Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) (CRICOS course code 072923E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This highly respected research degree is classified under the field of Public Health (0613) and is designed for students who wish to contribute original knowledge to the discipline. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government – data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). With over 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this PhD program at UniSA represents a pathway to advanced research careers in public health. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring high-quality education and consumer rights. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and step-by-step guidance on applying for a Student visa (Subclass 500).
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Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) (CRICOS course code 072923E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This AQF Level 10 qualification focuses on advanced research in public health, allowing candidates to explore areas such as epidemiology, health promotion, health policy, and biostatistics. The course is CRICOS-registered under provider University of South Australia (UniSA) (CRICOS 00121B), a government-owned university based in Adelaide, South Australia. As a research degree, it requires candidates to complete a thesis that makes a significant contribution to the field. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification – there is no dual or foundation component. Field of education: 061399 Public Health, n.e.c. (06 Health). Australian public health research is globally recognised, and graduates often pursue careers in academia, government health departments, non-profits, and international organisations.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) is a research-intensive degree where students design, conduct, and report on a substantial piece of original research under the supervision of experienced academics. While specific research topics vary, typical areas of investigation include disease prevention, health system efficiency, Indigenous health, environmental health, and health equity. Candidates develop advanced skills in research methodology, statistical analysis, critical thinking, and academic writing. The program culminates in a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. As a public health PhD, graduates are equipped to address complex health challenges both in Australia and globally. The University of South Australia has strong research groups in public health, with access to state-of-the-art facilities at the City East Campus. Students are expected to attend seminars, present at conferences, and publish their findings. This course is ideal for those seeking to become leaders in public health research and policy.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) has a standard duration of 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time research degree; no part-time option is available for international students due to student visa requirements. The language of instruction is English throughout the program. This is a single qualification – no dual or joint degree opportunities are listed on the CRICOS register. International students must maintain full-time enrolment and adhere to the course progression requirements. The 211-week duration includes both coursework components (if any) and the thesis period. Students are expected to work on campus or remotely in collaboration with their supervisors. The University of South Australia may offer extensions in exceptional circumstances, but the standard CRICOS duration is a key reference for visa purposes.
Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider before applying. For the Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) at University of South Australia (UniSA), the indicative total tuition fee is A$168,000. Non-tuition fees (such as materials or amenities) are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, meaning no mandatory additional fees. The estimated total cost is therefore A$168,000. Please note: this amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$600–800 per year, and Adelaide's living costs (including rent, groceries, transport) are around A$500–600 per week for a single person. The visa application fee for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is A$710 (as of 2025). Always refer to the University of South Australia's official website at www.unisa.edu.au for the most current fee schedule.
Entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) are set by University of South Australia (UniSA) and typically include a completed master's degree (or equivalent research experience) in a relevant discipline such as public health, health sciences, or medicine. International students whose first language is not English must meet the English language requirement of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band less than 6.5 (or equivalent). Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal and attend an interview. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course; however, applicants who do not meet the academic criteria may consider a research master's or graduate diploma before applying. It is strongly recommended that you check the precise requirements with the University of South Australia. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa-related questions, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. The Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) is a research degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation. However, students may choose to engage in casual or part-time work outside of their studies, subject to the work rights granted by their Student visa (Subclass 500). Those rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with course progression. Note that the course itself does not arrange or require employment.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) is delivered at the University of South Australia, City East Campus, located in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, a city known for its affordability, vibrant cultural scene, and high quality of life. According to the CRICOS register, this is the only delivery location for this course code. Adelaide has a student population of over 60,000 international students, with more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering public health courses. The City East Campus is situated in the central business district, close to public transport (buses, trams, trains), and within walking distance of Adelaide's main retail and dining precincts. Weekly rent for a single room in a shared apartment is approximately A$200–300, and a monthly public transport pass costs around A$100. The university provides research facilities, libraries, and student support services on campus. Proximity to major hospitals and health research institutes also benefits public health PhD candidates.
International students who wish to study the Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from University of South Australia (UniSA), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Additionally, student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session (study period), and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. It is important to note that work rights are tied to the visa and subject to change. The Department of Home Affairs assesses all applications. As HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent, we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for individual visa assistance. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and Australian Government standards.
Follow these steps to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Public Health), and location (Adelaide). Confirm that the course code 072923E and provider CRICOS 00121B meet your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit the University of South Australia website (www.unisa.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test standards (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and referee reports. Submit an online application through the university's admissions portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – If your application is successful, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, proof of funds, and a valid passport. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to guide you, but for visa specifics, always consult official sources.
Adelaide is a medium-sized capital city with a relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. It is home to over 60,000 international students and hosts several world-class universities, including the University of South Australia. For a public health PhD, Adelaide offers proximity to health precincts like the Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences building and the Royal Adelaide Hospital. The city has a strong public transport network, making the City East Campus easily accessible. Typical weekly living costs for a single student: rent (shared) A$200–300, groceries A$80–120, transport A$40–60. With indicative tuition of A$168,000 for the full PhD, total costs including living expenses for 4+ years are significant, but Adelaide's affordability helps manage budgets. The city also has a vibrant festival culture and beautiful natural surroundings. Consider your research fit with UniSA's supervision areas before committing.
Ready to apply? Visit the University of South Australia website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar CRICOS-registered courses.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) 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.