Coursework degrees
Students undertaking postgraduate degrees by coursework enrol in subjects and attend lectures and tutorials. There will often be a minor research component and assessment is progressive throughout the course.
Graduate Certificate
The graduate certificate will broaden the skills and knowledge already gained from an undergraduate degree, or develop your vocational skills in a new area. Students completing graduate certificates may have the option of moving on to further postgraduate study depending on the subject area.
Entry requirements:
Applicants usually require the equivalent of a bachelor degree or advanced diploma but, in certain cases, relevant work experience can be recognised.
Course duration:
Generally six months full time study or part time equivalent.
Graduate Diploma
The graduate diploma is a specialised, vocationally-orientated award designed for students who wish to develop new knowledge and skills in an area not previously studied in their undergraduate degree. Completion of the graduate diploma may entitle you to recognition of prior learning (RPL), should you wish to proceed to a master degree.
Entry requirements:
Entry is normally based on a bachelor degree or diploma. Exceptions may be made in the case of less academically qualified applicants with appropriate work experience, depending on the institution from which they have graduated and the field of study.
Course duration:
Generally 12 months full time study or part time equivalent.
Postgraduate Diploma
These courses are for those students who have completed undergraduate studies in a particular discipline, and want to further their studies in the same area at postgraduate level. Participants maintain a vocational emphasis through strong links with practitioners. Completion of the postgraduate diploma may entitle you to recognition of prior learning (RPL), should you wish to proceed to a master degree.
Entry requirements:
Entry is normally based on a bachelor degree or diploma. Exceptions may be made in the case of less academically qualified applicants with appropriate work experience, depending on the institution from which they have graduated and the field of study.
Course duration:
Generally 12 months full time study or part time equivalent.
Master by Coursework
The typical master degree comprises coursework, project work and research in varying combinations. The degree is designed to enhance your professional skills or help you acquire a deeper understanding of a specific area of knowledge. The advantage of undertaking a master by coursework is the high level of tutorial advice and study guidance.
Entry requirements:
Normally a bachelor degree, honours degree or graduate diploma. Students without formal entry qualifications, but who posess relevant academic or professional experience, may be given the opportunity to embark on a preliminary program. Provided their performance in this preliminary program meets the required standard, they can then qualify for admission to a master by coursework.
Course duration:
Varies due to the range of entry pathways, but most require the equivalent of two years full time study.
Professional Master
The professional master programs are designed with
the busy professional in mind. Fast-track and
intensive, these programs offer an executive-style
qualification directly relevant to career
environments, with the added benefit of networking
with like-minded people. Relevant work experience is
a prerequisite for entry into this program.
Entry requirements:
A bachelor degree, honours degree or graduate diploma and relevant professional experience.
Course duration:
Varies between one year and three semesters full time study or part time equivalent.
Professional Doctorate
The Doctor of Clinical Physiotherapy is Curtin's inaugural coursework doctorate. It provides advanced theoretical knowledge, contemporary clinical practice and clinical research opportunities.
Entry requirements:
A relevant postgraduate degree and relevant professional experience.
Course duration:
Varies between two to four years full time study or part time equivalent.
Specialist Programs for Industry Professionals
Curtin offers a range of specialised short to medium-term courses to Australian resident students. These courses can be tailored to a specific industry or company or are sometimes offered as generic programs tailored to meet professional needs, through the faculties or the Consultancy Coordination Units.

