The Orientation Session for higher degree by research (HDR) students (doctoral and masters by research) sets the scene for research study at Curtin and includes hints for surviving your first year and beyond.
We recommend you also attend other activities offered around the University to get familiar with the campus, your specific school/department and key areas such as the library.
Blackboard HDR Essentials
HDR Essentials is a new online induction package for HDR students on Blackboard. Co-located with Research Integrity, you will find it within the Research Integrity and HDR Essentials organisation. It contains valuable resources and video messages from key areas of Curtin and covers:
- Research at Curtin University
- Managing your research
- Making connections and staying well
- Career planning and development
You can self-enrol in this Blackboard organisation, or contact ROC-excellence@curtin.edu.au for assistance.
2026 Orientation: Higher Degree by Research students
Next: Tuesday 10 February 2026
Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm (Australian Western Standard Time, AWST)
Where: The Lantern, level 7, TL Robertson Library
How to register: search ‘HDR Orientation’ under ‘Events’ on Unihub
Contact: ROC-Excellence@curtin.edu.au
Program: Numerous speakers across Curtin’s support services, including the Research Office, Student Well-Being, and Library Research Support. A supervisory panel and PhD student will also give their key insights for success.
Previous recordings and presentations
View previous HDR Orientation recordings and presentations to help prepare for your research study at Curtin.