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DR-ABOR

Aboriginal Studies

Doctorate by research

Course outline
  • Qualification
    Doctor of Philosophy - Aboriginal Studies
  • Duration

    Duration

    4 years full-time
  • Location

    Location

    Curtin Perth
Course outline

Overview

Overview

As a doctoral research degree candidate, you will uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. Your research will use an in-depth understanding of theories and concepts to develop practical solutions for real-world problems.

A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

Throughout your studies, our faculties will provide you with access to equipment and resources to support your research, and financial assistance to attend appropriate local and international conferences.

Why research at Curtin

Curtin is widely recognised for applied research firmly focused on solving real-world problems. Underpinning our research endeavours are strong partnerships with industry, business and government, which result in outcomes that greatly benefit the broader community locally, nationally and globally. Our international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures our graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields.

What you'll learn

  • Demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that knowledge and their practice
  • Think critically, evaluate existing knowledge and ideas, undertake systematic investigation and reflect on theory and practice to generate original knowledge
  • Apply expert creative, technical and professional skills to the field of work or learning
  • Explain and critique theoretical propositions, methodologies and conclusions
  • Present a complex investigation of originality or original research for external examination against international standards
  • Communicate complex research concepts, plans and outcomes to the general community, peers and the national and international research community
  • Design, implement, analyse, theorise and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice

Professional recognition and accreditation

Depending on your area of speciality, you may be eligible for membership of various professional organisations upon graduation.

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

Entry requirements for domestic students

Applicants are required to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research, and applicants for a Doctoral Degree are required to meet University academic and English language entry standards. Applicants are required to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training and ability to pursue the proposed research course. Generally, this may be a Master's Degree or Bachelor's Degree with first or upper second class honours. See Section 3.2.1 of the HDR Admission Policy (https://policies.curtin.edu.au/findapolicy/index.cfm) for detailed information. Any specific course entry and completion requirements must also be met. All Curtin courses have compulsory and other core capabilities that are essential for demonstrating the achievement of course learning outcomes and graduation. Students who are unable to meet or demonstrate those requirements, now or in later stages during their studies, may seek reasonable adjustments from the University wherever possible to facilitate alternative ways of achieving those requirements. If reasonable adjustments cannot be accommodated, Curtin will discuss study options to find an alternative course of study or an exit degree.

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)

Writing

7

Speaking

6

Reading

7

Listening

6.5

Overall band score

6.5

Other requirements and notes for this course

Course Completion Requirements 

Type 1: Standard Thesis-Driven Approach Milestone 1 consists of an oral presentation and a written proposal. Each milestone is reviewed, and feedback is provided. Candidates can complete a standard thesis of up to 100,000 words, with longer or shorter theses negotiable. Topics can cover any area suitable for the student and supported by the Centre for Aboriginal Studies. Research that has a positive impact is highly valued, with beneficence being a key component. Type 2: Creative Works and Exegesis Approach For candidates incorporating a body of creative works—such as music, performance, visual works, material production, cultural artefacts, poetry, or a book—part of Milestone 1 can be presented creatively through an Artist Statement, Oral Presentation, or Installation, alongside the written proposal. This approach is developed in consultation with the supervisory team and is outlined in a structured program, explained and supported in Milestone 1. A Doctor of Philosophy - Aboriginal Studies (DR-ABOR) by Creative Work and Exegesis requires the completion of a substantial creative work at a PhD level. The exegesis, which contextualizes and critically examines the creative artefact, must be 35,000 words in length. The artefact may include, but is not limited to: performance, musical compositions, digital works (including gaming), books, poetry, teaching kits, cultural kits, photographic and visual arts projects, sculptures, installations, and other community-oriented creative outputs (e.g., works designed for libraries, schools, prisons, hospitals, churches, institutions, or professional fields such as healthcare). The exegesis will explain any stylistic and literary influences on the work and include scholarly research that supports the creative practice. Type 3: Publication-Based Thesis Candidates may opt for a thesis based on published works. Milestone 1 involves negotiating the proposed format, including a written and oral presentation of a well-defined and clear research proposal. This approach requires an introductory chapter, a concluding chapter, and at least five published works forming the core thesis chapters. The publications must be completed during the candidature and should be cohesive, as explained in the introduction. The total word limit is 100,000 words. Projects exceeding the word limits may be approved through negotiation with the Research Panel.

In addition to the course-specific admission criteria listed above, please read our general admission criteria. Our general admission criteria apply to all courses at Curtin University.

Credit for recognised learning (CRL)

Use your experience to get credit towards your degree

Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.

Fees and scholarships

Under the Research Training Program (RTP), Australian and New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents undertaking higher degrees by research may be granted an Australian Government RTP Fee Offset Scholarship to assist with tuition fee liability.

You may be eligible for a scholarship or industry assistance (sponsorship) may be available from external organisations under special conditions.

Fee information is not available for this course at this time. Find estimated course fees.

Looking for more detail on the course structure?

View course structure

Location

For start dates, please view the academic calendar.

All endeavours are made to ensure location information for courses is up to date but please note they are subject to change.

The University reserves the right to withdraw any unit of study or program which it offers, to impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or program, and/or to vary arrangements for any program.

How to apply

Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice

Please note that each campus has different application deadlines. View our application deadlines page for further information.

Apply now
  • The offering information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.

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  • Curtin course code: DR-ABOR
  • Last updated on: 31 March 2025

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