Doctor of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) (CRICOS course code 073042G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This program is designed for students who wish to undertake advanced research in civil engineering, contributing original knowledge to the field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00121B), it meets all Australian Government standards for international students. University of South Australia is a public university known for its strong industry connections and research output. Located in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, the university offers a supportive environment for doctoral candidates. The course falls under the field of Civil Engineering (Field of Education 030999) and is delivered at the Mawson Lakes Campus.
Doctor of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) (CRICOS course code 073042G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This program is designed for students who wish to undertake advanced research in civil engineering, contributing original knowledge to the field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00121B), it meets all Australian Government standards for international students. University of South Australia is a public university known for its strong industry connections and research output. Located in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, the university offers a supportive environment for doctoral candidates. The course falls under the field of Civil Engineering (Field of Education 030999) and is delivered at the Mawson Lakes Campus.
This course falls under the field of Civil Engineering (Field of Education 030999). At the doctoral level, students are expected to conduct independent research leading to a thesis that makes a significant contribution to the discipline. Typical areas of investigation include structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, water resources, and construction materials. Students work closely with a supervisory team and may have opportunities to publish their findings in academic journals. The program emphasises critical analysis, research methodology, and advanced problem-solving skills. The curriculum is shaped by the candidate's research proposal and is tailored to their specific area of investigation.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) is structured for full-time study over 4 years and 1 month (approximately 211 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Students are expected to progress through a series of milestones, including a confirmation of candidature and a final thesis examination. The duration is indicative and actual completion may vary based on research progress and supervisory arrangements.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$177,200 for the full program. There are no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, so the estimated total is A$177,200. Please note that these figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Fees are set by University of South Australia (UniSA) and may change—always confirm the current fees on the provider's website. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and fees vary widely. This course is covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections.
Applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering or science discipline. An IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) is commonly required, though some programs may ask for a higher score. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. For exact entry criteria and any pathway options, consult University of South Australia's website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; always verify with the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may engage in casual work or internships outside of their study hours, subject to visa conditions. Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to balance work and study commitments to ensure timely completion of the doctoral program.
The course is delivered at the University of South Australia's Mawson Lakes Campus in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. Adelaide is known for its affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around $300–$450 for a shared apartment, groceries about $80–$150, and public transport around $50–$70. Mawson Lakes is a northern suburb with good transport links to Adelaide city centre via train and bus. The campus is purpose-built for engineering and IT disciplines, housing modern laboratories and research facilities. South Australia has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a significant study destination.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, holding valid OSHC, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as a consumer. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by doctoral level and civil engineering. University of South Australia is one of 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (as of April 2026).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check entry requirements, prepare a research proposal, submit academic transcripts and English test scores, and meet application deadlines. You may need to identify a potential supervisor who aligns with your research interests.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – If accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you have adequate OSHC cover and evidence of financial capacity.
South Australia offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living, vibrant cultural scene, and strong research community. Adelaide is home to three major universities and over 30 CRICOS-registered providers. The city has a student population of over 50,000 international students. Public transport is accessible, and the climate is Mediterranean. However, consider the distance from other Australian capitals and the availability of industry placements in your specific research area. The Mawson Lakes campus is well-connected, and the university provides dedicated support for research students.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Civil 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.