Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) Research (CRICOS course code 043965B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program is designed for students seeking to undertake advanced research in psychology within Australia's premier higher education framework. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00301J), international students benefit from ESOS Act protections and access to Australia's world-class research environment. With a tuition fee of A$163,200 and non-tuition costs of A$1,000, this degree represents a significant investment in your academic future. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — no referral fees, just trustworthy data to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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This Doctoral Degree falls under the field of Behavioural Science (Psychology) within the Society and Culture discipline. At AQF Level 10, graduates are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of psychology. Research skills include designing and executing independent research that contributes new knowledge to the discipline. While specific curriculum details are set by Curtin University, typical psychology PhD programs involve advanced coursework in research methodology, statistical analysis, and specialised seminars, culminating in a thesis of original research. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it a global leader in international education. Studying in Western Australia places you in a rapidly growing research hub with strong industry connections.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). Instruction is delivered entirely in English. This is a single qualification — no dual degree or foundation studies component. Full-time on-campus study is expected, though research degrees may involve flexible arrangements. Curtin University's Bentley campus in Perth provides modern facilities including dedicated research labs and library resources. The duration is indicative and may vary depending on research progress and thesis completion. International students should ensure they maintain valid enrolment for the entire period to comply with Student Visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) Research are A$163,200 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and materials) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the total to A$164,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Important: these costs do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application fees. For current fees, always check Curtin University's official website. As a guide, living costs in Perth range from A$1,500 to A$2,500 per month, including rent (A$200–$400/week), groceries (A$80–$150/week), and public transport (A$30–$50/week). OSHC typically costs around A$600–$1,000 per year depending on the provider.
General entry requirements for this Doctoral Degree include an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent), demonstrating English proficiency. Applicants typically need to hold a relevant Bachelor's degree with Honours or a Master's degree in psychology or a closely related field. Some prior research experience or a research proposal may be required. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not directly applicable to this level; however, if you do not meet academic requirements, consider a Graduate Diploma or Master's first. Curtin University sets specific prerequisites — always consult the provider for detailed entry criteria. Remember, meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
There is no mandatory work component included in this course. However, Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain valuable professional experience and offset living costs. Many psychology research students also participate in supervised teaching or research assistant roles within the university. Always check your visa conditions and ensure work does not compromise your academic progress.
This course is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, located in the suburb of Bentley, approximately 6 km southeast of Perth city centre. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, has a student population of over 150,000 international students, supported by more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,000 courses. Bentley campus is accessible via public transport (bus routes 34, 72, and 75) and features on-campus accommodation, libraries, and research centres. Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a strong economy, affordable living costs, and proximity to natural attractions. Before choosing, consider factors like climate, industry connections, and lifestyle.
International students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin University, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and health insurance (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. You may work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Visa conditions are subject to change — always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for individual guidance. Australian law protects international students under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) Research at Curtin University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find doctoral degrees in psychology across Australia. Filter by level, location, and provider to shortlist Curtin University. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check Curtin's entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents then submit an online application. 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. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
Ready to take the next step? Explore how to apply to Curtin University and start your journey towards a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology.
Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) 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.