Curtin University

What you'll study

The PhD in Business and Management is a primarily research-based programme focused on the completion of an original thesis. Candidates design and carry out a substantial research project under the supervision of Curtin academic staff, addressing theoretical and applied questions in business and management.

Formal learning commonly undertaken alongside the thesis includes research methods and methodology, advanced quantitative and qualitative techniques, scholarly writing and publication skills, and discipline-specific seminars. Typical study activities and milestones include:

• Developing a research proposal and literature review
• Advanced training in research design, data collection and analysis (e.g. econometrics, structural equation modelling, case methods, ethnography)
• Regular supervisory meetings and participation in research seminars or centres
• Confirmation of candidature and ethics approvals where required
• Preparation of thesis chapters and submission for examination, often including journal article submissions
• Oral examination (viva voce) or other assessment as required by the university

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a relevant research master’s degree with a substantial research component or a first-class honours degree in a related discipline. Applicants with a master’s without a research component may be considered if they can demonstrate strong research potential through professional experience, publications or a clearly developed research proposal.

Admission is subject to the availability of suitably qualified supervisors with expertise in the proposed topic. Applicants should submit a CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and a list of preferred supervisors or research areas. International applicants must meet Curtin's English language requirements; some candidates may be asked to provide evidence of prior research training or undertake preparatory coursework in research methods before confirmation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Business and Management pursue careers across academia, public policy and industry. Typical roles include:

• Academic positions such as lecturer, senior lecturer or researcher within universities and business schools
• Research roles in government agencies, think tanks and non-government organisations
• Senior analytic and strategic roles in consulting firms, financial services, and corporate strategy teams
• Leadership positions in entrepreneurship, innovation management and research and development units
• Advisory and policy roles where deep expertise in management theory and evidence-based practice is required

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers a supportive research environment with access to interdisciplinary research centres and industry partnerships, enabling doctoral candidates to pursue applied and policy-relevant projects. The university’s business and management academics have expertise across a wide range of fields and maintain active publication and consultancy records, providing strong supervisory capacity.

Curtin provides structured higher degree by research support, including training in research methods, scholarship application advice and peer networks. Candidates benefit from modern research facilities, opportunities for collaborative projects and a global campus network that can facilitate international collaborations and placements.