PhD in Engineering: Minerals & Materials – Adelaide Universi
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PhD / Doctorate Geology Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering: Minerals and Materials) (Double Award PHD with Chalmers Tekniska Hogskola)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

082506F

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 (Engineering: Minerals and Materials) (Double Award PhD with Chalmers Tekniska Hogskola) at Adelaide University is a unique, research-focused doctorate that allows candidates to undertake advanced study across two globally respected institutions. This four-year program is structured to deepen understanding in the dynamic field of minerals and materials engineering, with an emphasis on original research and cross-continental collaboration. Candidates develop expertise in areas such as mineral processing, sustainable resource development, advanced materials design, and related interdisciplinary engineering challenges.

Australian PhD programs like this are structured primarily around independent research, supervised by leading academics. Candidates may undertake formal research training (units of study) and credit points are awarded for research milestones and thesis completion. The double award format means students spend significant periods at both Adelaide University and Chalmers Tekniska Hogskola, enriching their experience through international exposure and dual supervision. The culmination is a substantial thesis, making a significant contribution to engineering knowledge, often supported by professional placements, industry engagement, and work-integrated learning where possible.

Graduates gain advanced research skills such as experimental design, data analysis, modelling, critical thinking, and scholarly communication. The program suits those seeking careers as research engineers, academic scholars, or innovators within minerals, mining, and materials engineering sectors. Strong industry links in South Australia, renowned for mining and materials science, provide candidates with collaboration opportunities and alignment with Australian industry needs.

International candidates must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5; see the official page for full details). While enrolled, eligible students have work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight and may pursue the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon completion, supporting employment in Australia's expanding engineering sectors. Always confirm the latest details on the official university site and the CRICOS register.

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

  • Research engineer in minerals and materials industries
  • Academic or lecturer in engineering faculties
  • Consultant in mining, metallurgy, and advanced materials sectors
  • Innovation leader in sustainable resource development
  • Technical advisor in government or private research organisations
  • Project leader in mineral exploration or materials manufacturing

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering: Minerals and Materials) (Double Award PHD with Chalmers Tekniska Hogskola) 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?

Research engineer in minerals and materials industries Academic or lecturer in engineering faculties Consultant in mining, metallurgy, and advanced materials sectors Innovation leader in sustainable resource development Technical advisor in government or private research organisa...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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