PhD / Doctorate Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Doctor of Philosophy

at Deakin University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

006244J

CRICOS provider code

00113B

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$159,960 total

Per year

A$39,990/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Curriculum & Instruction at Deakin University is an advanced research-focused degree designed for individuals seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field of education. Students undertake an independent, supervised research project culminating in a substantial thesis that addresses complex problems or gaps within curriculum theory, design, pedagogy, or educational policy. The programme nurtures expertise in qualitative, quantitative, or mixed research methods, equipping graduates to critically engage with contemporary issues and innovate teaching and learning approaches.

This doctoral qualification sits at Level 10 of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and is typically completed over four years of full-time study (or equivalent part-time). The course structure involves a combination of regular progress reviews, advanced research seminars, and engagement with scholarly and professional communities. Students commence with candidature confirmation and gradually develop their research under the guidance of an experienced supervisory panel.

Throughout the PhD, candidates benefit from Deakin University’s strong industry and research links with Australian educational institutions and curriculum stakeholders. While the primary emphasis is on independent research, students may engage in professional placements or collaborative projects as relevant. The programme suits educators, policy-makers, and aspiring academics who are committed to advancing curriculum theory and practice, and who value opportunities to influence the direction of education in Australia and beyond.

Graduates leave with advanced research, analytical, and communication skills essential for leadership roles within education, higher education policy, or curriculum development. Prospective students must meet English language requirements as outlined, with several accepted test options. International students are encouraged to confirm the latest course and visa details from the official university and government websites.

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

University academic or lecturer
Curriculum designer and developer
Educational policy advisor
Researcher in education agencies or institutes
Educational consultant for Australian and international schools
Leadership roles in government departments of education

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Philosophy at Deakin 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$159,960 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

University academic or lecturerCurriculum designer and developerEducational policy advisorResearcher in education agencies or institutesEducational consultant for Australian and international schoolsLeadership roles in government departments of education

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