Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) University of South Australia

Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) — University of South Australia (UniSA)

Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) (CRICOS course code 065902B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This page provides indicative fees, delivery locations, entry requirements, and student visa guidance for international students considering this advanced research program. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and protection under the ESOS Act. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.

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Course overview

Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) (CRICOS course code 065902B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This course is classified under field of education 010999 (Biological Sciences, n.e.c.) at AQF Level 10. It is a research-intensive program designed to produce graduates with advanced skills in bioinformatics, including computational analysis of biological data. As a doctoral candidate, you will undertake independent research leading to a thesis that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. University of South Australia (UniSA) is a government-owned university with CRICOS provider code 00121B, committed to providing high-quality education to international students.

What you'll study

The Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) focuses on the intersection of biology, computer science, and information technology. Students typically develop expertise in data mining, machine learning, genomic data analysis, and systems biology. The program equips graduates with the ability to design and implement computational methods for analyzing complex biological datasets. While the specific research topic is determined by the candidate and supervisor, the broader field of 010999 Biological Sciences encompasses a wide range of sub-disciplines. This course is ideal for those seeking careers in research, academia, or the biotechnology industry. Australia’s strong research sector offers numerous opportunities for PhD graduates.

Duration and study mode

The CRICOS register lists the duration of this course as 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This reflects the expected full-time study period for international students. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and no foundation studies are required for entry (though applicants must meet academic prerequisites). The course does not include a VET national code as it is a higher education doctoral program. Study mode is typically on-campus with research supervision, though some components may be flexible.

Fees (indicative — set by University of South Australia (UniSA))

Tuition fees for this course are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The indicative tuition fee is A$177,200. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but students should budget for other costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Adelaide are around A$1,500–A$2,200 per month (including rent, groceries, and transport). These figures are a guide only. Always confirm current fees directly with University of South Australia (UniSA) at www.unisa.edu.au, as fees are subject to change.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

Entry requirements for this doctoral degree typically include a relevant honours degree or master’s degree with a research component. English language proficiency is required, with an indicative IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (no band less than 6.0–6.5, depending on provider policy). Additional requirements such as a research proposal and supervisor availability may apply. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this level; however, applicants who do not meet the academic criteria may consider a master’s by research or coursework as a stepping stone. For precise requirements, consult the University of South Australia (UniSA) website.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. However, PhD students may engage in casual employment or teaching assistance opportunities at the university, subject to visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at the University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, located in Mawson Lakes, a northern suburb of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is known for its affordable cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with a student-friendly environment. The campus is accessible by public transport, including bus and train services, and is close to the Adelaide CBD. Mawson Lakes has a growing student population and offers modern research facilities.

Student visa

International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and meeting English language standards. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.

Is Adelaide right for your PhD?

Adelaide is a compact city with a vibrant research community and lower living costs than Australia’s eastern capitals. Average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–A$450, and public transport is affordable with student concessions. As of April 2026, South Australia has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city is home to several universities and research institutes, making it a solid choice for doctoral studies. Consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and proximity to your research network when deciding.

How to apply

Applying for Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) at University of South Australia (UniSA) involves three steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (doctoral), field (biological sciences), and location (South Australia). 2. **Apply directly to University of South Australia (UniSA)** — meet entry requirements including English test scores and submit a research proposal. Check application deadlines and required documents on the uni's website. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — once accepted, the university issues a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Prepare GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC.

Ready to start your PhD journey? Use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral courses and apply directly to CRICOS-registered providers.

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Source-backed course facts

Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics)
CRICOS course code
065902B
Provider
University of South Australia (UniSA) (00121B)
Course level
Doctoral Degree
Field of education
01 - Natural and Physical Sciences
Duration
211 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$177,200
Estimated total (indicative)
A$177,200
Delivery locations
Mawson Lakes
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative total fee is A$177,200 for the full duration of 4 years 1 month. This is sourced from the CRICOS register and is subject to change. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but additional costs include OSHC (approx. A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (around A$1,500–A$2,200 per month), and visa application charges. Always confirm current fees with the university.
The duration is 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. This is the standard full-time duration for international students. Actual completion time may vary depending on research progress and supervisor requirements.
Typical entry requires a relevant honours degree or master’s degree with a research component. English proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall. You also need a viable research proposal and an available supervisor. Some applicants may be offered conditional entry. Check University of South Australia’s website for exact criteria.
The course is delivered at the Mawson Lakes Campus of University of South Australia, located in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. This is a northern suburb of Adelaide, about 20 minutes from the city by train. The campus has modern research labs and library facilities.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$177,200 for Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics) (tuition A$177,200). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with University of South Australia (UniSA) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 065902B, offered by University of South Australia (UniSA) (provider code 00121B). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.