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Higher degree by research

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.

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.

Collaborative PhD program

The Collaborative PhD is a prestigious program where research students are co-supervised by academics from Curtin University and one of Curtin’s international partner institutions.

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.