APPLY NOW ➤

HDR Fees & Cost

This page provides a brief explanation of the fees and costs involved in undertaking a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) through the School of Theology at Charles Sturt University, including information relevant to students based at St Mark’s.

Research degrees fees and cost

Domestic students

Most domestic HDR candidates at Charles Sturt are eligible for a Commonwealth Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset, which means:

  • No tuition fees are charged for the standard duration of your degree (2 years full-time for a Master by Research; 3–4 years full-time for a PhD).
  • You are responsible for general living expenses, books, travel, and any applicable student services and amenities fees (SSAF; around $320 per year [subject to change]). The SSAF fee goes towards providing non-academic support services and facilities.  The SSAF can be paid upfront or deferred through SA-HELP, if eligible. 

Additional costs to consider

  • Research-related travel (e.g. conferences or fieldwork)
  • Editing or printing of your thesis, if needed
  • Technology or software specific to your research

Financial support

  • Many students receive scholarships, stipends, or grants (e.g. RTP stipend) to assist with living costs or research expenses.
  • St Mark’s may also provide access to additional funding opportunities, especially for research aligned with its mission.

Still have questions?

If you need more information, or have any questions about our HDR program, please do not hesitate to contact Charles Sturt graduate research office.

Get it touch

Our research degrees

Explore our research degrees (MPhil and PhD) today!

Explore HDR programs
Keep in touch with our eNews

© 2025  St Mark’s National Theological Centre

A PARTNER IN THE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AT

Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt University,  CRICOS Provider: 00005F,  TEQSA Provider Identification: PRV12018 (Australian university)

Contact  |  Privacy  |  Safety  |  Disclaimer  |  Copyright  |  Accessibility  |  Shipping