PhD in Electrical and Information Engineering – Adelaide

PhD / Doctorate Electrical & Electronic Engineering Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical and Information Engineering)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

065904M

CRICOS provider code

00121B

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$177,200 total

Per year

A$43,670/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Electrical and Information Engineering at Adelaide University is designed for those who wish to undertake advanced research in key areas such as telecommunications, energy systems, electronics, embedded systems, and information processing. Throughout this four-year full-time programme, candidates develop deep technical expertise and independent research skills by engaging with complex theoretical and practical challenges, contributing significantly to the development of innovative technologies for Australia’s rapidly evolving engineering sector.

The PhD structure in Australia supports students through an initial period of advanced coursework and research training activities, followed by intensive independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors. Candidates complete units of study that contribute to their professional and technical development, culminating in the submission of a thesis that presents an original contribution to the discipline. For many students, professional development or work-integrated learning experiences, such as industry collaboration, conference presentations, or research internships, are integrated to enhance employment outcomes and connect with Australia’s engineering industry.

Graduates emerge with transferrable skills in project management, data analysis, advanced problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific communication, and collaborative research. This programme suits graduates with a relevant Honours or Master’s degree, or equivalent, who are motivated to address technological, societal, and industrial challenges at the forefront of electrical and information engineering.

Adelaide, with its strong reputation in research and innovation, offers plentiful opportunities to engage with leading engineering companies and research institutes. As a public Australian higher education provider, Adelaide University supports international candidates, who must evidence English proficiency (such as IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or equivalent) and may be eligible for work rights during study (48 hours per fortnight), as well as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. Prospective applicants should always confirm entry requirements and programme details via the official university website.

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 researcher or university lecturer
Senior electrical or electronics engineer
Telecommunications specialist
Embedded systems or software architect
Energy systems design and consultancy
Research scientist in public and private innovation labs
Project leader for national and multinational technology organisations
Roles in defence, aerospace, healthcare technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing industries in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical and Information Engineering) at Adelaide 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$177,200 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher or university lecturerSenior electrical or electronics engineerTelecommunications specialistEmbedded systems or software architectEnergy systems design and consultancyResearch scientist in public and private innovation labsProject leader for national and multi...

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