Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) Research (CRICOS course code 043997E) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Curtin University over 4 years. This program is designed for students who want to pursue advanced research in occupational therapy, contributing to the evidence base that underpins rehabilitation therapies. Australia boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this PhD is one of the many high-quality research options available. Curtin University, a government-funded institution with CRICOS 00301J, is located in Perth, Western Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Curtin is authorised to enrol international students under the ESOS Act, ensuring your legal protections. This page provides an in-depth look at the course fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathway for this doctoral program.
Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) Research (CRICOS course code 043997E) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by Curtin University over 4 years (208 weeks). The course falls under the field of Education: 06 - Health → 0617 - Rehabilitation Therapies → 061703 - Occupational Therapy. This is a research-intensive program where candidates undertake a substantial research project leading to a thesis. As a doctoral candidate, you will develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. The program is offered in English with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. It does not include a mandatory work component, but you may have opportunities for teaching or research assistance. The course is delivered at Curtin University's main campus in Bentley, Western Australia. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
This doctoral program deepens your understanding of occupational therapy theory and practice through original research. You will engage in a supervised research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of rehabilitation therapies. Common areas of investigation include interventions for disability, mental health, aging, and community participation. The course prepares graduates for academic, clinical, and policy leadership roles. As a research degree, you will complete a thesis of approximately 80,000–100,000 words, along with a confirmation seminar and final oral defence. The program also includes training in research ethics, data analysis, and communication. This is a general description of what doctoral students typically study in this field; specific topics are determined by your supervisor and research proposal.
The CRICOS register lists this doctoral program with a duration of 4 years, equating to 208 weeks of study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification only (no dual degree). There is no foundation studies component. Full-time enrolment is expected, although part-time options may be available in consultation with Curtin University. The program is research-focused, meaning structured coursework is minimal beyond initial training units. Students are expected to work independently under the guidance of a supervisory panel. The 4-year duration is indicative; actual completion time varies.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) Research are set by Curtin University and listed as indicative on the CRICOS register: A$163,200 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are approximately A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$164,200. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), or the visa application charge. For international students in Perth, indicative weekly costs are: rent A$300–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$40–$70 (with student concessions). Always check Curtin University’s official website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
Entry into a doctoral program typically requires a prior qualification at a master’s level (by research) or a bachelor’s degree with honours (first class or upper second class) in a relevant field such as occupational therapy, health sciences, or rehabilitation. Curtin University may also consider applicants with significant research experience. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0–6.5, depending on the institution). Some candidates may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet the minimum entry standards. However, this course has no foundation studies component listed. For precise requirements, consult Curtin University’s website or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) Research has no mandatory work component. Unlike some coursework degrees, this research program does not include a professional placement or internship. However, doctoral candidates may seek casual teaching or research assistant roles within the university, subject to visa work limitations. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain experience and offset living costs.
This course is delivered at Curtin University's main campus in Bentley, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Curtin's Bentley campus is well-connected by public transport, with bus routes and the Curtin University bus station providing direct access to the Perth CBD. Perth is home to over 200,000 international students and has several CRICOS-registered providers offering similar doctoral programs. The city offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Studying in Western Australia gives you access to a growing health sector and research networks. Delivery is on-campus and full-time; there is no online or distance option listed for this specific CRICOS course.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies (up to 5 years for a PhD). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which assesses your intention to stay temporarily. You will also need to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year), and travel. Your family members may accompany you on a dependent visa. You are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees are safeguarded. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) Research at Curtin University involves three steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers: use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level and field, ensuring the provider is CRICOS-registered. Curtin University (CRICOS 00301J) is a trusted government provider. Second, apply directly to your chosen institution: review entry requirements (including English test scores and research proposal), prepare your documents, and submit your application through Curtin’s online portal. Check application deadlines as they vary by intake. Third, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have a CoE, you can lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Include all required documents: passport, CoE, proof of English, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that does not charge referral fees.
Western Australia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a growing economy. Perth, the state capital, has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–$500. Public transport includes buses, trains, and ferries, with a student concession card reducing fares. The state has a strong focus on mining, health, and education sectors, providing research collaboration opportunities. If you prefer a quieter, less crowded city with access to beaches and national parks, WA could be ideal. However, consider that flying back to your home country may be more expensive and time-consuming. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses across all Australian states.
Ready to apply? Check CRICOS registration and contact Curtin University for current entry requirements and fees.
Doctor of Philosophy (Occupational Therapy) 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.