Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) Research

The Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) at Curtin University has a duration of 4 years full-time, with part-time study also available.

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. Detailed information is available in Section 3.2.1 of the HDR admission policy.

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.

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).

The Doctor of Philosophy (Petroleum Engineering) is offered at Curtin Perth, with delivery available both on campus and online across Research Term 1 and Research Term 2 for 2026 and 2027.