia according to a small-scale survey in 2011.

Our estimates suggest this figure has not changed much as of 2021. If there are about 185,000 people with a PhD, this is four times higher than the number of available academic positions (46,971).

We also know some PhD students struggle to get work outside of academia, despite the prestigious nature of their qualifications.

The 2022 Graduate Outcomes Survey found 84.7% of research degree graduates (which includes masters degrees by research as well as PhDs) were in full-time employment within six months of completing their studies. This compares with 78.5% of undergraduates.

Read more: Australian unis could not function without casual staff: it is time to treat them as 'real' employees

Where do PhDs want to work?

It is true not all PhD candidates and graduates want an academic career.

A 2019 national survey found 51% of all PhD students surveyed wanted to find a job in business or the public sector.

But here, students’ field of study makes a big difference.

Two-thirds of PhD students in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and maths) were hoping to work in industry. The banking, civil engineering, mining, energy and medical/pharmaceutical sectors are the top employers of PhD graduates .

Meanwhile, two-thirds of PhD students in social sciences (including history, politics, education, sociology, psychology, economics, and anthropology) wanted to stay in academia.

Read more: Why arts degrees and other generalist programs are the future of Australian higher education

To understand how people with social sciences PhDs navigate employment, we conducted 23 in-depth interviews with doctoral graduates from five Australian universities. All interviewees graduated less than five years before the interviews.

Our research uncovered two distinct themes.

1. A stable academic job is almost impossible to find

Of the group, only one had gained a continuing academic position within five years of graduation. Thirteen were on precarious contracts (either casual or fixed-term) while three were doing a “postdoc” or research fellowship (which are also often a fixed-term contract). Six worked in either the private sector or government.

As one interviewee told us:

[PhD candidates should] put aside the assumption that […] because you’ve got a PhD, you will automatically get a job. That’s not the case. There are many many many PhDs out there who cannot find work or are working in what we call menial jobs or ‘survivor’ jobs.

Another emphasised the insecure nature of working in academia:

I’ve been working as a sessional [employed on contracts per semester] in higher education, basically full-time on a million contracts.

Some participants moved in and out of academia while holding a slim hope of finding a continuing position:

If I don’t get an academic job within one year or two years, then it’s kind of over for me […].

2. There is not enough career support or preparation

While ongoing academic jobs were very difficult to obtain, PhD graduates said they were not well-prepared for the labour market outside academia.

There is a sharp contrast between university and non-university occupations in terms of workplace cultures and employer expectations. For example, industry employers want skills needed for work rather than qualifications or publications. PhD graduates moving out of academia have had to re-train themselves.

As one participant told us:

They were less impressed by the publications. They were more interested in the skills that I got. […] So I did some online data courses [like] LinkedIn courses, and then I tried to apply for some jobs with these skills and in this direction.

Another participant said they had to hide their doctoral degree for fear of being seen as overqualified. Meanwhile, meaningful career advice was thin on the ground.

[My university] didn’t actually do anything to support me in getting my job.

Read more: 'Very few companies are open for international students': South Asian graduates say they need specific support to find jobs

How to rethink doctoral education

The diverse and insecure employment outcomes of the PhD graduates in our study strongly point to a need for universities to rethink how they educate PhD students.

Firstly, this includes offering specific career education as part of PhD programs. This may require universities to be upfront about the employment prospects for PhD graduates and research funding climate .

Career consultations from both universities’ career centres and industry experts should be offered early in PhD programs to help students make informed decisions about future options. For those who would like to pursue a traditional academic career, it is important to have ongoing career guidance from their supervisors and research offices.

Secondly, there needs to be more structured work experience. Universities should strengthen their partnerships with industry to facilitate work experience. Those seeking academic jobs also need to be provided with meaningful opportunities to work alongside academic staff in both teaching activities and research projects.

Thirdly, universities need to ensure doctoral programs better prepare students for employment possibilities inside and outside academia.

This includes opportunities to build transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, analytical skills, and leadership.

This specifically needs to include teaching students how to write and speak for different audiences beyond academia, including policymakers and the public.

This needs to include admissions

Lastly, we also need to take a hard look at PhD admissions. There is currently no limit on PhD numbers and the more admissions universities have, the more funding they will earn when students graduate.

To balance supply and demand, the government should consider quotas for funding PhD students in each field. This would also help select the most suitable PhD candidates, who are most likely to benefit from the rigours of doctoral study.

This may not be a popular move – but we have be more realistic about whether accepting more and more people into three-plus years of intense study is benefiting the students, or simply generating funds for universities.

*These figures have been adjusted for life expectancy and overseas PhD graduates returning to their home country.

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Is a PhD worth it?

Careers Published 8 Feb, 2024  ·  9-minute read

Studying a higher degree by research isn’t something you choose to do overnight – well, not for most people. So, to help you make this decision, we’ve reached out to some alumni and compiled some data to help you work out if a Doctor of Philosophy would be worthwhile for you.

When you’re considering such a big academic step, it’s normal to wonder: is a PhD worth it?

Anecdotal evidence and statistics both tell us the benefits of PhD study do indeed outweigh the time and effort required. Let’s explore:

• why a PhD is worth it (personal and professional benefits)
• worthwhile reasons to pursue a PhD
• the average salary of a PhD graduate (financial value of a PhD).

Is it worth doing a PhD? (Personal and professional benefits)

For UQ PhD alumni Angie Knaggs, Benjamin Jones and Brigid Lynch, answering this question in hindsight is easy – and the answer is a resounding yes . Their stories may help you make this choice without that advantage of hindsight.

My PhD is as much a part of my identity as the colour of my hair.

Angie’s PhD was a natural continuation of the theses she wrote during her honours and master’s programs, focusing on popular culture representations of masculinity in crisis. In short, she studied the connections in language, culture and communication in shows like Prison Break – rather than watching them for the drama like most of us do.

“I’ve always connected strongly with work in gender and performativity,” says Angie.

“I found the deep dive into thinking and analysis rewarding and engaging. My final thesis remains the piece of work I’m most proud of – even after a decade!”

Her career after completing her PhD was rocky at first. But, as is often the case, the hurdles in the journey ended up emphasising the successes.

“I was very focused on applying for an early-career academic role with the aim of becoming a full-time academic,” says Angie.

“I had experienced a good deal of academic success, and I had publications in top journals. I felt certain I was in a good position to achieve my dreams.

“I went to interview after interview, and it was disheartening to hear how I was almost it or not quite it . What it was, I could never quite work out, but it became increasingly clear to me that I didn’t have it .”

After tutoring and course convening at multiple universities for a while (and quickly growing bored of the constant commuting between campuses), Angie decided to apply for some roles that looked fun and interesting, even if they weren’t at traditional universities. This is how she accidentally fell into – and fell in love with – a whole new world: teaching film studies .

Angie’s new path eventually led to her current role as Senior Learning Specialist – Employability with UQ’s School of Languages and Cultures . Here, she uses her intercultural competencies and higher order thinking skills to great use, as well as publishing about her work in international journals.

“I don’t think I would have been open to following a new pathway if I hadn’t let go of the assumption that my doctorate automatically meant I would have a traditional academic career,” she says.

“Letting that go involved some deep self-work, but it was worth it.”

Now, with over a decade to reflect, Angie sees her PhD as an essential part of how she got to where she is today as well as a vital factor in all her successful career steps along the way.

“I like to think of my PhD as the ultimate employability bootcamp,” she says.

“My PhD gave me an edge – a way of thinking about problems in different ways. It taught me resilience, the ability to pivot and the ability to give and receive feedback. It has also helped get my CV to the top of the pile.”

My PhD equipped me well to move in and out of different roles until I found the one which was best for me.

Ben's career has evolved quite a lot since completing his PhD, in which he investigated the rehabilitation and revegetation of bauxite tailings. 

"I chose this topic as I'm interested in environmental science," he says. 

"I thought that mine rehabilitation was an important and in-demand area which I could contribute to." 

And he has indeed been contributing to this field – most recently in his role with the Queensland Department of Environment and Science, which has allowed him to do satisfying and technical work behind the scenes on high-profile projects. His journey since graduating has been filled with rewarding stepping stones across various positions. 

"I've worked in academia and within the private and public sector," says Ben.

"My PhD equipped me well to move in and out of different roles until I found the one which was best for me."

The benefits of a PhD have been obvious and numerous to Ben, both in terms of the career opportunities and lifestyle advantages available. But these benefits aren't necessarily things you have to wait for – you may experience some of them while studying.

"From a remuneration perspective alone, some industry PhD scholarships are quite attractive," says Ben. 

"They also offer flexible working hours, and this offers time for other commitments."

"Workplaces are becoming more competitive, especially for recent graduates. Attaining a PhD provides graduates with valuable work experience and specialist knowledge within their chosen field."

Ben recognises a higher degree by research isn't for everyone, but he also sees multiple reasons why a PhD is worth it for candidates.

"Obtaining a PhD is only one of many options, and having a PhD isn't a prerequisite for success," he says. 

"However, a PhD is a requirement for many positions within academia or research, so for people embarking on this career path, a PhD is likely essential." 

He also believes the PhD path can provide:

• a great opportunity for graduates to ease into working life while still enjoying the familiarity of university life
• a fantastic environment filled with talented and hardworking people, where graduates who haven't landed their dream job can gain work experience and improve their career prospects .

Ultimately, Ben believes the decision of whether to pursue a PhD comes down to personal circumstances and goals. 

"I think people need to weigh up their different options and decide what’s best for them."

I now get to work with some of the world's most talented and inspiring epidemiologists. I couldn't think of a better job.

Brigid completed a PhD in population health, looking specifically at how physical activity could impact quality of life for colorectal cancer patients. Her motivation and drive came from combining her previous study areas with a personal passion for the topic.

“The project brought together my undergraduate training (Human Movement Studies and Psychology at UQ) with my interest in epidemiology,” says Brigid.

“So, it was something I could really commit to for the long haul.”

Not long after finishing her PhD, Brigid received a postdoctoral fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council, funding her for 2 years of international work followed by 2 years back in Australia.

“Having a PhD is a passport to live and work around the globe,” she says.

“As a postdoctoral fellow, I moved to Alberta, Canada, to work with one of the world’s leading researchers in the physical activity and cancer field. After 2 years of snow and Chinook winds, I returned to Australia.

“One of my career highlights was being funded to spend 3 months working at the University of Bristol. Being able to work and study abroad has opened up a lot of opportunities for research collaboration.”

Brigid is now Deputy Head of the Cancer Epidemiology Division at Cancer Council Victoria.

As someone who continues to work in research, Brigid says the benefits of having a PhD are still obvious to her every day. However, she also recognises how a higher degree by research can help those who follow other paths – just like Angie.

“Even for people who want to work in industry or for government, I think there are very clear benefits of a PhD,” says Brigid.

“So many of the skills you develop when doing a PhD are transferrable, such as project management, critical thinking and strong communication.”

An unexpected benefit of a PhD

While Angie and Brigid’s thesis topics and PhD journeys were quite different, there’s one thing they have in common: the first thing that came to mind when asked for the highlights of studying their PhD at UQ. They both went straight to talking about the people.

“The colleagues and friends I met along the journey are a highlight,” says Angie.

“My supervisor remains one of my closest friends and a long-time mentor.”

Brigid whole-heartedly agrees.

“I met some great people along the way, many of whom I still work with in one way or another,” she says.

“I really enjoy dropping into the School of Public Health when I’m in town.”

Building a supportive network was a key benefit for Ben, too.

"My research organisation placed a high value on networking and provided opportunities to grow," he says. 

"I've remained in contact with my PhD supervisor and some of my colleagues, and this has given me a network of old friends at UQ."

Doing your PhD at UQ means you'll get to create connections with some of the most influential and highly cited researchers in the country . And yes, some of these researchers might just become your lifelong friends.

Reasons to pursue a PhD

A good way to determine whether a PhD is worth it for you is to consider your motivations – what are your reasons to do a PhD?

For Angie, this boils down to asking yourself 2 key questions:

• Why do you want to do a PhD?
• What do you want to get out of it ?

Hint from Angie: “If the answer to either question involves any person other than yourself, that’s a red flag. You should only ever do a PhD for yourself. It will be the toughest challenge you ever set for yourself – and it’s only worth doing if you’re doing it for yourself.”

Brigid suggests adding these 2 questions to your decision-making process:

• Are you passionate about your field and topic?
• Can you make a difference to the community or contribute new knowledge that could make change happen?

If your reasons to do a PhD are genuine and you have a strong vision of what you’ll study and why, this may make your decision clearer.

The financial value of a PhD

Reading Angie and Brigid’s stories may lead you to think that most candidates are driven solely by their passion for research and that the PhD starting salary is irrelevant. But this is a valid and common consideration for many people. After all, knowing what to expect from a PhD graduate salary can help you justify pursuing your doctorate and plan appropriately for your future career.

The median salary of a PhD graduate is around $96,000pa , though it’s important to note this figure can vary significantly depending on your field.

Wondering if you'll get a PhD income while you study? Find out more about living stipend scholarships .

While making decent money is an enticing perk, perhaps the more important financial benefit of having a PhD is the higher chance of getting (and staying) employed in the first place. According to QILT's Graduate Outcomes Survey , in 2022, the overall employment rate for postgraduate research students in Australia was 91.9%, with 84.7% of graduates in full-time employment.

A comprehensive report from Ribit.net and the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute shows there is increasing demand for PhD graduates across many industries in Australia. Some of the nation’s most competitive firms are recruiting higher degree by research students from a wide range of disciplines. This further proves Angie and Brigid’s point about PhD research equipping graduates with transferrable and highly employable skills – skills that are recognised beyond the realm of academia.

So, what makes PhD graduates so employable? Well, at UQ, we expect our Career Development Framework plays a large part. This gives all our researchers access to workshops and other opportunities to capitalise on their research skills and turn them into industry practice. 

UQ is also home to UniQuest , leaders in research commercialisation. Our researchers can work with UniQuest to translate their academic discoveries into commercial products, effectively taking their research to market.

Whether you’re driven by personal passions, academic ambitions, financial goals or a combination of all these reasons to pursue a PhD, the evidence is strong: a PhD is worth it.

Start your journey today

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Do I get a refund if I paid off my HECS last year? How do I get the payment?

Nicole from Sydney was out with friends when she found out the federal government had made changes to the way HECS or HELP loans were indexed.

She was shocked, and not in a good way.

"My gut dropped because I'd just paid off $36,000."

Nicole's student debt was affecting her ability to buy her first home.

"The difference that my having a HECS debt made to my borrowing power was close to $100,000. Obviously, with house prices the way that they are at the moment, not having that extra $100,000 of borrowing capacity was the difference between me being able to buy a property and not being able to buy a property," Nicole explained.

So, she decided to pay the debt off, using the savings she'd earmarked for her home deposit.

That payment went through on May 2, just days before the federal government announced it would tie indexation to either CPI or the wage price index (WPI), whichever was lower, and backdate the change to last year.

The change would see indexation for the previous year slashed from 7.1 per cent, to 3.2 per cent.

The tax office will apply credits to current and former students' loans to reflect the lower rate.

Paying WPI instead of CPI on last year's debt would have saved Nicole around $1,600. But paying it off in a lump sum means she has no tax office debt to credit.

She got in touch with Hack to find out if she'll get any of that money back.

Do I get backpay if paid my HECS off last year?

In a word, yes.

We asked the office of Federal Education Minister Jason Clare for a bit more detail.

"Anyone who paid off their HELP loan during the year will receive an indexation credit once legislation has passed and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has processed the indexation credit," a spokesperson for the minister said.

"Individuals who have fully paid their HELP loan may receive their indexation credit as a cash refund, if they have no other tax liability."

In other words, if you don't owe the tax office any money this year, you could be getting a nice tax return.

How do I get the credit on my loan?

The 'credit' — which is the difference between the amount of money you paid when the loan was calculated under CPI, versus what it is now under WPI, will be applied by the tax office automatically.

Essentially, it'll be used to draw down your overall loan.

But if you don't have a loan because you paid it off, like Nicole, you could get it back in the form of a return when you lodge your tax this year.

Retrospective changes 'frustrating'

It's important to note that only people who were subject to last year's 7.1 per cent indexation are eligible for a credit.

Thomas from Melbourne sought advice from his accountant before deciding to raid his savings and pay off a whopping $45,000 in debt in May last year – weeks before the 7.1 per cent indexation was applied.

"I paid off prior to the 7.1 per cent indexation being applied to avoid incurring an extra approximately $3,500 being applied to my HECS debt," Thomas told Hack.

"However, if it was known that the indexation was to be changed to be the lower of CPI or WPI, that would've informed my decision and I would not have voluntarily repaid, instead, retaining the sum to put towards a house deposit."

Thomas acknowledges that the changes will be positive for a lot of people but says it's "frustrating" that the government applied the changes retrospectively.

"How can young people best plan, financially, for the future, when the government moves the goal posts?"

Just under 3 million Australians have a HECS or HELP debt, and the federal government says lowering the rate of indexation will cost the federal budget around $3 billion in revenue foregone.

HECS and HELP indexation is applied annually, every June – and the effect of its addition is to bump up the amount owed, in line with inflation.

The 7.1 per cent rise last year, based on CPI — which the government, under the change, is now reversing – was the highest hike since 1990.

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