There are 103 Doctoral Degree courses offered by 4 CRICOS-registered providers across South Australia. Whether you're looking to advance your research in health, engineering, or the humanities, South Australia's universities offer world-class supervision and facilities. This page provides everything you need to know about studying a doctoral degree in SA, including fees, duration, English requirements, and a step-by-step guide to applying. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). South Australia is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and the University of South Australia, each offering a unique research environment. The state boasts a lower cost of living compared to other Australian capitals, making it an attractive option for international students. With 103 doctoral programs available, you'll find a course that matches your research interests. Keep reading to explore the top providers, tuition costs, and what life is like as a doctoral candidate in South Australia.
Counted from the official register for SA: 111 non-expired CRICOS courses across 7 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.
Ranked by active CRICOS course coverage for Doctoral Degree in South Australia on the April 2026 register snapshot. Recalculated this build (2026-10-05). Use this as a shortlist, then confirm current fees and intakes with each provider.
Commercial disclosure: Payment does not affect this ranking or inclusion. Ordering is coverage-based from the CRICOS register — not an endorsement or quality score. How we rank · Is this legit?
Adelaide University is a government CRICOS provider with 497 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$12,110 to A$592,590. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 04249J, Government, 497 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Flinders University is a government CRICOS provider with 448 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$459 to A$415,381. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree (Research).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00114A, Government, 448 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
University of South Australia (UniSA)
University of South Australia (UniSA) is a government CRICOS provider with 344 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$231,000. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Graduate Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00121B, Government, 344 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
The University of Adelaide (Adelaide)
The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) is a government CRICOS provider with 341 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$2,000 to A$567,990. Common levels include Doctoral Degree, Masters Degree (Research), Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00123M, Government, 341 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Torrens University Australia Limited
Torrens University Australia Limited is a private CRICOS provider with 108 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$500 to A$129,000. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03389E, Private, 108 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
TAFE SA is a government CRICOS provider with 80 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$5,875 to A$80,260. Common levels include Diploma, Non AQF Award, Associate Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00092B, Government, 80 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Le Cordon Bleu Australia Pty Limited
Le Cordon Bleu Australia Pty Limited is a private CRICOS provider with 69 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$9,980 to A$82,551. Common levels include Advanced Diploma, Bachelor Degree, Graduate Certificate.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 02380M, Private, 69 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
SAE Institute Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 54 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$12,498 to A$85,249. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Associate Degree, Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00312F, Private, 54 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Young Rabbit Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 47 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$4,100 to A$23,130. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Diploma, Advanced Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 01331F, Private, 47 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Greenwich College Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS provider with 44 active courses matched to Doctoral Degree in South Australia. Indicative course totals on register from A$1,660 to A$28,000. Common levels include Non AQF Award, Certificate IV, Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 02672K, Private, 44 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Similar to a register-first directory: every claim you can act on should be checkable against an official source. Full ranking rules: methodology.
Maintained by HeadStart Academy editorial · Snapshot recalculated this build (2026-10-05).
| Field of Education | Approx Tuition Range | Approx Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Natural and Physical Sciences | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Society and Culture | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Health | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Engineering and Related Technologies | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Education | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Management and Commerce | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Creative Arts | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Information Technology | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Architecture and Building | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
| Mixed Field Programmes | $97,200 – $250,000 | 3–5 years |
A Doctoral Degree is the highest level of academic qualification in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 10). It qualifies you for advanced research and professional practice, typically requiring the completion of a substantial research thesis that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. Entry generally requires a master's degree or honours degree with a research component, and proficiency in English. A doctoral degree can lead to careers in academia, research institutes, senior leadership in industry, or specialised professional roles. It is a common pathway from master's degrees and can also be undertaken after a bachelor's degree with honours. All programs listed on this page are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian quality standards.
Tuition fees for Doctoral Degrees in South Australia range from A$97,200 to A$250,000 for the full program, depending on the institution and field of study. Duration is typically 3 to 5 years of full-time study. The table below shows indicative ranges by broad field of education. Note that non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and student services), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and living costs are separate. Living costs in Adelaide, for example, are estimated at around A$500–600 per week for rent, food, and transport, but can vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
There are four CRICOS-registered providers offering Doctoral Degrees in South Australia. The University of South Australia (UniSA) leads with 50 courses, known for its strong industry connections and research centres. Flinders University offers 32 courses, with strengths in health and medical research. The University of Adelaide provides 18 courses and is part of the Group of Eight, excelling in traditional research disciplines. Adelaide University, a newer institution, offers 3 doctoral courses focused on specialised fields. Each provider is government-funded and CRICOS-registered, ensuring high-quality education for international students.
Doctoral Degrees in South Australia span a wide range of fields. From Natural and Physical Sciences to Society and Culture, Health, Engineering, Education, Management and Commerce, Creative Arts, Information Technology, Architecture and Building, Agriculture and Environmental Studies, and Mixed Field Programmes. This variety ensures that international students can find a supervisor and program that aligns with their research interests. With over 100 courses available, you can pursue cutting-edge research in areas like biomedical science, artificial intelligence, environmental policy, or Indigenous studies.
Most South Australian universities require an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 for Doctoral Degree programs, depending on the field. Some institutions may also accept equivalent scores in other tests like TOEFL or PTE. It's important to check the specific requirements of your chosen provider, as some competitive programs may ask for higher scores. Meeting the English language requirement is a key step in the application process.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study a Doctoral Degree in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and English proficiency. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, and the ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. For detailed visa guidance, visit our student visa page.
Follow these three steps to begin your doctoral journey in South Australia: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – ensure you meet entry requirements, have English test results, and adhere to application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to consult a registered migration agent for visa advice.
South Australia offers a vibrant research environment with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Adelaide, the capital, is a UNESCO City of Music with a diverse student community. Public transport is accessible and affordable, with discounts for international students. The state has a strong focus on innovation and industry partnerships, providing opportunities for collaboration. Consider factors like supervision expertise, campus facilities, and lifestyle when choosing your destination. With 103 courses and four universities, South Australia is a compelling choice for doctoral study.
Ready to start your doctoral journey in South Australia? Explore courses on HeadStart Academy today.
Showing 80 doctoral degree courses from 2 CRICOS providers in South Australia.