Deakin-Coventry Cotutelle Program
Join Deakin's largest Cotutelle partnership
Undertake a transformative research journey across Australia and the UK and graduate with two internationally recognised testamurs.
About the Deakin-Coventry program
Launched in 2016, the Deakin-Coventry Cotutelle PhD Program has become Deakin’s largest Cotutelle partnership. Spanning all four faculties at both universities, it offers one of the most diverse opportunities available to graduate researchers, with projects ranging from dance to children's physical activity.
Through the program, you’ll complete a jointly supervised PhD across Australia and the UK, with access to facilities, expertise and research networks at both institutions. On graduation, you’ll receive two testamurs, an internationally recognised qualification that strengthens your career prospects.
Deakin’s position as Australia's 6th leading research institution and as Victoria’s #3 university for research impact, together with Coventry’s 5 QS stars for research* and ranking as the 9th modern university in the UK^, make this joint program a truly outstanding research pathway with global credibility.
How the Deakin-Coventry program works
Typically, students begin their PhD at their home institution, then spend up to 12 months of their program at their host institution, before returning to their home institution. Candidates must be willing to relocate to both locations to meet the residency requirement.
The next major intake for the program will be in September 2026, with applications opening in early 2026 and closing in May 2026. This page will be updated with details of future intakes as they're confirmed.
For Deakin-led students
Deakin-led candidates receive a full-tuition fee waiver, a living stipend equivalent to the Australian Research Training Program (RTP) rate (AUD$37,450 p.a. in 2025), one return airfare and visa and health insurance support.
For Coventry-led students
Coventry-led candidates receive a stipend of approximately £20,780 p.a., a tuition fee waiver, one return airfare and visa and health insurance support.
Discover available Deakin-Coventry scholarships
Ready to explore? Use our scholarship finder tool and type ‘Coventry’ in the search bar to see all currently available scholarships.
The Deakin-Coventry program provided me with invaluable support through expert supervision, access to diverse research communities and tailored guidance.
Doctoral Fellow, Deakin-Coventry PhD Program
Experience the best of the UK and Australia
A Cotutelle PhD isn’t just about research – it's also about immersing yourself in two cultures. As a Deakin-Coventry candidate, you’ll live, study and thrive in both Coventry in the UK and at Deakin in Victoria, Australia, each offering unique experiences beyond your research.
Life in Coventry
Coventry is a student-friendly city with live music, festivals and international cuisine. Its central location puts London, Birmingham and much of Europe within reach, while its affordability makes it easier to enjoy everything on offer. With a diverse community and modern facilities, international students quickly feel at home here.
Life at Deakin
At Deakin’s Waurn Ponds campus in Geelong, you’ll find advanced research facilities and a close-knit student community. The coastal setting offers a relaxed lifestyle, while Melbourne – Australia's cultural capital – is just an hour away. Deakin also has campuses at Burwood, Geelong Waterfront and Warrnambool.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
*QS Stars University Ratings
^ The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Contact us
Enquire about studying a PhD through the Deakin-Coventry Cotutelle Program.
