PhD (Applied Chemistry)

About the course

RMIT’s PhD (Applied Chemistry) is a research degree where you undertake an original project in applied chemistry and develop advanced research capabilities under expert supervision. You will contribute new knowledge and practical outcomes relevant to science and industry, and build skills in research design, experimentation, analysis and scholarly communication. This is a doctoral qualification in sciences with a focus on applied chemistry research. The programme advances scientific inquiry through supervised laboratory or field research, data analysis, and thesis-based discovery.

Career outcome

Graduates may pursue research and leadership roles in chemical and materials laboratories, environmental and analytical testing, and R&D settings across industry, government and academia. The qualification supports careers such as research scientist, analytical chemist, materials/chemical R&D specialist, or university researcher/academic, as well as specialist consulting roles. This is a PhD pathway for advanced careers in sciences and applied chemistry. Preparing graduates for scientific research, R&D leadership, and doctoral study in the sciences.

Living Costs in Sydney**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 22	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 2,207 - 2,918	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,599 - 2,115
Transportation (Daily) A$ 9 - 10	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 219 - 290

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)