Overview

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 also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research. The Doctor of Philosophy - Human Communication Science programme is offered at Curtin University .

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.

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Programme Structure

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

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Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-04-27 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-07-09 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-02-16 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-24 00:00:00 , International

More details

Early Submission Countries: applications close 20 weeks before course start. For all other countries, applications close 12 weeks before the course start date.

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

79

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PTE Academic

58

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IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Perth, Australia

Disciplines

Communication Studies Philosophy

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

79

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

58

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

CRICOS 043962E

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.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Curtin University and/or in Australia, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

36400 AUD / year

≈ 36400 AUD / year

Living costs

Perth

Australia

1328 - 2367 AUD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Check for any work restrictions

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Doctor of Philosophy - Human Communication Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Why research at Curtin

Get more details

Programme Structure

Check out the full curriculum

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

Explore more key information

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure you meet all requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Living costs

Perth

Funding

Check for any work restrictions

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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