Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) (CRICOS course code 072920G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This research-intensive program allows students to explore advanced topics in pharmacology, contributing to the field of natural and physical sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (072920G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, the program offers a pathway to careers in academia, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare research. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, UniSA stands out as a government university committed to quality. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring their rights are safeguarded. This page provides all key details: fees, duration, entry requirements, and how to apply for a student visa. HeadStart Academy is a free resource, not a migration agent, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) (CRICOS course code 072920G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) in the field of Natural and Physical Sciences, specifically Pharmacology (019907). It is offered by University of South Australia (UniSA) (CRICOS 00121B), a government-funded university. The program focuses on independent research, culminating in a thesis that contributes original knowledge to pharmacology. Students are typically expected to identify and investigate complex pharmacological problems, designing and conducting experiments under supervision. This course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. It is delivered in English and does not include a mandatory work component.
As a doctoral candidate in Pharmacology, you will engage in high-level research that advances understanding of drug actions, therapeutic applications, and disease mechanisms. The field encompasses topics such as drug metabolism, receptor pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical pharmacology. Graduates develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication. This level of study is designed to produce independent researchers capable of leading projects in academia, pharmaceutical industry, or government agencies. While specific research areas depend on your supervisor and project, typical outcomes include publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at conferences. The program aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 10), ensuring international recognition.
The program is delivered full-time over 4 years and 1 month, equivalent to 211 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a double degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to be on campus at UniSA's City East campus in Adelaide, though some research may be conducted off-site with approval. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment to meet visa conditions. The CRICOS duration is fixed, but actual completion may vary depending on research progress.
The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) is A$168,000 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but you should budget for additional costs such as laboratory materials, conference travel, and thesis production. The estimated total is A$168,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by University of South Australia (UniSA), subject to change. Important: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For current fees and a full fee schedule, always confirm directly with UniSA via their website at www.unisa.edu.au. OSHC costs vary by provider and duration; living costs in Adelaide are typically lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging A$150–A$250 for shared accommodation.
Applicants must satisfy the University of South Australia's academic and English language requirements. For this doctoral program, a prior qualification at Masters level or an Honours degree with a research component is typically required. A strong academic record in a relevant field such as pharmacology, pharmacy, or biomedical science is expected. English language proficiency: an overall IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Some candidates may need to provide a research proposal and secure a supervisor before applying. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level of study. Since HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent, we recommend checking the latest requirements on the UniSA website and contacting the admissions office for individual assessment.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a research doctorate, you may have opportunities to engage in teaching, research assistance, or industry placements, but these are not part of the assessed curriculum. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work beyond the program is separate from the course.
Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) is delivered at the University of South Australia's City East Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The city has a student population of approximately 50,000 international students, creating a vibrant multicultural environment. Adelaide is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other Australian capitals: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$150–A$250, groceries A$70–A$100, and public transport A$30–A$50. The City East Campus is accessible via the Adelaide Metro bus and tram network, with the city centre just a short walk away. For location-specific advice, see our study in South Australia guide.
To study this course on campus as an international student, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2025, the indicative living cost requirement is A$21,041 per year. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UniSA, you can lodge your visa application. For detailed assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only and does not offer migration advice.
Adelaide offers a conducive environment for research students, with a strong focus on health and science innovation. The city hosts several research institutes and hospitals that collaborate with universities. Cost of living is among the lowest of Australian state capitals, allowing you to stretch your scholarship or savings further. The climate is Mediterranean, and the city is known for its festivals and food culture. However, consider that Adelaide is smaller than Sydney or Melbourne, so networking opportunities may be more limited. For a PhD in pharmacology, UniSA has strong links with the pharmaceutical industry and health research networks. Before deciding, explore our list of Doctoral Degrees in South Australia and Natural and Physical Sciences courses in Adelaide to compare options.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the HeadStart Academy database or the official CRICOS register to verify that this course (072920G) and provider (00121B) are registered. Filter by Doctoral Degree and Natural and Physical Sciences in Adelaide to see similar options.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the University of South Australia website (www.unisa.edu.au) to review entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and a research proposal. Secure a supervisor before applying. Submit your application through the university's online portal before the deadline.
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 lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent or the Home Affairs website.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Check the latest entry requirements and apply directly through University of South Australia's website. For more courses like this, explore our full list of Doctoral Degrees in Australia.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology) 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.