PhD Urban and Regional Planning at Curtin University
CU Curtin University logo
PhD / Doctorate Architecture Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy (Urban and Regional Planning) Research

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

050586K

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

The Doctor of Philosophy (Urban and Regional Planning) at Curtin University centres on original, independent research that addresses contemporary issues in urban and regional environments. PhD candidates investigate critical topics such as sustainable city development, planning policy, urban design, housing, infrastructure, and regional strategies. You’ll be guided by experienced supervisors as you design and execute a substantial research project that contributes new knowledge or policy insight to the field of urban and regional planning.

This doctoral degree is structured according to Australian norms: study is typically full-time over a period of four years. The degree is research-focused, requiring the completion of a major thesis examined by experts in the field. There are no prescribed coursework units, but students may have opportunities to attend seminars and workshops, present at conferences, and, where applicable, collaborate with industry partners or government agencies in Western Australia. Work-integrated learning, such as placements or internships, may sometimes be arranged, especially if the research project has practical implications or industry partners.

Students develop deep skills in research methodology, critical thinking, advanced planning theory, and professional practice. You'll learn to collect and analyse data, manage a research project, and communicate your findings to both scholarly and industry audiences. This doctoral degree suits those who wish to become experts in urban and regional planning, including mid-career professionals aiming for leadership roles or those planning on an academic career.

Curtin’s links with planning agencies and the strong presence of resource and development industries in Perth provide context for research with real-world impact. International students must meet Curtin's English requirements, and may work up to 48 hours per fortnight in Australia. Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For exact entry requirements and course details, refer to the official Curtin University website.

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

  • Urban and regional planner
  • Policy analyst
  • Academic and researcher at Australian universities
  • Planning consultant for state and local government
  • Community development advisor
  • Roles in property development and infrastructure firms

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy (Urban and Regional Planning) 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?

Urban and regional plannerPolicy analystAcademic and researcher at Australian universitiesPlanning consultant for state and local governmentCommunity development advisorRoles in property development and infrastructure firms

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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