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You're viewing degree information for International students

You're considered an International student if you are:

• NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
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Doctor of Philosophy

Degree Level Research

Degree info for International students

Campus City East

Duration 4 year(s) full-time

Mode On-campus

Program Code IPHD

Fees AUD$ 39,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

International Admission by Country See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code See research areas (PDF)

Program level Doctorate by research

Entry requirements

You must check the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for and make sure you are eligible.

• If you are an international applicant you also need to check that you meet the English language requirements.
• Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not automatically guarantee entry into a research degree.

Degree overview

• Join a community of passionate researchers and explore research topics across pharmacy, nursing, midwifery, laboratory medicine, biomedical sciences, nutrition and food sciences.
• Be at the forefront of clinical discovery through our research into prevention, causes, diagnosis, management and cures of disease.
• Investigate the best ways to help improve patient outcomes and create positive change in the health industry.
• Partner with industry, community and government institutions worldwide.
• Learn to independently design and execute original research that generates new knowledge.
• Study at a university with well above world-class research in nursing, nutrition and dietetics, biochemistry and cell biology, pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences, and medical physiology. 1
• Learn from experienced and highly qualified research supervisors and renowned academics who will support, mentor and guide you through your studies.
• UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. 2 As one of the World’s Top Young Universities 3 , we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2 UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. 3 Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

What is a research degree?

A research degree is an advanced program of study allowing you to investigate a topic relevant to your field. Under the supervision of world-class researchers, higher degree research candidates learn and apply advanced research methodologies to produce new knowledge and find solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. Completing a research degree means becoming an expert in your field. It’s your opportunity to take a topic which interests you; explore it in depth; tackle intellectual, creative and practical challenges; and communicate your findings.

You can study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications) or Master of Research.

Research degrees offered at UniSA

Doctor of philosophy (phd).

Produces graduates with the capacity to conduct research independently at a high level of originality and quality. By the end of the degree, UniSA’s PhD students are capable of independently designing and executing original research which generates new knowledge (three to four years full-time equivalent).

Doctor of Philosophy (by Portfolio of Publications)

Allows formal recognition of established researchers and/or scholars who do not already hold a PhD qualification, and who have produced a significant body of research of international standing in their field, with an ongoing record of academic publication (work).

Master of Research

Students analyse their thesis topic at an advanced level, applying research methodology and techniques to contribute further knowledge to their field, under appropriate supervision (two years full-time equivalent).

Please note, a Masters degree by coursework (such as an MBA) involves enrolling in selected courses and participating in lectures and tutorials (online or on campus). It is different to a Master of Research.

Find out more about what you can study.

Why do a research degree?

UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. We are vibrant, outward-facing and responsive. We partner with industry, government and communities to seek answers to questions that arise in the real world. 

Learn more about our research .

The transformed PhD

UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed research that supports employer-relevant curriculum. To achieve this, and to produce entrepreneurial and business-aware graduates, we have developed the transformed PhD.

We have added a structured component to research degrees including enhanced skill development, supervisory panels and a technology-enabled oral defence of the thesis. Through these activities you will develop a set of professional, transferable skills relevant to our knowledge-based enterprise economy.

The aim of the transformed PhD is to increase your employment prospects in any career path. You will possess the knowledge, expertise and confidence to meet the emerging needs of academia, industry, government and the community.

Four good reasons to do a research degree

• Challenge yourself. You will need to work hard, be dedicated and think analytically at a high level. You will tackle completely new research and different research methods, or extend research already undertaken.
• Increase your career opportunities. A research degree provides evidence of independent thought and the ability to manage a research project in a given timeframe. Your research could allow you to develop a new specialisation, academic field or career. A research degree at UniSA will also allow you to develop a skillset which sets you apart, putting you at the centre of your professional development.
• Make your ideas public. Your research findings may be published, presented at conferences, provide a commercial return and have a positive impact on society.
• Contribute to society. Discover new methods, understandings and techniques, and solve a real-world problem.

What can I research?

Research students can complete exciting and innovative research topics that span areas such as:

• cancer biology
• clinical laboratory medicine
• precision health/nutritional and genetic epidemiology
• drug and vaccines development
• health service delivery
• nutrition and food science
• mental health and suicide prevention
• nursing and midwifery 
• pharmaceutical and chemical innovation
• physiological and biomedical sciences
• quality use of medicines and pharmacy

Our research is also facilitated by research concentrations and groups, including: Australian Centre for Precision Health :  population health research to improve the future of health.

Centre for Cancer Biology :  an alliance between SA Pathology and UniSA, carrying out vital cancer research.

Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation: developing better medicines.

Drug Discovery and Development :  providing clinical access to new drugs for a range of therapeutic applications, particularly cancer.

Experimental Therapeutics :  developing novel prophylactic vaccines and immunotherapeutics to improve chronic and acute health outcomes with a focus on allergy and cancer.

Health and Biomedical Innovation :  leading research into the workings of the body and its interaction with its surrounding environment.

Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics: identifying biomarkers for the early detection of ovarian and gastric cancer.

Mechanisms in Cell Biology and Disease :  focusing on medical research relating to diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Research and Education :  leading initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people in mental distress and at risk of suicide.

Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre :  consumer-driven, data-informed research, effective in improving use of medicines and improving patient lives.

Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre :  strengthening the role of the nursing and midwifery profession across the health system through the development of a research-driven, evidence-based platform of healthcare.

Find a research area

To find a research area, you'll need to match your qualifications and interests to the  research projects  offered at UniSA. These have been developed by teams of academics who will supervise you during your research degree.

Scholarships and projects

A scholarship allows you to focus on your research without needing to do paid work. At UniSA, you can explore high achiever scholarships, vacation research scholarships, as well as Vice Chancellor and President’s scholarships.

We also offer thematically-based scholarships. These scholarships will not only address local, national and international grand challenges, they will also ensure you work across the University, with industry, and with community partners.

Learn more about available scholarships .

Graduate outcomes

There are seven identified graduate qualities and outcomes that result from doing a research degree at UniSA. Importantly, these competencies are transferable to the workplace, whether academic or professional. In brief, a research degree graduate of the University of South Australia:

• understands, can contribute to and critique current research-based knowledge in their field
• is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence
• is an effective problem solver and researcher
• can work both autonomously and collaboratively as a researcher
• is committed to ethical action and social responsibility
• communicates research knowledge effectively
• demonstrates international perspectives in research

Read about our  research degree graduate qualities  in more detail.

Why Doctor of Philosophy

At UniSA, our research degree students solve real world problems, partner with end-users of research, and develop skills for research excellence with career relevance. 

UniSA provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment where you are encouraged to explore your own ideas under the supervision of some of Australia’s leading researchers. Our focus is always on finding practical solutions and creating new knowledge with a focus on addressing globally significant issues. In fact, 100% of our assessed research is rated at or above world-class. 1

We offer a research environment with highly experienced and engaged supervisors, extensive connections to industry, government and communities. We encourage you to connect with our researchers and find out the possibilities.

UniSA is also ranked as the No.1 Young University in Australia for industry income. 2 Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented. Read more about our strengths in research and discover some of our achievements.

1 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA), 4-digit Fields of Research.  2 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

Career outcomes

Your career.

A doctoral qualification will advance your career possibilities and give you a competitive edge in the workplace.

You may choose to further your career in industry, academia or in research with a research institution or university locally or internationally.

Before applying, you will need to do some investigation. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of preparing your application to maximise your chances of success.

Please check the  research degrees calendar for all key dates.

Eligibility

Check to see if you meet the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for.

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more .

More scholarships

Research Training Program international (RTPi) and University Presidents Scholarship

These scholarships will cover your tuition fees and your overseas health cover, and provide and a stipend (living allowance).

Learn more arrow-small-right

Research Themes PhD Scholarships

These scholarships address local, national and international grand challenges, and encourage collaboration with industry and community partners.

Australia’s University of Enterprise

Study at South Australia’s No. 1 university for graduate careers* and unlock your full potential.

*ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

What others are saying

My research focuses on improving the oral absorption of antipsychotic medications for schizophrenic patients. Through this research I was awarded an Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to conduct world-class research at Janssen, a global pharmaceutical company in Belgium. Without the support from my supervisors here at UniSA, I would never have been awarded this scholarship.

Tahnee Dening

My PhD with the Australian Track Cycling Team is focused on using the Critical Power model. This model describes the maximal work capacity of elite athletes through aerobic and anaerobic contributions to exercise. As part of my research I worked directly alongside the head coach of the Australian Team, providing sport science support in areas of physiology, biomechanics and performance analysis.

Jason Bartram

Doctor of Philosophy Head Coach of the Australian Women's Track Cycling Endurance Team

My research focuses on Parkinson’s disease, specifically developing a pre-clinical model of Parkinson’s disease so that novel treatment options can be explored. As part of my research, I received a UniSA international travel grant, which allowed me to study new laboratory techniques for four weeks at the Hannover Medical School in Germany and attend an international conference in London. Both experiences broadened my knowledge of neuroscience.

Michaela Johnson

I am investigating drug resistance in multiple myeloma, currently an incurable blood cancer. During my studies I received a Vice Chancellor and President Scholarship, which will allow me to attend one of the largest conferences in the world for people working in blood cancer, held by the American Society of Haematology.

Melissa Bennett

I enjoy the hands-on experiences undertaking a research pathway presents. I hope my research will help the defence force better monitor training loads and avoid injury and illness that may be caused by overtraining. 

Dr Max Nelson

I was a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, and investigated the relationship between running and sports injury. I worked with athletes and researchers from the University of Massachusetts to explore a new biomechanical assessment technique I developed at UniSA. In 2016, I was also the winner of the UniSA Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition and more recently, was awarded the South Australian Science Award. I hope to translate my findings to practice and provide athletes with improved injury prevention strategies.

Joel Fuller

I’m working with families who have experienced multiple stillbirths, and by examining their DNA sequences I have been able to uncover the ‘faulty’ gene. This then allows couples to undergo a process where embryos are screened before implantation and only those that don’t carry the disease causing gene mutation are selected. I was awarded the Maurice de Rohan scholarship, where I will undertake research at the Center for Mendelian Genomics (CMG) at the Broad Institute of Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Alicia Byrne

In 2016 I won People’s Choice Award in the UniSA Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, where I presented on the idea of harnessing immunotherapy as a treatment for cancer. I believe that my PhD project, which explores the function of the body’s cardiovascular system in relation to melanoma tumours, could lead to the discovery of better treatments for melanoma and even prevent this serious form of skin cancer.

Lih Yin Tan

I’m constantly motivated by the rewarding outcomes of my research. Through 3D chemistry modelling and statistical data analysis, I’m able to link adverse effects to medications and then see how this impacts the body, which will hopefully allow patients to be better informed about medication options and risks.

Jack Janetzki

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

We offer unparalleled learning facilities, and are committed to continually investing in and upgrading our laboratories and technical capabilities to ensure researchers have access to the very best resources and equipment needed to carry out world-class research. Some of our specialised laboratories and facilities include the:

• Bradley Building : UniSA’s flagship research, teaching and public engagement facility
• Clinical Trial Facility : modern, purpose-built, dedicated clinical research spaces
• Adelaide Biofilm Test Facility : South Australia’s first test facility for antimicrobial agents, pharmaceutical preparations, dressings, materials and coatings
• Biophysical Characterisation Facility : houses state of the art equipment for studying bio-molecular interactions
• Fully equipped laboratories with advanced synthetic and medicinal chemistry, analytical, genomic, tissue culture and biomedical imaging suites used to support cutting-edge research
• Laboratory and pilot scale pharmaceutical development, analysis and characterisation equipment for various dosage forms

Student accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Find out more

For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/Research/Degrees/

You are eligible for a range of scholarships and grants as a current research student. For example, the prestigious Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarship, Maurice de Rohan International Travel Scholarships or one of UniSA’s International Travel Grants. See Scholarships and Prizes for more information.

Hear from some of our health PhD students as they discuss their studies and exciting research opportunities at UniSA.

Hear from Research Professor Cory Xian, whose research focuses on tissue and bone injury repair.

Hear from Professor of Physiology Janna Morrison, whose research focuses on the increased risk of cardiovascular disease on babies who are born too small or too early.

Hear from Associate Research Professor Paul Anderson, whose research focuses on preventative strategies for treating bone diseases such as osteoarthritis.

The world’s 5th most liveable city, Adelaide is welcoming and multicultural. It is an ideal home away from home.

International students

UniSA welcomes students from around the world. Discover what you can study, how to apply, and our support services.

Accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long- or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

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Study at UniSA

Accounting and Finance Business Management and HRM Marketing Property Tourism, Sports and Events

Architecture Communication Contemporary Art Creative Industries Design Film, Television and Visual Effects Journalism Urban and Regional Planning

Biomedical Science Health Science Human Movement, Sport, Clinical Exercise Physiology Laboratory Medicine Medical Radiation Science Nursing or Midwifery Nutrition and Food Sciences Occupational Therapy Pharmacy Physiotherapy Podiatry Speech Pathology

• Law & Criminal Justice

Aboriginal and Australian Studies Arts Human Services Languages Psychology Social Work

Aviation Construction Management Defence Engineering Environmental Science Information Technology Mathematics Science

• Teaching & Education
• What can I study
• Entry pathways
• Find an education agent
• Sponsorships
• Living in Adelaide
• UniSA Online
• Scholarships
• Postgraduate study
• Research degrees
• Executive Education
• Regional students
• Aboriginal students
• Discover our research Partner with us
• Research projects
• How to apply
• Check your eligibility
• Research scholarships
• Concentrations
• Cooperative Research Centres
• Research studies & volunteers
• Research experts
• Industry & collaboration
• Mawson Lakes
• Mount Gambier
• Psychology Clinic
• Health Clinics
• Disability Hub
• Wirringka Student Services
• Museums and galleries
• Industry & partnerships
• Enterprise Hub

About UniSA

• Our history
• Vice Chancellor
• Achievements
• Mission, values, vision
• Strategic action plan
• Staff directory
• UniSA Allied Health & Performance
• UniSA Business
• UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences
• UniSA Creative
• UniSA Education Futures
• UniSA Justice & Society
• Working at UniSA
• Publications
• Aboriginal engagement
• Login Staff Students Alumni
• Engage with our PhD research

Information for industry partners

• Why UniSA for a PhD

Connect with UniSA's PhD candidates

At UniSA, we provide oppportunities for prospective and existing partners to engage with our PhD candidates.

By connecting with our PhD candidates, you can help to provide valuable learning opportunities, solve challenges in research and enhance our graduates' employability. 

Why connect with our PhD candidates?

Research expertise.

UniSA PhD programs deliver highly skilled researchers who become experts in their chosen field.

Enterprising futures

Our graduates are job-ready, equipped with knowledge and ready to contribute to your organisation.

Skills in practice

Provide an opportunity for experiential learning, enabling PhD candidates to build their skills in the workplace and beyond.    

Careers in focus

Support a PhD candidate's professional development goals and career ambitions.

Ways to connect

Co-design a research project.

Has your organisation identified a particular problem that requires investigation through research? Engage with us to co-design a bespoke project-based research degree that will deliver real outcomes to your business or industry more broadly.

• Structured involvement  – A co-designed research project requires a shared commitment from your organisation and UniSA to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome.
• Moderate time commitment – Nominate an expert from within your organisation to be part of a supervisory team and provide the student with local insight and end-user expertise
• Overall duration of up to four years for a full-time PhD candidate  – there may be different time requirements at key stages of the PhD, and depending on the research degree.  

Mentoring offers opportunities for PhD candidates to gain awareness and insights directly from you about your workplace, industry, values and purpose. This can be undertaken directly between the mentor and candidate or through a formal mentoring scheme.

• Flexible involvement  – the frequency and schedule can be negotiated by the mentor and the candidate. 
• Low to moderate time commitment  – no more than one session every two months. 
• Overall duration anywhere between 1-3 years  – this can be determined as the relationship progresses. 

Industry placement or internship

A placement is a way for a PhD candidate to understand  and work with an  organisation  on a problem. An internship involves the candidate spending time within your  organisation , usually undertaking a research project of interest to all parties. The research project may  or may not be  directly linked with the candidate’s thesis topic.   

• Structured involvement  – there will be an agreed-upon project scope and objectives.  
• Moderate time commitment  – a placement can be set up for autonomous work, or integrated with your organisation as desired.  
• Short term duration  – approximately six weeks to six months maximum.  

The Australian Government facilitates  rebate-based  internship opportunities for PhD candidates via the APR Intern Scheme , to which you can apply directly .  

Join a supervisory panel

A supervisory panel guides a PhD candidate through their research  degree , making sure their project is academically sound and industry relevant. As an e nd-user advisor on a supervisory panel , you  will support the academic supervisory panel with  project co-creation (idea development, in-kind and/or  funding   contributions, etc.) , mentoring the candidate, career development support, and/or providing resources, exposure and experiences related to your industry.  

• Flexible involvement – you may wish to contribute to multiple aspects of the project, or  take a specific role as an end-user advi sor .  
• Moderate time commitment – this can be negotiated with other members of the supervisory panel and the candidate early in the project.  

Find out more

For additional information or to learn about the requirements of working with our research students please contact us .

Explore Enterprising Research Degrees further

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

International students

Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry