Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy) (CRICOS course code 048570C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This research-intensive program, classified under AQF Level 10, is designed for students aiming to make a significant contribution to the field of pharmacy through original research. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider: UniSA, CRICOS 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is home to over 40,000 international students and offers a vibrant, affordable lifestyle. With a cost of living typically lower than Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide provides a conducive environment for doctoral study. The University of South Australia is a government-owned institution with a strong research profile, particularly in health sciences. This doctoral program spans at least 211 weeks of full-time study, culminating in a thesis. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and can access student visa pathways (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy) (CRICOS course code 048570C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This AQF Level 10 qualification falls under the field of education: 06 Health (0605 Pharmacy, 060501 Pharmacy). As a research doctorate, it requires students to undertake a substantial research project under supervision, producing a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The program is delivered at UniSA's City East Campus in Adelaide, a major urban centre with a thriving student community. This course is exclusively for international students seeking a high-level research degree in pharmacy. The CRICOS register confirms that this course has no dual qualification, no foundation studies component, and no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. For current fee details and precise start dates, always refer to the provider's website (www.unisa.edu.au).
At the doctoral level in pharmacy, you will engage in advanced research training, developing skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and critical evaluation of pharmaceutical sciences. Typical areas of investigation include drug discovery, pharmacokinetics, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical formulation, and pharmacy practice. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, pharmaceutical industry, regulatory bodies, or specialised clinical roles. While the specific research topic is determined through a supervisory arrangement, the program emphasises independent inquiry and the generation of new knowledge in the field of pharmacy. This aligns with the AQF Level 10 descriptor, which requires the demonstration of a substantial contribution to knowledge. Students are expected to have a strong background in pharmacy or a related discipline, as outlined in the entry requirements.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy) has a duration of 4 years 1 month, equating to approximately 211 weeks on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research program with no part-time option for international students on a student visa. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award. There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to be present at the University of South Australia's City East Campus for supervision and access to research facilities, though fieldwork or external placements may be part of the research project. The program is structured around a thesis submission and oral examination (viva voce). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and set by the University of South Australia (UniSA). According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative total tuition fee is A$168,000 for the full program. There are no non-tuition fees listed (A$0), making the estimated total A$168,000. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$1,000 per year depending on coverage level. Living costs in Adelaide are estimated at around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm the most current fees directly with the University of South Australia at www.unisa.edu.au before applying.
International applicants must meet the University of South Australia's entry requirements for doctoral study. Typically, this includes a completed bachelor's degree with honours (at least AQF Level 8) or a master's degree in a relevant field, with a significant research component. A strong academic record is expected. English language proficiency: an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0–6.5) is commonly required, though alternative tests such as TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Some faculties may require higher scores. There is no foundation studies component for this doctoral program, but applicants who do not meet the English requirement may consider pathway programs or intensive English courses offered by the institution. For precise entry criteria, including research proposal requirements and supervisory availability, contact the University of South Australia directly.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a research degree focused solely on academic research and thesis preparation. However, international students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable professional experience while studying. The University of South Australia may offer optional internships or professional development opportunities, but these are not part of the core curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy).
This course is delivered at the University of South Australia's City East Campus, located in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of approximately 1.3 million. It is home to more than 40,000 international students and five universities (including CRICOS-registered providers). The city offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around A$300–A$400, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. The City East Campus is well-connected by Adelaide's tram, bus, and train networks. For exact location details and campus facilities, visit the provider's website.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. The visa allows work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. The Department of Home Affairs sets a minimum living cost of A$21,041 per year (from October 2024). Visa processing times vary; apply well in advance. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy) at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Pharmacy), and location (South Australia) using HeadStart Academy's directory. Confirm that the course (048570C) and provider (00121B) are registered. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the University of South Australia's website (www.unisa.edu.au) to review the application process, academic requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and deadlines for research degree applications. Prepare a research proposal and secure a supervisor. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: After acceptance, the university issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a student visa via ImmiAccount. Ensure you meet GTE, financial, and OSHC requirements.
Adelaide is a compact, affordable city with a strong student community. It hosts over 40,000 international students and five universities, including CRICOS-registered institutions. Living costs are among the lowest of Australia's major cities, with weekly rent averaging A$300–A$400. The city's public transport is student-friendly and the climate is Mediterranean. For a doctoral student in pharmacy, Adelaide offers research facilities and opportunities to collaborate with local health networks. However, if you prefer a larger city with more industry connections in pharmaceutical research, you might also consider Sydney or Melbourne. Ultimately, the choice depends on your research interests, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, which lists 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commission or referral fees. Every CRICOS-registered institution must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring international students have legal protections including tuition fee refunds and course quality guarantees. For visa and migration advice, always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacy) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.