PhD in Education at Flinders University Adelaide

PhD / Doctorate Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Education)

at Flinders University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

106255G

CRICOS provider code

00114A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$132,600 total

Per year

A$33,150/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education at Flinders University is a rigorous, research-intensive programme that empowers candidates to contribute original scholarship to the field of curriculum and instruction. This four-year doctoral programme enables students to engage deeply with educational theories, methodologies and practices, focusing on advancing pedagogical knowledge and educational policy in the Australian and global contexts.

Structured according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the PhD requires completion of a substantial body of independent research, culminating in a doctoral thesis that makes a significant and original contribution to the field. Candidates work closely with experienced academic supervisors, engaging in seminars, research training workshops, and scholarly activities designed to develop critical analysis, advanced research design, and evidence-based argumentation skills. While there are no coursework units as in undergraduate or taught postgraduate programmes, students may undertake research methodologies units or professional development activities as needed, for which some credit points may be assigned.

This programme is suited to educators, administrators, curriculum specialists, or policy professionals who aspire to academic, leadership, or consultancy roles in education. Students gain expertise in research, analytical thinking, project management, and scholarly writing. Flinders University's strong connections with South Australian schools, state education departments, and research centres provide avenues for collaborative projects and professional engagement throughout the doctoral journey.

International students will need to demonstrate English proficiency meeting Flinders University’s requirements and may benefit from 48 hours of work rights per fortnight during study, as well as eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. Prospective students are encouraged to confirm all details on the official university page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Academic positions in Australian universities and research institutions
Educational policy adviser in government or non-government organisations
Curriculum and instruction specialist in schools, education departments, or consultancies
Education researcher within research agencies or think tanks
Senior leadership roles in school systems or educational authorities
Professional development coordinator in educational and training settings

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Education) at Flinders University?

It typically takes 4 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$132,600 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic positions in Australian universities and research institutionsEducational policy adviser in government or non-government organisationsCurriculum and instruction specialist in schools, education departments, or consultanciesEducation researcher within research agencies or...

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