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.
Doctor of Sustainable Development (DrSUSDEV)
Develop a critical understanding of the complex issues that lay at the frontier of sustainable development, from an inter-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary context.
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.
Discovery begins with Curtin research

While we can’t predict the future, we do know that research at Curtin is working towards making tomorrow better.
Find out more by exploring Curtin research
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
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Help is at hand
Graduate Research School
See our frequently asked questions or get in touch with us below.
- What is the difference between postgraduate coursework and research programs?
- What are my responsibilities if I am a sponsored HDR student or a HDR scholarship holder?
- Can I attend Orientation Week (O-Week) on campus if I am studying online?
- How do I find out the status of my application for a higher degree by research?
- Browse all FAQs
- Address:
- Building 101, level 1, Curtin Perth, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102.