Curtin University

What you'll study

The PhD in Economics, Finance and Property is a supervised research degree centred on an original thesis that makes a substantive contribution to knowledge in one or more of these fields. Candidates pursue a bespoke research programme under primary and associate supervisors drawn from Curtin Business School and related research centres. Research topics commonly include applied econometrics, macroeconomic policy, financial markets and risk, corporate finance, investment analysis, real estate finance, property valuation, land economics, housing markets, and urban and regional economics.

Although the emphasis is on independent research rather than taught coursework, candidates typically undertake research training modules and professional development workshops covering research methods (quantitative and qualitative), advanced econometrics, data management, academic writing and research ethics. Key milestones in candidature include the development and approval of a research proposal, confirmation of candidature, periodic progress reviews, and a final thesis examination and oral examination (viva).

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on the applicant's academic record, research potential and alignment with available supervisory expertise. Typical entry routes are:

• a relevant recognised master’s degree with a substantial research component or thesis, or
• a bachelor’s honours degree with a strong research performance (usually first class or upper second class honours) in economics, finance, property, or a closely related discipline.

Applicants should submit a research proposal, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, and names of proposed or preferred supervisors where possible. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with Curtin’s requirements (for example, recognised English test scores or equivalent evidence). Professional experience in relevant fields can strengthen an application but does not replace the requirement for demonstrated research capability.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD programme move into a range of careers that value high-level research, quantitative analysis and domain expertise. Common pathways include:

• academic careers: university lecturer, researcher and postdoctoral fellow in economics, finance or property;
• public policy and government roles: economic analyst, policy adviser or researcher in central banks, treasury departments and planning agencies;
• industry research and consulting: senior analyst, economist or consultant in financial services, investment firms, real estate companies and specialist consultancies;
• specialist roles in property and valuation: property economist, asset manager, valuation analyst and development strategist;
• commercial research and data science roles that require strong econometric and quantitative modelling skills.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers PhD candidates access to the resources of Curtin Business School and established research centres with expertise across economics, finance and property. Candidates benefit from experienced supervisors with active research profiles, access to campus computing and data facilities, and opportunities for industry engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. Curtin’s location provides links to regional and national economic activity and property markets, supporting applied research that can influence policy and practice.

The university emphasises structured research training and professional development for higher degree by research students, including workshops on advanced methods, publishing, grant writing and knowledge exchange. These supports are designed to help candidates complete a rigorous doctoral thesis and prepare for careers in academia, government and industry.