Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) (CRICOS course code 094498B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 4 years. This course is designed for students who want to make a significant contribution to public health research, policy, and practice. As a PhD candidate, you will engage in original research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis that advances knowledge in the field. The University of Adelaide, a prestigious Group of Eight university, offers world-class facilities and a vibrant research community. Adelaide itself is a safe, affordable city with a strong student population and excellent quality of life. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) (CRICOS course code 094498B) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) (CRICOS 00123M) over 4 years (208 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 060300 - Nursing, n.f.d., part of the broader Health (06) discipline. This research-intensive program equips graduates with advanced skills in critical analysis, research methodology, and scholarly communication. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government health departments, and international organisations. The University of Adelaide is a government-owned institution and a member of Australia's prestigious Group of Eight, known for its research excellence. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it meets stringent Australian standards for international student education.
As a Doctoral Degree candidate in Public Health, you will undertake a supervised research project that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The program focuses on developing advanced research skills, including study design, data collection and analysis, and scholarly writing. While specific topics vary by supervisor, common areas include epidemiology, biostatistics, health promotion, health systems, and global health. You will also complete coursework in research ethics and communication. The University of Adelaide has strong research strengths in public health, with active collaborations with South Australian health networks. By the end of the program, you will have produced a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words and defended it in an oral examination. This level of study is ideal for those who wish to lead research teams, influence health policy, or teach at university level.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) is a full-time program with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – it does not include dual awards or foundation studies. Candidates must maintain satisfactory progress and submit their thesis within the maximum timeframe set by the University. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are generally required to study full-time. The University of Adelaide offers a range of resources to support research students, including dedicated workspaces, library access, and research training programs.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$224,000 for the full program (4 years). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total cost is A$224,000. Please note: these fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne; the Department of Home Affairs recommends approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student (excluding tuition). The University of Adelaide may also charge an annual tuition fee increase of up to 5% – always check the provider's website for the most current fees. Visit the University of Adelaide's fees page for accurate and up-to-date information.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.0–6.5) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: a Master's degree in a relevant field with a research component, or a Bachelor's degree with honours (Class IIA or above). Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission – the University selects candidates based on research proposal quality, supervisor availability, and academic background. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; candidates must hold a recognised prior qualification. The University of Adelaide may also require a research proposal and an interview. For exact entry requirements, consult the University's official website or contact their admissions office.
This course has no mandatory work component. PhD candidates are expected to focus on their research full-time. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled university holidays. Many PhD students supplement their income through tutoring, research assistance, or external grants. The University of Adelaide offers scholarships and stipends that may reduce the need for part-time work. Ensure you comply with your visa conditions and check current work rights on the Department of Home Affairs website.
This course is delivered at The University of Adelaide, North Terrace campus, located in the heart of Adelaide's city centre, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and home to over 1.3 million people. The city has a vibrant student population, with more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,000 courses. The North Terrace campus is easily accessible by public transport, including buses, trams, and trains. The Adelaide Metro provides affordable travel; a student concession fare is available. Living costs in Adelaide are approximately A$350–A$500 per week for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–A$100 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for transport. Adelaide is known for its festivals, food scene, and proximity to world-famous wine regions like the Barossa Valley.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Adelaide, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (always check current policy as it may change). The ESOS Act and the National Code provide consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds and grievance processes. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Adelaide offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. For PhD students, Adelaide provides a focused, affordable environment with fewer distractions than larger cities. The University of Adelaide's North Terrace campus is adjacent to the State Library of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, and the Art Gallery of South Australia – all valuable resources for research. The city has a strong health research sector, including the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, offering potential collaboration and networking opportunities. Public transport is reliable, and the Adelaide Airport connects the city to major Asian and domestic hubs. However, Adelaide has a smaller job market than Sydney or Melbourne for part-time work – though university scholarships often reduce the need for external income. Consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and career opportunities when choosing your study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Public Health), and location (Adelaide). Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered – The University of Adelaide (CRICOS 00123M) is.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of Adelaide's website to review specific entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and any other required documents. Pay attention to application deadlines – PhD intakes are usually flexible, but check with the university.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the university accepts your application, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, meet the GTE requirement, and demonstrate financial capacity. Visa processing times vary – apply early.
All institutions and courses on HeadStart Academy are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) as at 1 April 2026. This means they meet strict Australian Government standards for international student education. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds for courses that are not delivered, access to a complaints and appeals process, and information on student rights. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge referral fees or commissions. Data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register to ensure accuracy. Always verify current registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
Ready to take the next step? Follow our 3-step application guide above and start your PhD journey at the University of Adelaide.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide). 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.