The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate should uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas. The doctoral research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems. Subject to and in accordance with Curtin’s Rule 10: Degree of Doctor by Research, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree shall be awarded for a thesis (as defined in regulations) or a combination of a thesis and coursework in which the coursework component does not exceed one-third of the total doctoral degree program. In all cases the thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field and demonstrate the capacity of the candidate to conceive, design and complete independent research.

A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

Throughout your studies, our faculties will provide you with access to equipment and resources to support your research, and financial assistance to attend appropriate local and international conferences.

For admission to a Doctoral degree program an applicant normally shall have satisfied the Faculty Graduate Studies Committee (in respect of paragraphs (a), (b) (c), (e) or (f)) or the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training (in respect of paragraph (d)) that at least one of the following eligibility criteria has been met:

1. graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Master within the University which requires the completion of a publicly available thesis or research project to an acceptable standard;
2. graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor with First Class Honours or Upper Second Class Honours within the University;
3. graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor and completed a Postgraduate Diploma or its equivalent, or completed a Master’s degree by Coursework, with, in both cases, a course-weighted average of not less than seventy percent within the University, and demonstrated the capacity to undertake significant research;
4. in exceptional circumstances: o graduated with or qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor; o has substantial: ? relevant peer-reviewed publications or conference papers, or exhibitions; and/or ? research experience; and o demonstrated the capacity to undertake significant research;
5. obtained qualifications from another institution which are recognised by tertiary admission authorities in Australia and which are deemed to be equivalent to, or a satisfactory substitute for, any of the qualifications prescribed in Section 3(a), (b), (c) or (d); or
6. enrolled in a research Master’s degree for the equivalent of at least six months full-time, and shown exceptional ability in the conduct of the early stages of the research project which is clearly capable of being extended and converted to Doctoral level. Conversion of enrolment from Master’s to a Doctoral program requires the approval of the Faculty Graduate Studies Committee.