Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research (CRICOS course code 006093G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This elite research program, classified under AQF Level 10, allows students to investigate complex business and management problems through rigorous scholarly inquiry. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00301J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring ESOS Act protections and quality assurance. Studying at Curtin University's main campus in Bentley, Western Australia, students join a vibrant research community with access to world-class facilities and expert supervisors. The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research is designed for those seeking to make significant contributions to knowledge in fields like business management, organisational behaviour, and strategic leadership. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available across Australia, this program stands out as a premier option for doctoral candidates serious about advancing their careers in academia or industry. Students benefit from Curtin's strong industry links and research centres, preparing them for leadership roles globally. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource using official CRICOS data (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research (CRICOS course code 006093G) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Curtin University, a public Government university established in 1966. The course falls under Field of Education 080301 - Business Management (Broad Field 08 - Management and Commerce). This program is ideal for students who wish to undertake substantial independent research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field of business and management. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00301J), it meets the requirements for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights are protected. You'll join Curtin's respected Faculty of Business and Law, known for its strong industry connections and research output. The degree typically leads to careers in academia, corporate research, consultancy, or senior management roles. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses; this doctoral program is one of the most rigorous and rewarding.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research focuses on advanced research methodologies and original inquiry within business management. Students will develop expertise in designing and executing research projects, analysing complex data, and communicating findings to academic and professional audiences. While the exact syllabus varies by supervisor and research topic, typical areas of study include strategic management, organisational theory, marketing, finance, human resources, and international business. The degree emphasises critical thinking, scholarly writing, and the ability to challenge existing paradigms. Graduates emerge as independent researchers capable of driving innovation in both academic and practical settings. The program does not include coursework components; it is entirely research-based, requiring a thesis of approximately 80,000-100,000 words. This structure allows deep immersion in a specific area, making it ideal for those with a clear research vision.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). Study is conducted full-time in English and leads to a single qualification (no dual award). The program is delivered on-campus at Curtin's Bentley campus, though some research activities may be conducted off-site with supervisory approval. Curtin also offers part-time options for domestic students, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. The language of instruction is English, reflecting the global nature of business research. As this is a single qualification, no foundation studies or VET National Code applies.
Course fees shown are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and set by Curtin University. The indicative tuition fee for Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research is A$148,600 for the full 4-year program (approximately A$37,150 per year). Additionally, non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the total estimated cost to A$149,600. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$600-2,000 per year depending on coverage), living expenses of around A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs indicative), and the visa application fee of A$1,600 (as of 2024). For the most current fees and any scholarships, always visit Curtin University's official website: www.curtin.edu.au.
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research typically requires a Master's degree (by research) or a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours (or equivalent) in a relevant business discipline. Applicants must demonstrate strong research potential through previous research experience or a research proposal. English language proficiency is essential: Curtin generally requires an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5-7.0 overall (no band less than 6.5). Other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Some candidates may need to complete a research proposal or interview as part of the application. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level; however, if you do not meet the direct entry requirements, consider a Master by Research or Graduate Diploma as a stepping stone. Always verify exact requirements with Curtin University, as they may change. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa-related queries.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work can provide valuable industry experience and supplement living costs. Curtin's career services can assist in finding part-time opportunities in Perth, which has a strong job market in business and research sectors.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley Campus, located in Bentley, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Perth is the capital of WA and home to over 30,000 international students. The Bentley campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and the Curtin University bus station, with frequent services to the city centre (approximately 15 minutes by bus). Bentley offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with student accommodation options ranging from on-campus colleges (like St Catherine's and Vickery House) to private rentals (indicated weekly rent: A$200-400 for shared housing). The city's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with groceries around A$80-150 per week and public transport capped at A$10 per day. Perth boasts a sunny climate, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to stunning beaches and national parks.
To study Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research in Australia, you will need a Student Visa (subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel, and maintain valid OSHC for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. As a PhD student, you may be eligible for a streamlined visa processing due to the research nature. Remember, student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Western Australia offers a unique environment for doctoral study. With only 5 public universities, the state provides a close-knit academic community and strong industry collaboration opportunities in sectors like mining, energy, and technology. Perth's cost of living is manageable, and the city is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable. The PhD student community is supportive, with regular research seminars and networking events. However, consider the distance from other Australian cities and international travel hubs. If you value a balance of high-quality research, outdoor lifestyle, and lower living costs, WA could be an excellent choice. HeadStart Academy's data shows there are over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in WA, offering numerous doctoral programs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research at Curtin University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Business and Management), and location (Western Australia). Identify Curtin University and confirm the course details.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0). Check Curtin's application deadlines (usually rolling intake for PhDs) and submit your application online at curtin.edu.au. You may need to identify a potential supervisor before applying.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Curtin will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Obtain your visa and plan your arrival in Perth.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Apply now to Curtin University's Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research and take the next step in your academic career.
Doctor of Philosophy (Business) Research is a CRICOS-registered programme at Curtin University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.