Curtin University

What you'll study

The PhD (Education) is primarily a supervised research degree culminating in a substantial thesis that demonstrates original scholarship. Candidates develop a focused research question in areas such as curriculum and pedagogy, educational leadership, assessment and evaluation, inclusive education, digital and online learning, teacher education, early childhood education, or education policy and equity.

• Research project and thesis: The core of the program is the design, execution and reporting of an independent research project under the guidance of a supervisory team.
• Research training: Coursework and short courses are available to build capability in research design, ethics, qualitative and quantitative methods, mixed methods approaches, advanced statistics, and research writing.
• Professional development: Opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, conferences and teaching practice to develop academic and translational research skills.
• Candidature milestones: Typical milestones include initial project proposal, confirmation of candidature, periodic progress reviews, and final submission with examination and oral defence/viva voce.

Supervision is provided by academic staff in Curtin's School of Education and allied research centres; interdisciplinary supervision is common for projects that cross into STEM education, social policy, health education or digital technologies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant honours degree with a substantial research component, a master's degree by research, or a master's degree with demonstrated research experience. Admission typically requires a clear research proposal that aligns with Curtin supervisors' expertise, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and referees' reports.

• Evidence of prior research training or significant research experience (for example a research thesis or publications).
• A strong academic record at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
• English language proficiency in line with Curtin's postgraduate research requirements for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Some applicants may be required to attend an interview with potential supervisors or a selection panel.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in Education pursue careers across higher education, research institutions, government and non-government education agencies, and the private sector. Common roles include:

• Academic positions (lecturer, senior lecturer, researcher) involving teaching and higher-degree supervision.
• Research roles in universities, policy institutes and think tanks focusing on evidence-informed education policy and program evaluation.
• Senior leadership and curriculum development roles in schools, school systems and tertiary institutions.
• Consultancy in education design, assessment, professional learning and digital learning strategy.
• Senior roles in government and non-government organisations working on educational access, equity, and quality improvement.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin's School of Education has a broad research profile and experience supervising higher-degree research candidates across a range of education topics. The university supports candidates with access to research training programs, workshops on methodology and research communication, and opportunities to present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed outlets.

Curtin emphasises cross-disciplinary collaboration and connections with industry and schools, helping candidates translate research into practice and policy. Flexible study modes and a structured candidature framework support both full-time and part-time candidates, including those balancing professional roles while completing research.