Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) (CRICOS course code 065910B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This research-intensive program is designed for students aiming to make original contributions to mechanical and manufacturing engineering fields. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The program is offered at UniSA’s Mawson Lakes Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, a hub for engineering and technology education. With an indicative total fee of A$177,200, this PhD prepares graduates for academic, research, and senior industry roles. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) (CRICOS course code 065910B) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by University of South Australia (UniSA), a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00121B. This course falls under the field of education: 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0307 - Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology (030799 - n.e.c.). The program duration is 4 years and 1 month, equivalent to approximately 211 weeks. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no mandatory work component. As a doctoral-level program, it focuses on independent research leading to a thesis that advances knowledge in mechanical and manufacturing engineering. UniSA is among over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
At the Doctoral Degree level, students undertake a supervised research project that contributes original knowledge to their field. For this course, typical research areas include advanced manufacturing processes, mechanical design, materials engineering, robotics, and sustainable manufacturing systems. Students develop expertise in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly communication. While the exact syllabus depends on the chosen research topic, the program equips graduates to solve complex engineering problems and lead innovation. This aligns with the broader field of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, which encompasses design, production, and optimization of mechanical systems. Students are expected to produce a thesis of publishable quality and defend it in an oral examination. The University of South Australia provides access to state-of-the-art laboratories and industry partnerships to support research.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years and 1 month (211 weeks). It is a full-time research program conducted in English. As a single qualification, students will receive a Doctor of Philosophy upon completion. There are no foundation studies or VET components. The program does not include a mandatory work component, though students may engage in casual work as per their visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term). The University of South Australia offers a supportive research environment with access to supervisors, workshops, and academic resources. International students should plan for the full duration when applying for a student visa (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$177,200, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$177,200. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The university sets actual fees; always confirm directly with UniSA before applying. Costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For a single international student, living costs in Adelaide (South Australia) are estimated at around A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC is mandatory for international students; see our OSHC guide for details. For current fee information, visit the University of South Australia website.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a completed bachelor's degree with honours (at least class 2A) or a master's degree with a significant research component. For this course, applicants must demonstrate research capability in mechanical or manufacturing engineering. English language proficiency is required: generally IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0–6.5) or equivalent. Some applicants may need to complete a pre-sessional English course. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this degree; however, prospective students can explore relevant master's programs at UniSA that may lead to PhD entry. Always check the university's specific admission criteria, as they may vary by research area. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; contact UniSA for detailed requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. The program focuses entirely on research and thesis preparation. Optional industry internships or collaborations may be available through the university but are not formally part of the degree.
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 a capital city with a population of about 1.3 million, known for its affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The campus is well-served by public transport (bus and train), with connections to the city centre. Mawson Lakes itself is a technology precinct housing many engineering firms, providing networking opportunities. Over 40 CRICOS-registered providers operate in South Australia, offering diverse courses. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in eastern capitals: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $350–450, plus $80–120 for groceries and $30–50 for public transport.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UniSA, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and meeting health and character standards. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited during breaks. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). All student visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, safeguarding your tuition fees and study rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) at University of South Australia (UniSA): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree) and field (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering). Verify that UniSA (CRICOS 00121B) offers this course (065910B). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UniSA's entry requirements, including English language test (IELTS 6.5-7.0) and academic qualifications. Submit your application via the university's online portal, along with research proposal and supporting documents. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa with the Department of Home Affairs, providing evidence of OSHC, finances, and GTE. See our student visa guide for details.
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, offers a vibrant student lifestyle with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong engineering and defence industry, with opportunities for networking and future employment. UniSA's Mawson Lakes Campus is located in a technology park, close to companies like BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters. However, if you prefer a larger city with more diverse cultural options, Sydney or Melbourne might be better. Consider your research interests: UniSA has strong links with local manufacturing and defence sectors, which could enhance your PhD project. Talk to current students or supervisors to gauge fit. HeadStart Academy provides location data to help you decide.
Ready to begin your PhD journey? Explore University of South Australia's Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) on the official CRICOS register and apply today.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) 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.