Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) (CRICOS course code 061497J) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Curtin University over 2 years. This research-intensive program sits at AQF Level 9 and focuses on structural engineering, a sub-field of civil engineering dealing with the design and analysis of structures that support or resist loads. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00301J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Curtin University, a public university 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. Whether you are exploring postgraduate research options in engineering or specifically searching for 'Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) Curtin', this page gives you the essential facts: indicative fees, duration, delivery locations, visa pathways, and entry requirements. Always verify current details directly with Curtin University before applying.
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Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) is classified under the field of education 030903 - Structural Engineering (Broad Field 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies). This research degree requires students to undertake a supervised research project culminating in a thesis. Typical areas of study include advanced structural analysis, structural dynamics, earthquake engineering, steel and concrete structures, and finite element modelling. While the exact syllabus is set by Curtin University, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate the ability to plan and execute a substantial piece of original research, critically evaluate literature, and communicate complex engineering concepts. Australia's strong engineering sector means research in structural engineering can lead to careers in construction, infrastructure, mining, and consulting. With Perth's growing urban development, Curtin University's Bentley campus provides a hub for research collaboration with industry partners including government agencies and engineering firms.
According to the CRICOS register, Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies component. The course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, students are expected to dedicate significant time to their project, often including lab work, field studies, or computational modelling. Curtin University may offer part-time options for domestic students, but international student visa (Subclass 500) conditions generally require full-time enrolment. Always check with Curtin for the latest study mode options.
The indicative total tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) is A$76,000. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fee) amount to approximately A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$77,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Curtin University. Fees are subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. The following are NOT included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — compulsory health insurance for international students on a student visa, living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for Subclass 500. For a single student, the Australian Government recommends budgeting A$21,041 per year for living costs (from 1 July 2025). In Perth, indicative weekly costs: rent A$200–400 (shared or studio), groceries A$70–100, public transport A$30–50. For current fees and scholarships, visit Curtin University's website at www.curtin.edu.au.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) are set by Curtin University. Generally, a research master’s requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., civil engineering, structural engineering) with a high level of academic achievement (usually a GPA of 5.0 out of 7.0 or equivalent). Some providers may also require a research proposal or evidence of research experience. English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Degree (Research), an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent is common. Curtin University accepts IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English. If you do not meet English requirements, pathway options (e.g., an English language course) may be available. Always refer to Curtin's official entry requirements page or contact their admissions team.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as a research student, you may have opportunities to engage in paid research assistant roles or tutoring within the university, subject to visa conditions. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All rights under the ESOS Act apply.
Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, WA. Bentley is a suburb 6 kilometres south-east of Perth's central business district. The campus is well-served by public transport: bus routes and the Perth rail network connect to Curtin's bus station. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is home to over 1.6 million residents and has a growing international student population. There are hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers in Western Australia, offering courses across all levels. The cost of living in Perth is generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne, with share accommodation ranging from A$200–350 per week. Curtin's Bentley campus features modern research facilities, including engineering labs, a library, and student support services.
To study Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) as an international student in Australia, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin University, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover). As of 2025, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (approx.). Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependent family members may also have work rights. As a research degree, the duration of stay on visa will be the course duration plus a standard buffer. ESOS Act protections safeguard international students' rights, including refund policies and complaints processes. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Perth offers a unique study experience: a relaxed lifestyle, strong economy tied to resources and engineering, and a multicultural community. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Western Australia, you can find courses across all levels. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Public transport includes buses, trains, and the CAT bus network free in the city. For engineering research, Perth provides opportunities to collaborate with mining, oil and gas, and infrastructure companies. However, the cost of living has been rising. On average, a single person needs about A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. If you're considering a research degree in structural engineering, Curtin University's Bentley campus is a strong choice, especially if you prefer a campus-based environment with dedicated research facilities.
Follow these three steps specifically for Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) at Curtin University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Curtin University (CRICOS 00301J) and this course (061497J) are registered. Compare entry requirements, fees, and research areas. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (if required), a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Check Curtin's application deadlines — research degrees often allow rolling intakes. Submit your application through Curtin's online portal. 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 online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC, sufficient funds, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Start by confirming your eligibility on Curtin University's official website. For more guidance on student visas and choosing a research degree, explore HeadStart Academy's resources.
All Masters Degree (Research) courses in Western Australia →
Master of Philosophy (Civil Engineering) 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.