Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics)

Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) (CRICOS 070418E)

Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) (CRICOS course code 070418E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This AQF Level 10 course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0915 Language and Literature) and is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in linguistics, language acquisition, sociolinguistics, or related areas. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider ID 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative total fee of A$153,200, this program offers a rigorous research environment at UniSA's Magill Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and financial safeguards. Whether you aim for an academic career or a leadership role in language policy, this PhD equips you with critical thinking and research expertise. HeadStart Academy provides free, up-to-date information from the official CRICOS register to help you make an informed choice.

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Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) (CRICOS course code 070418E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). UniSA is a public university with CRICOS provider code 00121B and is listed as a Government institution. This course is classified under the field of education 091599 - Language and Literature, n.e.c., within the broader Society and Culture stream. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment, meaning students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. The program is research-intensive, culminating in a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. UniSA's Magill Campus in Adelaide provides access to libraries, labs, and academic support. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.

What You'll Study

This course is at the highest level of academic research, focusing on Languages and Linguistics. Students typically engage in advanced study of language structure, language change, language acquisition, and the social contexts of language use. The program is designed to develop independent researchers who can critically analyse linguistic phenomena and contribute new knowledge to the field. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates of doctoral programs in this field often emerge with expertise in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly communication. The field of education (091599) encompasses a broad range of language and literature topics not elsewhere classified, allowing for interdisciplinary approaches. Students are expected to work closely with supervisors to refine their research proposal and conduct original research over the duration of the course. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the program adheres to Australian Qualifications Framework standards, ensuring quality and recognition worldwide.

Duration and Study Mode

The Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) is offered over 4 years 1 month, equivalent to 211 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual award). It is a full-time research program; part-time options may be available but should be confirmed directly with University of South Australia. As a doctoral degree, the structure involves supervised research, periodic progress reviews, and submission of a thesis. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and meet course requirements. The duration listed is the standard CRICOS duration; actual completion may vary depending on research progress. UniSA provides resources such as research training programs and access to academic databases. HeadStart Academy recommends verifying current course structure with the provider, as CRICOS data reflects maximum duration.

Fees (Indicative)

Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: Tuition fee: A$153,200; Non-tuition fee: A$0; Estimated total cost: A$153,200. These fees are set by University of South Australia (UniSA) and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$2,000 per year depending on coverage. Additionally, living costs in Adelaide (including rent, groceries, and transport) are estimated at around A$21,000 to A$25,000 per year. The visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm the latest fees with UniSA before applying. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only; fees should be verified directly with the institution.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy program typically requires a master's degree or equivalent research experience. For this specific course, University of South Australia likely expects a bachelor's degree with honours or a research master's degree in a related field. English language proficiency is required; the indicative IELTS score range is 6.5 to 7.0 overall (no band below 6.0-6.5). Other factors such as a research proposal, supervisor availability, and academic references are considered. Foundation studies are not applicable for doctoral level. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; prospective students should contact UniSA for precise entry requirements. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian standards for international student admissions.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) is a research-only degree, typically involving independent study and thesis preparation. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights may be granted as soon as the visa is approved. Students should not rely on work to cover tuition or living costs but can use it for supplementary income. Always check current Department of Home Affairs regulations.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at the University of South Australia, Magill Campus, located in the suburb of Magill, Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, known for its affordable living costs and vibrant student community. The city is home to over 30,000 international students and hosts three major universities. Magill Campus is approximately 8 km from Adelaide's city centre, accessible by public bus services and train. The campus offers research facilities, a library, and student support services. Adelaide's median weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300-A$400, and public transport is well-connected. For students considering a move to South Australia, the state offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with an estimated weekly budget of A$400-A$600 for living expenses (excluding tuition).

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: valid CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and required English proficiency. Visa holders must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to changes by Department of Home Affairs). OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory throughout the visa stay. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (non-refundable, subject to change). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual circumstances. ESOS Act protections ensure course quality and financial safeguards for international students.

How to Apply

Applying for this course at University of South Australia involves three key steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree) and field (Language and Literature) to find courses like Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics). Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (00121B) on the official register. 2. Apply directly to University of South Australia: Check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, arrange English language test (IELTS), and submit the application through UniSA's online portal. Note application deadlines, as they vary by intake. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE for this course. Use the CoE to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE statement, OSHC evidence, and financial documents.

Is South Australia Right for You?

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, offers a unique study environment for PhD students. It is known for its affordability, with living costs significantly lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong research culture, with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally and thousands of courses. Adelaide is home to many international students, creating a diverse community. Public transport is efficient, and the city is compact, making it easy to access campuses. For a research-focused degree like this, South Australia provides a quieter setting conducive to study. However, consider the state's job market if you plan to work part-time. HeadStart Academy's data shows that South Australia has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of choices. Ultimately, the decision should align with your academic interests and lifestyle preferences.

Ready to take the next step? Use HeadStart Academy's free CRICOS search tool to find more PhD courses in Australia or compare providers in South Australia.

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Source-backed course facts

Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) 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 (Languages and Linguistics)
CRICOS course code
070418E
Provider
University of South Australia (UniSA) (00121B)
Course level
Doctoral Degree
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
211 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$153,200
Estimated total (indicative)
A$153,200
Delivery locations
MAGILL
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 for this course is A$153,200, as per the CRICOS register (April 2026). This includes tuition fees only; non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. However, additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated around A$21,000-A$25,000 per year in Adelaide), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. Fees are set by UniSA and subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 4 years 1 month (211 weeks). This is the standard maximum duration for a full-time doctoral degree. Actual completion time may vary depending on research progress and individual circumstances. Students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a related field, or a research master's degree. English proficiency is required with an indicative IELTS overall score of 6.5-7.0 (no band below 6.0-6.5). A research proposal and supervisor agreement are also likely needed. Foundation studies do not apply at this level. Exact requirements should be confirmed directly with University of South Australia.
This course is delivered at the University of South Australia's Magill Campus in Magill, Adelaide, South Australia. The campus is about 8 km from the city centre and well-served by public transport. Adelaide is the state capital, known for its affordable living costs and strong student community.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$153,200 for Doctor of Philosophy (Languages and Linguistics) (tuition A$153,200). 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 070418E, offered by University of South Australia (UniSA) (provider code 00121B). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.