About Doctor Of Philosophy (integrated) in Victoria University

Overview

Follow your academic path to its highest level, with a PhD in economics. If you're a graduate with little previous research experience, our integrated program makes it possible to achieve your goals.

PhD in Economics integrated program

A PhD in economics opens the door to a career in public policy, academia or the finance sector. Choose your topic from our diverse research areas, from health and education to banking, tourism and transportation.

We have dozens of respected research partners including:

• World Health Organization
• China Energy Research Institute
• Department of State Development, Business and Innovation
• Central University of Finance and Economics (China).

In our integrated program, you’ll spend the first year learning best-practice, ethical research methods. On passing with a 70% average in coursework and a thesis, you’ll begin your own original research. Throughout, you’ll have the support of an experienced supervisor.

You’ll develop skills to present your findings as a thesis, and in public forums and publications.

Research programs in economics

The newly formed Institute for Sustainable Industries & Liveable Cities incorporates study areas from the Victoria Institute of Strategic Economic Studies (VISES) and its five main research programs:

• growth and development
• sustainability and climate change
• regional economics and human impact
• health and innovation
• education and human capital.

Our PhD students undertake research in areas of their own interest and passion, ranging from public financial-management reform, to women's roles in society and the economy.

Research opportunities & development

VU Research gives you opportunities to:

• connect with other researchers
• participate in research festivals and competitions
• develop your research skills
• get funding for your research
• publish and promote your findings.

We offer support for graduate researchers including:

• an orientation program
• a specialised Office for Researcher Training, Quality & Integrity
• study spaces
• units to help you conceptualise and contextualise your research
• research ambassadors and student association.

Careers in economics policy and research

Following your PhD, you’ll be ready for a research or advisory career in business or government, or to become an academic. These are usually high-level roles, and paid accordingly. The average salary for an economist in Australia is above A$100,000 (JobOutlook(external link)).

We offer industry connections to begin your career in these areas:

• development
• economics
• education
• environment
• health
• law
• logistics
• population growth
• sustainability
• tourism
• transportation.

Academic qualification equivalents:

Entry into a research program (postgraduate study) requires completion of:

• an honours degree, or
• a masters degree by coursework with a research component, or
• an equivalent qualification from an approved university.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS           :    Overall score of 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
• TOEFL          :   Test score of 79. Section score no less than:Listening: 19, Speaking: 19, Reading: 18, Writing: 22
• PTE              :    Overall score 58-64 (with no section score less than 50)

Victoria University Highlights

Victoria University Average Tuition Fees And Other Expenses

The average tuition fees and other expenses at Victoria University vary depending on the course and level of study. Here is a general overview of the estimated costs for international students:

1. Tuition fees: The tuition fees for international students at Victoria University range from approximately AUD$24,000 to AUD$40,000 per year, depending on the course and level of study.

2. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): International students are required to have health insurance while studying in Australia. The cost of OSHC varies depending on the duration of your course and your chosen provider, but it generally ranges from approximately AUD$500 to AUD$2,000 per year.

3. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation will depend on whether you choose to live on or off campus, as well as the type of accommodation you choose. On-campus accommodation ranges from approximately AUD$200 to AUD$400 per week, while off-campus accommodation can range from AUD$150 to AUD$350 per week.

4. Living expenses: The cost of living in Melbourne will depend on your lifestyle and spending habits. As a general guide, you should budget for approximately AUD$20,000 to AUD$25,000 per year to cover expenses such as food, transportation, and entertainment.

It's important to note that these are only estimates, and the actual costs may vary depending on your individual circumstances. Additionally, domestic students may have different fee structures and funding options available to them. It's recommended to check the university's website for more detailed information on tuition fees and other expenses.