PhD (Mechanical & Industrial Engineering) - Dual Award
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PhD / Doctorate Mechanical Engineering Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology) (Dual Award PhD with Nantes University)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

110735A

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 (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology) (Dual Award PhD with Nantes University) at Adelaide University offers an intensive research experience across two international institutions, providing doctoral candidates with advanced expertise in mechanical and industrial engineering. Over a typical duration of four years, students undertake original research, hone analytical and technical skills, and contribute to global knowledge in fields such as manufacturing systems, robotics, materials engineering, mechatronics, sustainable energy, or automation.

The course structure is rooted in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for doctoral research, requiring candidates to complete substantial independent research under expert supervision. Candidates typically produce a thesis that demonstrates a significant contribution to knowledge, with opportunities for international collaboration due to the dual award arrangement with Nantes University. Throughout the candidature, students may engage in coursework or professional development activities as determined by their approved research plan. The programme also supports work-integrated learning, industry engagement, and research dissemination through seminars and conferences.

This PhD is designed for individuals driven by curiosity and a passion for innovation in engineering. It suits those aiming for academic, research, or advanced industry roles in Australia and internationally. Graduates develop high-level technical, problem-solving, project management, and communication skills, as well as experience working within diverse research environments. Admission typically requires a relevant honours or master's degree, and international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, most commonly through IELTS or equivalent tests. Applicants should verify the latest requirements and programme structure on the official Adelaide University page.

As with other Australian research degrees, students are assessed on their research output and thesis. The four-year format reflects rigorous expectations, with support for career development, professional experience, and optional internships. Students can take advantage of paid work rights (48 hours per fortnight during study) and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after completion for post-study work opportunities in Australia's robust engineering and technology sectors.

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 lecturer in universities and research institutions
  • Mechanical or industrial engineer in manufacturing, defence, automotive, aerospace, energy, or resources sectors
  • Consultant in engineering, technology, or innovation management
  • Research and development manager in advanced technology firms
  • Specialist roles in automation, robotics, or mechatronics industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology) (Dual Award PhD with Nantes University) 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 lecturer in universities and research institutionsMechanical or industrial engineer in manufacturing, defence, automotive, aerospace, energy, or resources sectorsConsultant in engineering, technology, or innovation managementResearch and development manager...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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