Doctorate by research
- Qualification Doctor of Philosophy - Computing
The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) Code indicates a registered program offered to international students studying in Australia on student visas.
The Curtin campuses or teaching locations where units of this course are offered.
As a doctoral research degree candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems.
A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.
Throughout your studies, our faculties will provide you with access to equipment and resources to support your research, and financial assistance to attend appropriate local and international conferences.
Please refer to the handbook for additional course overview information.
Why research at Curtin
Curtin is widely recognised for applied research firmly focused on solving real-world problems. Underpinning our research endeavours are strong partnerships with industry, business and government, which result in outcomes that greatly benefit the broader community locally, nationally and globally. Our international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures our graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields.
What you'll learn
- demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that knowledge and their practice
- think critically, evaluate existing knowledge and ideas, undertake systematic investigation and reflect on theory and practice to generate original knowledge
- apply expert creative, technical and professional skills to the field of work or learning
- explain and critique theoretical propositions, methodologies and conclusions
- present a complex investigation of originality or original research for external examination against international standards
- communicate complex research concepts, plans and outcomes to the general community, peers and the national and international research community
- design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice
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Professional recognition
Depending on your area of speciality, you may be eligible for membership of various professional organisations upon graduation.
Admission criteria
What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.
Entry requirements for Australian and New Zealand students
Applicants are required to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training and ability to pursue the proposed research course. Generally, this may be a master degree or bachelor degree with first or upper second class honours. See the Section 3.2.1 of the HDR admission policy for detailed information.
English requirements
Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.
You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications .
IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)
Overall band score
Use your experience to get credit towards your degree
Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.
Fees and charges
Fee information is not available for this course at this time. Find estimated course fees .
Looking for more detail on the course structure?
For start dates, please view the academic calendar .
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The University reserves the right to withdraw any unit of study or program which it offers, to impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or program, and/or to vary arrangements for any program.
How to apply
Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice
- Curtin Perth
Please note that each campus has different application deadlines. View our application deadlines page for further information.
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The information on this page may be subject to change. In particular, Curtin University may change the content, method or location of delivery or tuition fees of courses.
While Curtin uses reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided on this page is accurate and up to date, errors and omissions sometimes occur. Curtin makes no warranty, representation or undertaking (expressed or implied) nor does it assume any legal liability (direct or indirect) for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information.
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- Curtin course code: DR-COMPTG
- CRICOS code: 043987G
- Last updated on: 12 November 2024
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- Programs and Courses
Doctor of Philosophy, School of Computing
A single four year research award offered by the School of Computing
- Length 4 year full-time
- Minimum 192 Units
- Academic plan 9714XPHD
- Post Nominal PhD
- CRICOS code 114814C
- Computer Science
- STEM Program
- Alex Potanin
- Admission & Fees
- Introduction
Career Options
Learning outcomes, admission requirements, scholarships.
- Indicative Fees
Program Requirements
The Doctor of Philosophy requires the submission and successful examination of a thesis of up to 100,000 words on an approved topic.
Completion of a standard program for a Doctor of Philosophy requires a minimum of 96 units and a maximum of 192 units of enrolment in the research component.
To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy program you should have completed a relevant four-year undergraduate degree from an eligible university, or a postgraduate qualification with a significant research thesis component. There must be a supervisor within the ANU School of Computing who is available and willing to supervise your research, and you must have identified a research project.
Admission to a Doctor of Philosophy degree at ANU requires:
1. An Australian Bachelor degree with at least Second Class Honours - Upper (First Class Honours is often required) or its international equivalent, or
2. Another degree with a significant research/thesis component that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1), or
3. A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience related to the field of study that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1).
All applicants must meet the University’s English Language Admission Requirements for Students .
You may be eligible for admission if you can demonstrate that you have significant research experience and a background equivalent to these qualifications.
The ANU School of Computing x encourages prospective students to take a self assessment test to determine their suitability for admission/scholarship before completing the pre-application process .
If you think you might qualify, you can also check out our guide on how to apply .
Indicative fees
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
For further information on International Tuition Fees see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/international-tuition-fees
Fee Information
All students are required to pay the Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)@
The annual indicative fee provides an estimate of the program tuition fees for international students and domestic students (where applicable). The annual indicative fee for a program is based on the standard full-time enrolment load of 48 units per year (unless the program duration is less than 48 units). Fees for courses vary by discipline meaning that the fees for a program can vary depending on the courses selected. Course fees are reviewed on an annual basis and typically will increase from year to year. The tuition fees payable are dependent on the year of commencement and the courses selected and are subject to increase during the period of study.
For further information on Fees and Payment please see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.@
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Exceptional research degrees at ANU
The Australian National University provides PhD students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support .
As a PhD student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.
ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.
We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.
- critically analyse, synthesise and evaluate complex information in a specific area of the discipline relevant to their research;
- formulate a research plan and undertake independent research to address specific research questions that make a substantial contribution to knowledge;
- ensure that research is carried out with integrity and actively promote responsible conduct of research;
- develop, adapt and implement research methodologies relevant to their research questions;
- demonstrate expert technical and/or specialist skills relevant to their research focus;
- communicate effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences in both written and oral form;
- demonstrate appropriate collegial and professional behaviour, and safe working practices as required by their specific research focus.
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