Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) (CRICOS course code 106267C) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Flinders University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students who want to conduct original research in medical studies, contributing new knowledge to the field. Flinders University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00114A), offers this course at its Bedford Park campus in Adelaide, South Australia. As a doctoral candidate, you will work closely with a supervisory team to develop, execute, and disseminate a substantial research project. The program equips graduates with advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly communication. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Flinders University is recognised for its strong research focus in health and medical sciences. This course is ideal for those seeking careers in academia, medical research, or clinical leadership. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) falls under the field of Medical Studies (0601), specifically a general medical studies program (060199). At the doctoral level, students are expected to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge. While the exact syllabus is determined by the candidate's research project, typical components include advanced research design, data collection and analysis, ethics approval, thesis writing, and a final oral examination (viva voce). Students develop expertise in their chosen medical specialty, whether it be clinical medicine, public health, or biomedical science. The program also cultivates transferable skills such as project management, academic writing, and peer review. Graduates emerge as independent researchers capable of leading research teams and influencing medical practice. Flinders University provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities at its Bedford Park campus, including laboratories, clinical simulation centres, and library resources.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 4 years (208 weeks). This is a single qualification with no dual award. The language of instruction is English. The program is research-based, involving full-time study with regular supervision meetings. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are typically required to study full-time to comply with visa conditions. The course does not include a mandatory work component, though candidates may engage in casual teaching or research assistant roles subject to University policies. All international students must maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay.
Indicative tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) are A$158,200 for the full program, based on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, library access) are estimated at A$3,065, bringing the estimated total to A$161,265. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For international students, OSHC is mandatory and typically costs between A$500 and A$800 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Adelaide are more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly costs of A$450–600 for rent, A$80–100 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. Always confirm current fees on the Flinders University website, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register – we recommend verifying directly with the provider before applying.
To be considered for Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine), applicants typically need to hold a Bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as medicine, health sciences, or biomedical science. A Master's degree by research may also be accepted. English language proficiency is essential; Flinders University usually requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent). Some projects may have higher requirements. Applicants must submit a research proposal and identify a supervisory team. Foundation or pathway options are generally not available for doctoral programs; however, Flinders University offers a Master of Science (Medicine) by research which can serve as a stepping stone. International students should check specific entry requirements on the Flinders University website and consult with the Graduate Research School.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, doctoral candidates may have opportunities to engage in paid work as tutors, research assistants, or lab demonstrators, subject to University regulations. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, provided they have commenced their course. Any work must not interfere with academic progress. Always check visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) is delivered at Flinders University's Bedford Park campus (BEDFORD PARK, SA). Bedford Park is a suburb of Adelaide, approximately 10 km south of the city centre. Adelaide is home to over 1.3 million people and hosts several universities, including the University of Adelaide, University of South Australia, and Flinders University. The city has a vibrant student population and a relatively low cost of living compared to other Australian capitals. Public transport to Bedford Park includes buses and the Flinders railway station, with regular services connecting to the city. The campus offers modern research facilities, libraries, and student support services. International students enjoy a safe, multicultural environment with easy access to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (minimum A$21,041 per year), and OSHC. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Family members can accompany you on a dependent visa. After completing a doctoral degree, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) at Flinders University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare doctoral programs in Medicine. Filter by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Medical Studies), and location (South Australia). Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Flinders University's website to review the specific entry requirements for this PhD program. Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), and referee reports. Check application deadlines – many universities have multiple intake periods for research degrees.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once Flinders University offers you a place, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Plan to arrive in time for your course start date.
Remember that all international students must comply with ESOS Act protections and maintain valid enrolment. For help with visa applications, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above or visit the Flinders University website for the most up-to-date information. Start your PhD journey in Australia today!
Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) 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.