Notable programs
Viticulture and Oenology
Taught at the Waite Research Precinct, which houses 70 percent of Australia's wine research across 15 organisations established in 1924. The Hickinbotham Roseworthy Wine Science Laboratory is Australia's largest teaching winery. Graduates enter Penfolds, Yalumba, and Treasury Wine Estates through established industry pipelines.
Mineral and Mining Engineering
Ranked number 7 globally in QS 2026 Subject Rankings. South Australia's mining sector includes BHP operations and emerging critical minerals projects. The program feeds directly into resources companies recruiting at Adelaide career expos.
Defence and Space Engineering (Software Engineering Apprenticeship)
A five-year integrated program co-designed with BAE Systems, ASC, Saab, and Consunet. Students alternate between university study and embedded industry placements in electronic warfare, submarine systems, and autonomous robotics. Directly tied to the 30 billion dollar AUKUS shipyard program in Adelaide.
Medicine (Direct Entry MBBS/MD)
A six-year direct-entry program at Australia's third-oldest medical school, established 1885. Two Nobel laureates in medicine graduated from this school. Clinical placements at Royal Adelaide Hospital and the broader SA Health network. Competitive entry but no graduate-entry GAMSAT requirement.
Veterinary Science
Ranked 43rd globally in QS 2026. Taught at the rural Roseworthy campus with dedicated animal facilities. One of only seven accredited veterinary schools in Australia, serving the agricultural and companion animal sectors across South Australia.
Wine Business and Marketing
A specialised business program rare among Australian universities, leveraging proximity to Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale wineries. Industry partnerships with Treasury Wine Estates and Wine Australia provide internship placements. Graduates enter wine export, hospitality management, and cellar door operations.