Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work) (CRICOS course code 106263G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Flinders University over 4 years. This course is designed for international students seeking advanced research skills and expertise in social work, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia, policy, and practice. As a CRICOS-registered course under provider code 00114A, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,556 providers, and this PhD at Flinders University is a prestigious option for those aiming to contribute to society through research.
Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work) (CRICOS course code 106263G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Flinders University over 4 years (208 weeks) at its Bedford Park campus in Adelaide, South Australia. This course falls under the field of education 090501 - Social Work (Society and Culture). As a CRICOS-registered course, it provides international students with access to Australia's high-quality education system, protected by the ESOS Act. Flinders University is a government-funded institution with a strong research reputation. The course does not include a mandatory work component and is taught entirely in English. Indicative tuition fees are A$141,100, with non-tuition fees of A$3,065, totalling an estimated A$144,165. All fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
Doctoral degrees focus on independent research and the creation of new knowledge. In the field of Social Work, this typically involves developing a thesis that addresses a significant social issue, such as child protection, mental health, community development, or Indigenous welfare. Graduates learn advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and ethical practice. They contribute to policy and practice through evidence-based findings. Flinders University's program is delivered by expert supervisors and includes coursework components to support research skills. While specific syllabi vary by candidate, the degree requires a substantial original contribution to the field, culminating in a thesis examined by internal and external academics.
The course duration is 4 years (208 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is offered on a full-time basis only — part-time study is generally not available to international students due to visa conditions. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. No foundation studies are included; applicants must meet entry requirements directly. The course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education doctoral program.
Tuition fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). For Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work), the total tuition is A$141,100 over 4 years. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, field trips) are estimated at A$3,065, bringing the estimated total to A$144,165. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. Indicative living costs in Adelaide are around A$450–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC costs approximately A$600–A$800 per year for a single student. Always check the current fees on the Flinders University website before applying.
Entry requirements for a Doctoral Degree typically include a bachelor's degree with honours (Class 2A or above) or a master's degree with a research component. Applicants must demonstrate research capability through prior work or a proposal. For international students, English language proficiency is required — IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Flinders University may also accept PTE, Cambridge, or TOEFL. Each application is assessed individually. There are no foundation or pathway options specific to this course; refer to the provider for any preparatory programs. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component — this course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary work or research activities that are part of the course but not structured work experience. All work-related activities must comply with visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Flinders University's Bedford Park campus, located in Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant city with a student population of over 120,000 across multiple institutions. There are more than 50 registered providers in South Australia offering over 1,500 courses. Public transport to Bedford Park includes buses and the Flinders railway station. Typical living costs are lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a room around A$200–A$300. The campus offers modern facilities and a supportive environment for doctoral candidates.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and adequate health cover (OSHC). From July 2023, work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The Department of Home Affairs may request evidence of funds. ESOS Act protections apply, including the Tuition Protection Service (TPS). Always check current visa requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au or consult a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work) at Flinders University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter doctoral degrees in Social Work. Ensure the provider (Flinders University, CRICOS 00114A) is registered. Review entry requirements, fees, and location.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Contact Flinders University's international admissions office. Submit your academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, and English test scores (e.g., IELTS). Meet application deadlines — typically for Semester 1 (February) or Semester 2 (July) intake.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa:** Once accepted, Flinders will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa application charge (currently A$650) and arrange OSHC.
Adelaide offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly expenses of A$450–A$600 for a single student. The city has a strong research community, with Flinders University ranked among Australia's top research institutions. Public transport is reliable with a student concession card. The climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm summers. Adelaide's student population exceeds 120,000, providing a multicultural environment. However, consider that doctoral programs require self-discipline and independent study; Adelaide's slower pace may be ideal for focused research.
Ready to apply? Use our directory to explore CRICOS-registered doctoral degrees, then contact Flinders University for detailed entry requirements.
Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Flinders University. 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.