Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing/Midwifery) (CRICOS course code 010651D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Flinders University over 4 years. This program is designed for registered nurses and midwives who wish to pursue advanced research in nursing or midwifery practice, policy, or education. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00114A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Flinders University, a government-funded institution based in Adelaide, South Australia, offers this doctoral program at its Bedford Park campus and in partnership with the Riverland Campus-Renmark and Paringa District Hospital in Renmark. Students will engage in original research contributing to the field of health sciences, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and healthcare systems. The course is taught in English and requires a high level of academic proficiency. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, clinical practice, or health policy. Australia boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this doctoral degree is among the highest-level qualifications available to international students under the ESOS Act protections.
This doctoral program falls under the field of education code 06 - Health, specifically 0603 - Nursing and 060303 - Midwifery. At AQF Level 10, candidates are expected to produce a substantial thesis that demonstrates original research and contributes significantly to knowledge in nursing or midwifery. Typical areas of investigation include clinical practice innovations, healthcare policy, maternal and child health, chronic disease management, and health service delivery. Students work under the supervision of experienced researchers and are encouraged to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. The program develops advanced skills in research methodology, data analysis, academic writing, and critical thinking. While each student's learning path is unique, the overarching goal is to produce research that directly benefits the Australian healthcare system and global nursing and midwifery communities. Flinders University's strong links with hospitals and health services provide rich opportunities for applied research. Note that this page describes the field generally; for a detailed syllabus, contact the provider directly.
According to the CRICOS register, Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing/Midwifery) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual or joint degree). It is not a foundation studies program nor a VET course (VET national code: N/A). Students are expected to enrol full-time and complete within the standard timeframe, though extensions may be possible with prior approval. The program does not include a mandatory work component, but candidates may seek part-time work in related fields subject to visa conditions. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is typically a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). Flinders University may offer flexible study arrangements for doctoral candidates, but the CRICOS registration reflects the standard full-time pathway.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$158,200, with non-tuition fees of A$3,065, giving an estimated total of A$161,265. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are set by Flinders University. Important: The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year), weekly living expenses (see section on South Australia), and the current Visa Application Charge (A$1,600 as of 2026). Fees are indicative and subject to change; always verify with Flinders University before applying. For the most up-to-date fee schedule, visit the Flinders University website (flinders.edu.au). HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge any referral fees or commissions.
Typical entry requirements for this doctoral program include an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0), or an equivalent English language test approved by Flinders University. Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree (or honours degree at AQF Level 8) in nursing, midwifery, or a closely related health discipline. A strong academic record and demonstrated research capability, such as a research thesis or publications, are highly regarded. Some candidates may be required to submit a research proposal or attend an interview. There are no foundation or pathway options specifically for this course due to its advanced level; however, Flinders University offers preparatory programs for other levels. Always refer to the provider's official website for precise requirements. Remember that meeting minimum entry criteria does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete internships, placements, or work experience as part of the program. However, many doctoral candidates choose to engage in teaching, research assistance, or clinical work outside of study hours. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any such work is optional and not assessed.
Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing/Midwifery) is delivered at two locations in South Australia: Bedford Park (within the suburb of Bedford Park, Adelaide) and Riverland Campus-Renmark and Paringa District Hospital in Renmark. Bedford Park is the main campus of Flinders University, located about 12 km south of Adelaide's city centre. It is accessible by bus and train, with a vibrant student population. Renmark is a regional town in the Riverland region, approximately 250 km north-east of Adelaide. The Riverland Campus offers a rural and remote healthcare context. Adelaide has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging A$300–A$500. Public transport in Adelaide is affordable, with a concession fare of around A$2.50 per trip for students. Renmark has limited public transport, so a car may be necessary. Both locations provide unique research environments: urban hospital and research centres in Bedford Park, and rural health services in Renmark. The combination allows students to explore diverse healthcare settings.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: full-time enrolment, maintenance of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied to demonstrate genuine intention to study in Australia. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act, which provides legal protections such as tuition assurance and refund policies if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing/Midwifery) at Flinders University: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers using HeadStart Academy to verify registration and compare courses. Ensure Flinders University (CRICOS 00114A) offers this exact program. Step 2: Apply directly to Flinders University via their online application system. Prepare documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal, CV, and references. Note application deadlines and any faculty-specific requirements. Step 3: If accepted, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Begin your studies upon visa grant.
South Australia is home to over 70 CRICOS-registered providers, including three major universities. The state offers a welcoming environment for international students, with Adelaide consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. Weekly living costs (indicative) include: rent (shared) A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, transport A$30–A$50, and utilities A$40–A$60. OSHC adds approximately A$500–A$700 per year. Adelaide's public transport is student-friendly with a concession metrocard. The city has a strong healthcare research ecosystem, with Flinders Medical Centre adjacent to the Bedford Park campus. Renmark, while smaller, offers a close-knit community and exposure to rural health challenges. Consider your preference for urban versus regional living when choosing a delivery location. For a complete list of doctoral degrees in SA, use the HeadStart Academy search tool.
Ready to take the next step? Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered doctoral courses in nursing and midwifery across Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing/Midwifery) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Flinders University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.