Doctor of Philosophy (Human Communication Science) Research (CRICOS course code 043962E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This research-intensive program is at AQF Level 10 in the field of Rehabilitation Therapies, specifically Speech Pathology. Designed for candidates seeking to contribute original knowledge to human communication science, the course is registered on CRICOS (provider 00301J), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international students. With an indicative total cost of A$146,600 and located at Curtin University’s Bentley campus in Perth, WA, this degree offers a pathway to advanced research careers. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. Always consult Curtin University for the most current details.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Doctor of Philosophy (Human Communication Science) Research (CRICOS course code 043962E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This course falls under the field of education 061707 - Speech Pathology, within the broader health discipline. As a doctoral research degree, it requires candidates to undertake a significant research project culminating in a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The program is ideal for students aiming for careers in academia, research institutions, or advanced clinical practice in communication sciences. Curtin University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS registration 00301J, providing access to Australia's robust education quality framework under the ESOS Act. International students benefit from legal protections, including tuition assurance and complaint handling. Perth, where Curtin's Bentley campus is located, is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community.
While specific research topics vary, doctoral candidates in Human Communication Science typically engage in advanced study of speech, language, hearing, and communication disorders. The program emphasizes research methodology, critical analysis, and independent investigation. Graduates develop expertise in designing and executing studies that address complex clinical or theoretical questions. This field combines elements of health sciences, linguistics, and psychology. Given the research focus, candidates work closely with supervisors and may have opportunities to publish findings. The course is classified under AQF Level 10, indicating the highest level of academic achievement. Note that this is a general description; for precise curriculum details, refer to Curtin University's official information.
The CRICOS register lists the duration of this course as 4 years (208 weeks). Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual qualification. Full-time study is expected to complete the research and thesis within this timeframe. Part-time options may be available but are subject to visa conditions. The language requirement ensures students can engage fully with academic literature, supervision, and thesis writing. Candidates should be prepared for a long-term commitment to independent research.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Human Communication Science) Research are indicative at A$145,600, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling an estimated A$146,600. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Curtin University. They are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider. Additional costs NOT included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (indicative weekly rent in Perth: A$250–$400, groceries: A$70–$90, transport: A$30–$50), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For current fees, visit Curtin University's website at www.curtin.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees.
Admission to a Doctoral Degree typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree in a relevant field. For this course, an English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) is expected. Students must demonstrate research capability, often through a research proposal or previous thesis. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; however, applicants may consider pre-research programs or bridging courses offered by some institutions. Always consult Curtin University for specific entry criteria. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research degree focused on academic dissertation. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course curriculum.
The course is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, WA. Bentley is a suburb approximately 6 kilometres south of Perth's central business district. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, has a population of over 2 million and is known for its sunny climate and strong economy. The city hosts more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse range of courses. Curtin’s Bentley campus is accessible by public transport, including bus routes and a train station nearby. The campus has a large international student community. For location-specific context, Perth's student population exceeds 50,000, and living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and provides work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Important requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses applications. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Doctor of Philosophy (Human Communication Science) Research at Curtin University. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses and providers. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check Curtin University's entry requirements (including English test scores and research proposal), prepare documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you accept the offer, apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Perth offers a unique study experience with a balanced lifestyle. Known for its beaches, parks, and multicultural environment, it is one of Australia's most affordable capital cities. The student community is welcoming, with many support services for international students. Curtin University’s Bentley campus is well-equipped with research facilities. Consider that Perth is geographically isolated, which may affect travel costs for home visits. However, the city's strong job market and growing technology sector provide opportunities for post-study work. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, including top universities, Perth is a solid choice for doctoral studies in health sciences.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered courses and providers at HeadStart Academy — free, no strings attached.
Doctor of Philosophy (Human Communication Science) 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.