PhD National Drug Research Institute – Curtin University
CU Curtin University logo
PhD / Doctorate Public Health Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (National Drug Research Institute) Research

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

043964C

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$163,288 total

Per year

A$40,822/yr

Intake

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

About this program

Curtin University’s Doctor of Philosophy (National Drug Research Institute) is a four-year research doctorate focussed on public health, specialising in the prevention, harm minimisation, and policy analysis of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. PhD candidates work closely with supervisors at the National Drug Research Institute, a leader in drug and alcohol policy research, developing original contributions to the field through an individual research project.

The PhD is structured around intensive independent research conducted over four years, culminating in a thesis that is evaluated by external examiners. Candidates often participate in research seminars, methodological workshops, and may contribute to ongoing projects within the Institute. Some students may have the opportunity to collaborate with government departments, health agencies, and community organisations during their candidature, giving insight into the practical application of their research.

Doctoral students gain advanced skills in research design, data analysis, policy development, public health communication, and critical evaluation. This pathway suits those aiming for academic careers, leadership in public health, or high-level research positions. Applicants should have a background in public health, social sciences, psychology, or a related discipline, and must demonstrate research readiness.

International students must meet Curtin’s English requirements and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. While enrolled, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. For full details on credit structure and the most current entry requirements, check the official course page.

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 researcher in public health or drug policy
  • Policy analyst in government health departments
  • Research lead at public health institutes
  • Program evaluator for community and non-government organisations
  • Advisory roles in international health agencies

Graduates are sought after by Australian universities, state and federal health departments, research centres, and health NGOs.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (National Drug Research Institute) 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$163,288 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic researcher in public health or drug policyPolicy analyst in government health departmentsResearch lead at public health institutesProgram evaluator for community and non-government organisationsAdvisory roles in international health agenciesGraduates are sought after by...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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