A Higher Degree by Research is your chance to pursue a specialist area in your field and build knowledge in your profession. You’ll make discoveries and we’ll help turn them into real-world outcomes that are highly valued by academia, industry and society.
Types of research degree
We offer research degrees in most disciplines, for those who hold a master degree or bachelor degree with first or upper-second class honours.
At least two-thirds of these degrees are pure research. Although you may need to complete some coursework units, the major part of the work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Uncover new knowledge, either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative interpretation of established data.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Become a highly skilled, critical thinking and practical manager who can read, carry out and apply the results of a research initiative.
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Contribute to the growth of the education profession and the discipline itself.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Expand your knowledge beyond the undergraduate honours and postgraduate diploma level with a degree that culminates in a research thesis.
Master of Research (MRes)
Obtain a research master qualification by completing one year of study in addition to your honours year.
Funding and scholarships
There are a variety of funding and scholarship options available to provide you with financial assistance during your research program. This can include a living stipend, a tuition fee offset or a combination of both.
What you can expect
Training and development
Our training and development programs for research candidates will boost your academic, professional and transferable skills.
Powerful industry connections
We’re highly engaged with a range of industry, government and academic partners, including BHP, Chevron, NASA and CSIRO.
Highest median salary in WA
Curtin graduates with a research degree earned the highest median salaries among their graduate peers in WA, and the equal second highest in Australia.
2018 Graduate Outcomes Survey
Virtual Open Day is now on-demand
View information sessions about your favourite study areas at any time, as many times as you like.
2020 Postgrad Expo
Gain new skills and get information on courses that suit your career plans. There will also be advice on juggling study with busy lifestyles, including part-time and online study options.
Curtin researchers recognised at WA Young Tall Poppy Science Awards
Four Curtin researchers have been recognised at the 2020 WA Young Tall Poppy Science Awards, acknowledging their exceptional research and commitment to communicating science.
Curtin Research finds carnivorous plants at risk of extinction
Curtin researchers have found approximately a quarter of carnivorous plant species across the world may be at risk of extinction due to global climate change, illegal poaching and cleared land.
Report finds AI and Blockchain could transform Australia’s transport sector
Curtin Research has found applications of Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Technology are set to revolutionise the transport sector and Australia needs to move quickly to capture the benefits.
Study finds financial services and payments boost needed to beat poverty
A new study has pointed to a need for ongoing Centrelink payment increases and additional support for non-profit financial support services to help people facing financial hardship.
The Future of: Travel bubbles
Join Curtin researchers Dr Mingming Cheng and Professor Kirsten Holmes, to discuss the likelihood of travel bubbles, changes to tourism, and how our own travel may evolve in the wake of COVID-19.
The Future of: Reconciliation
Join Curtin Nyungar cultural advisor Mrs Ingrid Cumming and Curtin research Fellow Professor Cheryl Kickett-Tucker to discuss reconciliation and what we can do to bring Australians together as one.
The Future of: China’s soft power strategy
Join Professor Michael Keane from the school of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry to discuss the future of China’s international influence, global standing and their ‘soft power’ strategy.
The Future of: Killer whales
Join Dr Rebecca Wellard as she discusses how killer whales use bioacoustics, including echolocation clicks and burst-pulse sounds, to navigate, hunt, communicate and socialise with other pod members.