Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) Research (CRICOS course code 043959M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international education. As a doctoral-level program (AQF Level 10), it is designed for graduates seeking to make a significant original contribution to knowledge in the humanities. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. Please note that course fees are indicative and subject to change; always confirm directly with Curtin University before applying.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) Research (CRICOS 043959M) is a full-time doctoral program offered by Curtin University (CRICOS 00301J), a government-funded university based in Western Australia. The course falls under the field of education '0903 - Studies in Human Society', covering advanced research in areas such as sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, history, and political science. As a research doctorate, students are expected to produce a substantial thesis that demonstrates independent critical thinking and contributes new knowledge to the humanities discipline. Curtin University is one of Australia's largest universities, with a strong reputation for research and international collaboration. The course is delivered at its Bentley campus in Perth, a city with a vibrant student community and a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions.
While specific syllabus details are set by Curtin University, doctoral programs in humanities at this level typically involve: advanced research methodology training, literature review and critical analysis, independent research under supervision, and the production of a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words. Graduates develop skills in data collection, analysis, academic writing, project management, and scholarly communication. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, government, and the private sector where high-level analytical and problem-solving abilities are valued.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). This is a full-time doctoral program. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to commit to full-time research, with regular progress reviews. Curtin University may offer part-time options for domestic students, but international student visa conditions generally require full-time enrolment.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) Research are indicative at A$145,600 for the full program (based on 4 years of study). Non-tuition fees (such as student services, library access, etc.) are estimated at A$1,000, making a total estimated cost of A$146,600. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. You should check Curtin University's website for the most current fees. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover; living expenses — estimated at A$21,041 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines); and the student visa application charge (currently A$710, subject to change).
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency: the CRICOS register indicates an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. However, doctoral programs typically require a higher level (e.g., IELTS 7.0). For academic entry, a Master's degree or Bachelor's degree with Honours (AQF level 8) is usually expected, along with a research proposal and supervisor approval. Curtin University may offer pathway options such as a Master by Research or graduate certificate in research methods. Contact the university directly for specific requirements. All CRICOS-registered providers are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality standards.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) Research is delivered at Curtin University's main campus: Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, WA. Bentley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is home to over 2 million people and has a large international student population (over 50,000 students across multiple institutions). The city is known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and affordable cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Public transport to Curtin's Bentley campus is accessible via bus routes and the nearby Curtin Stadium bus station. The campus is about 10 km from the Perth CBD.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: provide evidence of enrolment (CoE), meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents (if applicable) may have work rights. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Perth offers a relaxed lifestyle with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Typical weekly expenses: rent (shared) ~A$200–A$350, groceries ~A$80–A$120, public transport ~A$40–A$60 (with student concession). The city has over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Curtin University has a strong research culture and excellent facilities. Consider your preference for climate, cultural diversity, and proximity to Asia (shorter flight times to many Asian capitals). For humanities research, Perth's archives and museums provide rich resources, especially for Australian and Indigenous studies.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) Research at Curtin University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (0903 - Studies in Human Society), and location (WA). Confirm the CRICOS registration status of Curtin University (00301J) and this specific course (043959M).
2. **Apply directly to Curtin University** — Submit an online application through Curtin's international admissions portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, CV, and referee reports. Check application deadlines (typically no strict deadlines for PhDs, but apply at least 3–4 months before intended start).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once Curtin offers a place and you accept, you will receive a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and GTE evidence. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered doctoral courses or contact Curtin University directly.
Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities) 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.