Doctor of Philosophy (Education) (CRICOS course code 046396F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 4 years. This research-intensive program, classified under the field of Education (07), equips students to contribute original knowledge to the discipline. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, the course is fully registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). The University of Adelaide (CRICOS 00123M) is a public university with a strong research reputation. On this page, you'll find details on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, student visa conditions, and a step-by-step application guide.
Doctor of Philosophy (Education) (CRICOS course code 046396F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 4 years. At AQF Level 10, this research doctorate requires candidates to undertake a substantial original research project under supervision, culminating in a thesis. The field of education (broadly classified as 07 - Education, n.f.d.) allows for interdisciplinary approaches, covering pedagogy, policy, curriculum, and educational leadership. The University of Adelaide, established in 1874, is a member of the Group of Eight and consistently ranks among the world's top universities. Over 1,500 international students choose this institution each year. The program is delivered at the North Terrace campus in Adelaide's city centre.
As a doctoral candidate in Education, you will undertake independent research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge. The program typically involves coursework in research methods (if required), followed by a supervised research project leading to a thesis of up to 80,000 words. You will develop advanced skills in critical analysis, research design, data collection and analysis, and academic writing. The field of education encompasses diverse topics such as educational psychology, curriculum development, assessment, and inclusive education. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, educational research, policy development, and leadership roles in educational institutions. The University of Adelaide's School of Education has strong research clusters in areas like STEM education, language and literacy, and educational equity.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time research degree. The language of instruction is English, and the program is offered as a single qualification (no dual degree available). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to be on campus for supervision and access to facilities, though some research may be conducted off-site with approval. The standard enrollment is full-time, but part-time options may be considered for domestic students and some international students under specific visa conditions – check with the provider. No work component is integrated into the program.
The indicative total tuition fee for this course is A$178,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. This brings the estimated total to A$178,000. Please note: fees are subject to change and set by the institution. Additional costs you must budget for include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. OSHC for a single international student is approximately A$500–$600 per year. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly expenses are: rent A$200–$400 (shared or studio), groceries A$70–$120, transport A$30–$50. For the most current fee information, always visit the provider's website at adelaide.edu.au. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and does not guarantee amounts.
International applicants typically need to have completed a bachelor's degree with honours (at least IIA) or a master's degree that includes a research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of study. English language proficiency is demonstrated through IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0–6.5, depending on the program). Alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. There are no foundation or pathway options specific to this doctoral degree; prospective students are encouraged to contact The University of Adelaide's Graduate Centre for detailed entry requirements and supervision availability. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as supervision capacity and research alignment are critical. HeadStart Academy provides this guidance only – always confirm with the provider.
No work component is included in this course. The Doctor of Philosophy (Education) is a research degree focused entirely on independent study and thesis preparation. While there is no mandatory work placement, students may seek casual employment within the 48-hour-per-fortnight work rights available on a Student visa (Subclass 500) during term time, and unlimited during scheduled breaks. The university's career service and research scholarships may provide teaching or research assistant opportunities.
The course is delivered at The University of Adelaide's North Terrace campus, located on North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5005. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, with a population of approximately 1.3 million, including over 40,000 international students across multiple universities. The city offers a affordable cost of living, a vibrant arts and food scene, and a Mediterranean climate. Public transport includes buses, trams, and trains, with free city tram travel. The campus is within walking distance of accommodation, shops, and the Adelaide Botanic Garden. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in Adelaide offering education courses. Students benefit from ESOS Act protections, including the Tuition Protection Service.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: proof of enrolment (CoE), sufficient English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, OSHC valid for the duration of the visa, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2024, the 48-hour-per-fortnight work restriction applies during study periods, with unlimited work during scheduled holidays. Dependants may also work up to 48 hours per fortnight. Upon course completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. It is essential to comply with visa conditions – breach can lead to cancellation. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personal circumstances.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy (Education) at The University of Adelaide involves three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Education), and location (Adelaide) to confirm your choice. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements on the University of Adelaide website, prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and English test results, and submit an online application by the deadline. You may also need to find a supervisor. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once the university issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, attaching all required documents including OSHC evidence and financial statements.
Adelaide offers a high quality of life for international students with lower living costs compared to Sydney and Melbourne. The city is compact, making it easy to navigate public transport. The University of Adelaide's North Terrace campus is centrally located. Consider your research interests: does the School of Education have supervisors in your area? Adelaide has a growing student community, with many Asian and European students. The cost of living is moderate: weekly rent can range from $200 to $400, groceries $80 to $150, and transport $30 to $50. OSHC adds about $500–$600 per year. The city has a dry climate but vibrant festivals. Many doctoral students find part-time work in tutoring or hospitality. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Adelaide hosts a strong cohort of international students.
Ready to begin your Doctor of Philosophy (Education)? Start your application at The University of Adelaide today – explore supervision opportunities and prepare your research proposal.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Education) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide). 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.