Course Overview

About This Course

The Doctor of Philosophy is the University's research award and is the standard pre-requisite for a career in research or academia. A PhD comprises an independent, supervised research project mutually agreed upon by the student, their supervisors and the Head of School. The PhD requires the development and implementation of a rigorous research plan, based on a competitive understanding of the relevant literature and the need for answers to questions posed in that literature as a result of new theory. Students will need to successfully achieve candidacy within the subscribed time period (6 months) as a first stage of the program. They will also be required to enrol in and pass an initial proposal preparation coursework unit and other units as indicated at enrolment.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Curtin Perth, Western Australia, Australia

78 Murray St, Perth, WA 6000

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Students will need to successfully achieve candidacy within the subscribed time period (6 months) as a first stage of the program.
Students will be required to enrol in and pass an initial proposal preparation coursework unit and other units as indicated at enrolment.
The research project must be mutually agreed upon by the student, their supervisors and the Head of School.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

The Doctor of Philosophy is the standard pre-requisite for a career in research or academia. Curtin's international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Doctor of Philosophy - Environmental Science take to complete?

The Doctor of Philosophy - Environmental Science is 4 years full-time or equivalent part-time study.

Are there any fees for Australian citizens or permanent residents undertaking this PhD?

Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens who are successful applicants of a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program are eligible for a tuition fee exemption under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP): up to four years of full-time equivalent study for Doctoral or PhD programs.

What is the candidacy requirement for the PhD program?

Students will need to successfully achieve candidacy within the subscribed time period of 6 months as a first stage of the program.

What will I learn during the Doctor of Philosophy - Environmental Science?

You will learn to demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge, think critically and evaluate existing knowledge, apply expert creative, technical and professional skills, present a complex investigation of originality for external examination against international standards, communicate complex research concepts to peers and the broader community, and design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice.

Where is the Doctor of Philosophy - Environmental Science offered?

The Doctor of Philosophy - Environmental Science is offered at Curtin Perth, with on-campus delivery available for Research Term 1 and Research Term 2 in both 2026 and 2027.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $60,000 to $80,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $80,000 to $100,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $100,000 to $130,000 per year

Career Paths

Environmental ScientistEnvironmental ConsultantEnvironmental OfficerEcologistConservation Biologist

Key Skills

Ecological field surveying and biodiversity assessmentEnvironmental impact assessment (EIA) and risk analysisWater and soil sampling, analysis, and monitoringGeographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data analysisEnvironmental data collection, statistical modelling, and interpretation

Full Course Overview

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