Course Overview

About This Course

Transform ideas into real-world impact with our flagship research degree. Every breakthrough discovery begins with curiosity – a question, challenge or unique problem that sparks a drive to explore and solve. Often, these innovations begin with people like you – those who push the boundaries of knowledge to create meaningful change.

New knowledge drives progress in society, the economy and industry. The researchers behind these discoveries are essential across all disciplines – from the creative arts and healthcare to education, social work and beyond. Their work fuels innovation, inspires social change and establishes best practices across all aspects of our lives.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a distinguished academic qualification and Adelaide University's flagship research degree. Whether you aspire towards a research-focused career in academia or a role in industry underpinned by research expertise, this degree empowers you to deepen your knowledge, break new ground, and contribute something unique to our world.

Become a thought leader and change maker by studying a PhD at Adelaide University. Your degree will allow for a thriving career, where your research experience is respected and rewarded by industry and academia alike. A PhD is an investment in yourself as an innovator and a leader – and it's the essential qualification for those aspiring towards a research-focused career in the private or public sector, or academia.

Adelaide University attracts world-leading researchers who will mentor and supervise you throughout your PhD journey. With their support, you'll undertake an independent project on a topic that's both meaningful to you and significant to your field. A PhD is a self-directed degree that does not involve classes or coursework. Instead, you'll complete progress milestones. Your studies will culminate in a substantial thesis or creative project and exegesis that offers an original contribution to your discipline, and an oral examination of your thesis or creative work and exegesis before a panel of examiners.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide, South AustraliaUniversity of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South AustraliaAdelaide City CampusMagill CampusMawson Lakes CampusMount Gambier CampusRoseworthy CampusWaite CampusWhyalla CampusADELAIDEMawson Lakes

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

A Master degree by research (AQF level 9); or
A Master degree by coursework (AQF level 9) or Master degree extended (AQF level 9) with weighted average mark (WAM) of ≥ 65 or a seven-point GPA of 5.0 or higher, incorporating at least 0.5 years full time (or part time equivalent) of research training* with a WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher; or
A 4-year Bachelor (Honours) (AQF level 8) or Graduate Diploma (AQF level 8) (following a bachelor or honours degree) with an overall WAM of ≥ 65 or a seven-point GPA of 5.0 or higher, incorporating at least 0.5 years full time (or part time equivalent) of research training* with a WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher; or
A Graduate Certificate (Research Skills) (AQF level 8) with an overall WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher, with approved professional experience; or
An equivalent combination of qualifications and experience.
*The 0.5 EFTSL of research training must have included at least 50% of research on a focused topic.
You will need to demonstrate that your prior qualifications used as the basis for admission are in a discipline relevant to the proposed area of research – unless an exemption is approved by the Pro Vice Chancellor, Graduate Research Training (or delegate).
Admission to a research degree at Adelaide University is conditional on the availability of a suitable supervisory panel and resources to support the proposed project.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

A PhD unlocks a world of opportunities – whether you aim to become a recognised authority in your field, pursue specialised or high-paying roles in your current industry or make a meaningful impact by translating research into actionable policies and practices. Whether you aspire towards a research-focused career in academia or a role in industry underpinned by research expertise, this degree empowers you to deepen your knowledge, break new ground, and contribute something unique to our world.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study the Doctor of Philosophy part-time?

Yes, part-time study options may be available for Australian students, depending on the specific project areas. The program is designed to be flexible so you can choose to study full-time or part-time, helping you pursue your study goals without forgoing your current commitments.

Are there any tuition fees for domestic students undertaking the PhD?

Domestic students can complete this PhD program with no tuition fees, and scholarships are also available. Scholarships and fee waivers are also available for eligible international students.

When can I start the Doctor of Philosophy?

Graduate research students can commence this degree at any time of year. However, students seeking scholarships will need to align with scholarship round offers. Key intake periods listed are January and July.

What does the PhD program involve — are there classes or coursework?

A PhD is a self-directed degree that does not involve classes or coursework. Instead, you'll complete progress milestones. Your studies will culminate in a substantial thesis or creative project and exegesis that offers an original contribution to your discipline, and an oral examination of your thesis or creative work and exegesis before a panel of examiners.

What if I don't yet meet the entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy?

Adelaide University offers research-focused Graduate Certificates that can help you take the next step towards your goals — whether that's advancing your career or working towards a research qualification. These include the Graduate Certificate in Research Skills and Graduate Certificate in Research Design, which can provide a clear pathway to a PhD for those who didn't meet the entry requirements for the Master of Research or who are experienced professionals looking to upskill their research abilities.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $91,000 to $115,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $115,000 to $150,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $150,000 to $200,000 per year

Career Paths

Research Scientist – Minerals and ResourcesPostdoctoral Research Fellow (Geoscience / Mining / Metallurgy)Senior Geologist / Principal GeologistResource Geologist / Resource Estimation SpecialistMining Engineer / Senior Mining Engineer

Key Skills

Independent scientific research design and executionAdvanced geological mapping and mineral systems analysisResource estimation and geostatistical modellingMineral processing and hydrometallurgical analysisGeotechnical engineering and rock mechanics assessment

Full Course Overview

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