Doctor of Philosophy (Information Systems) Research (CRICOS course code 043991M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This course, registered under CRICOS provider code 00301J, is designed for international students seeking to undertake original research in information systems. As a doctoral-level program (AQF Level 10), it equips graduates with advanced skills to contribute to the field through independent investigation and scholarly output. Curtin University, a government-owned institution based in Bentley, Western Australia, is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness. This page provides an overview of fees, entry requirements, and student visa considerations for this specific course. Remember, all fees are indicative and set by the institution—always confirm directly with Curtin University.
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This doctoral program falls under the field of Information Technology, specifically Information Systems (Field of Education code 020399). Students engage in advanced research that contributes new knowledge to the discipline, typically culminating in a thesis. Areas of focus may include systems analysis, database management, human-computer interaction, or organisational information systems. The course is research-intensive, with no taught coursework components, and requires students to work closely with a supervisory panel. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, or high-level industry roles requiring analytical and problem-solving expertise. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring the quality of education and consumer rights.
According to the CRICOS register, the duration of Doctor of Philosophy (Information Systems) Research is 4 years, equivalent to 208 weeks. The course is delivered in English with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. It is a single qualification (Doctoral Degree) with no VET national code as it is a higher education program. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at Curtin University's Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia. The standard study load and research milestones are defined by the university. Note that this course does not include a mandatory work component, so students should plan their finances accordingly.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$145,600 for the full 4-year duration. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,000, making the estimated total A$146,600. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always visit the Curtin University website at www.curtin.edu.au. International students should also budget for living costs in Perth—indicative weekly expenses may include rent (A$300–$500), groceries (A$80–$150), and public transport (A$40–$60). ESOS protections ensure fee transparency and refund policies.
Entry into a Doctor of Philosophy program typically requires a prior qualification at the Masters level or a Bachelor's degree with honours. For international students, English proficiency is assessed via tests such as IELTS, with an overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 commonly required by Curtin University. Specific academic requirements may vary; prospective students should check the university's website for detailed prerequisites. Foundation or pathway options are not directly associated with this course, but Curtin College may offer preparatory programs for related fields. Always confirm entry criteria directly with Curtin University, as HeadStart Academy does not provide admission decisions. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee entry due to competitive selection.
This course has no work component. It does not include mandatory internships, placements, or work-integrated learning. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs but should not be relied upon for tuition.
Doctor of Philosophy (Information Systems) Research is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, Western Australia. Bentley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses, and its student population exceeds 200,000. The Bentley campus is accessible via public transport, including buses and the nearby Curtin University bus station. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around A$350–$450. International students can enjoy a vibrant multicultural environment and proximity to beaches and parks.
International students enrolled in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from Curtin University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of study, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions also include maintaining enrolment and satisfactory course progress. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy (Information Systems) Research at Curtin University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Doctoral Degree), field (Information Systems), and location (Western Australia). Verify that the course and provider are CRICOS-registered for international student enrolment.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Curtin University's website to review full entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), academic transcripts, research proposal, and application deadlines. Submit your application online through the university's portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once Curtin University offers you a place and you accept, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview. For visa assistance, contact a MARA-registered agent.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, strong economy, and diverse natural attractions. Perth, the state capital, is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers including Curtin University, University of Western Australia, and Murdoch University. The cost of living is moderate compared to eastern states, with indicative weekly expenses around A$400–$600 for rent, food, and transport. Public transport includes buses, trains, and ferries, with student discounts available. The state's economy is driven by mining, resources, and technology sectors, which may offer post-study employment opportunities. However, consider the distance from other Australian cities and the time zone difference. For a research degree like a PhD, the supportive research environment and supervision quality are key factors to research further.
Ready to start your PhD journey? Explore Curtin University's application process today.
Doctor of Philosophy (Information Systems) 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.