Doctor of Philosophy

Domestic students who are eligible can apply for a Research Training Program (RTP) supported place, which provides a tuition fee offset funded by the Australian Government's Research Training Program, with Southern Cross University supplementing this cost to cover the full program tuition fees. If unsuccessful in obtaining an RTP place, students may be required to pay fees. International students are charged $35,000 per annum for 2026, increasing slightly each following year, unless a tuition fee waiver has been approved by the Dean, Graduate School.

Yes, you are required to approach and confirm a principal supervisor and a co-supervisor for your intended candidature before starting your application. SCU provides a supervisor database to help you find an appropriate supervisor based on your intended research topic.

A Doctoral Thesis must embody all of the following: reviewing literature in a critical and focused manner; deploying analytic, comparative and critically reflective skills as appropriate; gathering and analysing material and interpreting results in an informed and competent manner; utilising and justifying appropriate methodologies, techniques and processes; making an original and significant contribution to knowledge and understanding in the field; and demonstrating a high-level capacity for independent research.

Yes, international students can request a tuition fee offset, but it can only be approved by the Dean, Graduate School, providing there is support from the Principal Supervisor, DHDRT and Associate Dean (Research). The criteria considered include the academic quality of the student being of high standing, appropriate English proficiency (IELTS Academic minimum 7.0 in Writing and no other band less than 6.5), expected research outcomes and quality of project, whether the Faculty and Supervisory team have adequate resources, and evidence that the applicant can support themselves financially during candidature if not on a scholarship.

To apply, you should first ensure you meet the degree entry requirements, then prepare a research proposal to assist your application and help find an appropriate supervisor. Next, you need to approach and confirm a principal supervisor and a co-supervisor. International applicants new to SCU and domestic applicants (new and returning) each have separate application portals. You can also contact the Graduate School at gradschool@scu.edu.au or by phone at +61 2 6620 3219 or +61 2 6626 9186 for further assistance.