Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research (CRICOS course code 006095F) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This research-focused program prepares students for advanced careers in petroleum engineering, mining engineering, and related fields, equipping graduates with the skills to lead innovation in the energy sector. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00301J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Curtin University is a public institution based in Perth, Western Australia, with a strong reputation for engineering research. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have accurate information to plan your study journey.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research (CRICOS course code 006095F) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Curtin University over 4 years (208 weeks). The course falls under the field of Engineering and Related Technologies (0303 – Process and Resources Engineering, specifically Mining Engineering). This research doctorate requires students to undertake a substantial original research project, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the discipline of petroleum engineering. Curtin University is a government-owned institution with a strong focus on industry engagement, particularly in Western Australia’s resource sector. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00301J), Curtin can enrol international students under the ESOS Act protections. The course is delivered in English and does not include a work component or foundation studies. It is a single qualification with no dual award.
As a Doctoral Degree in Petroleum Engineering Research, the program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in areas such as reservoir engineering, drilling technology, production optimisation, and sustainable resource extraction. Students will develop critical thinking, advanced analytical skills, and the ability to design and execute independent research projects. The curriculum typically involves coursework in research methodology, followed by a major thesis. Graduates emerge as experts capable of solving complex engineering problems and contributing to technological advancements in the oil and gas industry. The field of Mining Engineering (030303) covers a broad range of topics including mineral resource estimation, mine planning, geotechnical engineering, and environmental management. This course specifically focuses on petroleum engineering, which applies engineering principles to the extraction of oil and gas.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research is registered on the CRICOS register with a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time research program delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Students are expected to be on campus at Curtin University's Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia. The language of instruction is English, and all assessments and the thesis must be submitted in English. The course is classified as a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) and is designed for students who have already completed a relevant Master's degree or equivalent. There is no work component included in this course, but students may be able to undertake casual work under their student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for the Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition fee is A$152,000 for the full 4-year program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$1,000. The estimated total cost is A$153,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in these figures. As a guide, living costs in Perth are around A$25,000 to A$30,000 per year, covering rent (approx. A$300–A$500 per week), groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Curtin University at www.curtin.edu.au, as fees are subject to change.
Admission to a Doctoral Degree typically requires completion of a Master's degree (AQF Level 9) with a research component, or a Bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) with demonstrated research capability. Some providers may accept equivalent qualifications or extensive professional experience. English language proficiency is usually required with an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent). For this course, a background in petroleum engineering, mining engineering, or a closely related field is expected. Curtin University may also require a research proposal and supervisory endorsement. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; however, students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider a Graduate Certificate or Master's by coursework as a pathway. Always check the specific entry requirements on the Curtin website or contact their admissions office.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with course progress. It is important to note that work rights are subject to visa conditions and may change. For detailed information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered migration agent for personalised guidance.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research is delivered at Curtin University of Technology – Bentley campus, located in Bentley, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and has a population of over 2 million. The city is known for its vibrant student community and strong ties to the mining and energy sectors. There are over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in Perth, offering a wide range of courses. The Bentley campus is well-served by public transport, with bus routes connecting to the Perth CBD and other suburbs. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–A$500. The campus offers state-of-the-art research facilities and is close to the Perth central business district.
International students enrolled in this Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research at Curtin University are eligible to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to refunds and support services. For visa application details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a MARA-registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Engineering – Petroleum), and location (Western Australia). Compare providers and ensure they are registered (Curtin University is CRICOS 00301J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Curtin University website to review entry requirements, English language test scores (IELTS 6.5–7.0), research proposal guidelines, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents, including transcripts, CV, and research outline. 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 apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you also arrange OSHC and demonstrate genuine temporary stay intention.
Western Australia is Australia's largest state and a global hub for mining and petroleum industries. Choosing to study a PhD in Petroleum Engineering here means direct access to industry partners, research facilities, and potential career opportunities. Perth, where Curtin University is located, has a strong economy driven by resources, and the state government supports innovation in energy. However, the cost of living in Perth can be high, and students should budget for accommodation, transport, and healthcare. The research environment is competitive, so ensure you have a clear research proposal and a potential supervisor. Western Australia is also geographically isolated, but public transport and international flights are easily accessible. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, you have many options, but Curtin's specialisation in petroleum engineering makes it a top choice.
Ready to start your Doctor of Philosophy in Petroleum Engineering? Contact Curtin University or begin your application today at headstartacademy.com.au.
Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) 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.