PhD in Economics and Finance – Curtin University

PhD / Doctorate Economics Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Economics and Finance) Research

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

043989E

CRICOS provider code

00301J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

4 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$161,524 total

Per year

A$40,381/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

Curtin University's Doctor of Philosophy (Economics and Finance) is a research-intensive doctorate that allows you to investigate complex issues across economics and finance. Over four years, you will conduct original research, culminating in a substantial thesis that contributes to the field. Expect to work closely with experienced supervisors, drawing on Curtin’s strong industry connections and exposure to both theoretical and applied economic and financial methods.

The degree is structured around successful completion of required research training, followed by your own research project. You’ll enrol in units each semester to meet credit requirements, including research skills and professional development modules, though most of your credit is earned through thesis work. There is no set coursework; the focus is on the depth of independent inquiry, regular progress milestones, and a final examination based on your written thesis and oral defence.

As a Curtin PhD candidate, you’ll have opportunities to access local datasets and consult with industry partners in Perth, a major resource hub and business centre. This course suits those interested in academic careers, policy development, financial analysis, or consultancy, and it needs strong self-motivation, analytical capability, and the ability to manage a multi-year research project.

International students must meet English proficiency standards, as accepted by Curtin and the Australian Government. While enrolled, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and eligible graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. Always check the official course page for the latest details.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Academic positions at Australian universities
Research roles in government agencies (e.g. Treasury, Reserve Bank, Productivity Commission)
Economic consultancy roles in the private sector
Financial sector analysis positions in banks and investment firms
Policy analysis positions within non-government organisations and think tanks
Applied research roles in Western Australia’s resource and business industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Economics and Finance) Research at Curtin University?

It typically takes 4 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$161,524 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic positions at Australian universitiesResearch roles in government agencies (e.g. Treasury, Reserve Bank, Productivity Commission)Economic consultancy roles in the private sectorFinancial sector analysis positions in banks and investment firmsPolicy analysis positions with...

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