Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) (CRICOS course code 079308E) 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 make a significant original contribution to knowledge in health sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Adelaide, home to UniSA's City East Campus, offers a vibrant research environment with access to world-class health facilities. Whether you aim to advance clinical practice, health policy, or biomedical research, this PhD provides a pathway to leadership in health academia or industry. HeadStart Academy presents this page as a free resource, sourcing data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you compare options. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) (CRICOS course code 079308E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) offered by University of South Australia (UniSA), a public government university established in 1991. The course is in the field of Health (Other Health, n.e.c.) and is delivered entirely in English over 4 years and 1 month (211 weeks). This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. The indicative tuition fee is A$168,000, with no separate non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$168,000. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. The course is delivered at UniSA's City East Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UniSA must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student protections. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this PhD is one of many doctoral programs available to international students.
Doctoral degrees at AQF Level 10 require students to conduct independent research resulting in a thesis that makes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge. In the field of Health Sciences, this typically involves designing and executing a research project under the supervision of academic experts. Areas of focus may include public health, allied health, clinical sciences, health services research, or biomedical science. Students develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. While specific syllabi vary by institution and supervisor, all PhDs at CRICOS-registered providers must meet national standards for research training. Graduates emerge prepared for careers in academia, research institutes, healthcare leadership, or policy development. This course offers a research-only pathway, with no mandatory coursework or work component.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) has a duration of 4 years 1 month (211 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. This is the typical full-time equivalent for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual degree). No foundation studies are required. Students must maintain satisfactory progress to extend their visa if needed. The duration may vary depending on individual research progress, but the CRICOS-listed duration sets the expected time for visa purposes. UniSA may offer part-time options under specific circumstances, but international students are generally required to study full-time. The campus location is City East Campus in Adelaide, providing access to dedicated research facilities and libraries.
The indicative total fee for this course is A$168,000, comprising tuition of A$168,000 and no separate non-tuition fees. This amount is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and is subject to change by University of South Australia (UniSA). Always confirm the latest fees directly with UniSA before applying. This total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students. Estimated OSHC costs for a single student are approximately A$600–$700 per year, depending on the provider. Living costs in Adelaide average around A$1,200–$1,500 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The Student visa application charge is currently A$710 (as of 2024, subject to change). Scholarships may be available; check UniSA's website for research funding opportunities. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy provides this data for comparison but recommends verifying all figures with the institution.
Entry into a Doctoral Degree typically requires a relevant Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a Master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component. For this course, University of South Australia (UniSA) expects applicants to have a strong academic background in health sciences or a related discipline. The English language requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), as per CRICOS guidelines. Some supervisors may require higher scores. No foundation or pathway programs are listed for this course; however, UniSA offers pre-Masters and graduate certificates that can strengthen an application. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity. For specific entry criteria, including prior research experience and publications, consult UniSA's website or contact the Graduate Research School.
No work component is included in this course. The Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) is a research-only degree with no mandatory internship, practicum, or work placement. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with your studies. Some PhD candidates may secure teaching or research assistant roles within the university, but these are not part of the course requirements. Always check visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
This course is delivered at University of South Australia, City East Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide, the state capital, has a population of about 1.4 million and is home to over 40,000 international students. The city offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent A$200–$350 for shared accommodation. Public transport includes buses, trains, and trams, with a student concession fare. Adelaide is known for its vibrant arts scene and festivals. The City East Campus is located near the Adelaide CBD, close to health precincts and research centres. South Australia has 1 CRICOS-registered university (University of Adelaide also offers PhDs), but UniSA is one of the largest providers of health research degrees in the state. Studying in Adelaide offers a focused, affordable environment for doctoral research.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from University of South Australia (UniSA); Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay; evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel; and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and comply with ESOS Act protections. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this CRICOS-registered course: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy’s free database to compare doctoral degrees in health sciences. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Health), and location (South Australia). 2) Apply directly to University of South Australia: Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, and English test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0). Submit your application through UniSA’s online portal before the deadline. Note that PhD applications often require supervisor agreement. 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 via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Good luck!
Adelaide is a strong choice for doctoral studies in health sciences. It offers affordable living, a collaborative research community, and access to major health networks such as the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI). The city’s smaller size means less congestion and more opportunity for networking. However, consider that research infrastructure may be concentrated in eastern states for some specialisations. Adelaide has over 40,000 international students, and its public transport system (Metro) provides easy access to City East Campus. Typical living costs: rent A$200–$350/week, groceries A$60–$100/week, transport A$30–$50/week on student pass. PhD students can apply for scholarships like the Research Training Program (RTP) to reduce fees. Weigh these factors against your personal and professional goals before deciding.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) 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.