Curtin University: Courses, Fees, And Rankings 2026!

Curtin University has rapidly established itself as one of Australia's most dynamic and globally connected universities. Founded in 1966 and achieving full university status in 1986, this forward-thinking institution has evolved into a world-class research powerhouse. Located in Perth, one of the world's most liveable cities, Curtin University Perth offers students an exceptional urban culture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this University.

About Curtin University

Curtin University stands proudly as Western Australia's largest and most culturally diverse university. Nestled on a stunning 116-hectare campus in Bentley, just 8 kilometres south of Perth's CBD, the main campus features award-winning architecture surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Curtin University Perth Australia serves a community of over 58,000 students, with more than 18,000 international learners representing over 130 nationalities. 

What truly distinguishes Curtin Perth is its commitment to industry-aligned education and innovation. The institution has invested heavily in cutting-edge facilities. Curtin University alumni include Tim Winton, Carrie Bickmore, John Butler, Michaelia Cash, and Cody Fern, making it one of Australia's most multicultural and one of the best universities in Perth.

Curtin University Rankings

Curtin Uni Perth continues to earn international recognition for its academic excellence and exceptional graduate employability. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, the university is positioned at #183 globally, placing it in the top 1% of universities worldwide. The institution ranks #9 in Australia according to Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. 

Curtin University rankings show particular strength in subject-specific areas, with impressive positions in Mineral & Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Nursing, Business & Management, Engineering, and Computer Science. The institution earned a 5-star rating in the QS Stars Rating System, confirming its dedication to delivering world-class teaching. Additionally, this university ranks among the top 10 business schools in Australia. These rankings collectively showcase the institution's unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

Curtin University Courses

Curtin University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in rapidly evolving industries. With over 300 undergraduate programs and 160+ postgraduate courses spanning multiple disciplines, students can choose from an impressive array of options. The institution's curriculum is research-led and developed in close partnership with industry leaders, ensuring that course content reflects current workplace demands and emerging global trends.

The institution also offers numerous doctoral research opportunities across its global campuses, reinforcing its reputation for innovation and world-class research. Here are the popular courses that attract talented students from around the globe!

Undergraduate Degrees

The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs that combine academic rigour with hands-on practical experience. Popular undergraduate courses include:

Popular Undergraduate Courses

Postgraduate Degrees

The institution offers a wide selection of master's programs designed to provide students with advanced expertise, industry-relevant skills, and global perspectives. Popular postgraduate courses are:

Popular Postgraduate Courses

PhD Degrees

For those aspiring to make groundbreaking contributions to their fields, the university offers select doctoral programs that emphasise innovation, cutting-edge research, and global collaboration. Here is a list of popular PhD programs offered by this prestigious institution:

PhD Programs

Curtin University Tuition Fees

Understanding the Curtin University tuition fees is essential for effective financial planning. For domestic undergraduate students, annual fees are AUD 9,500–15,000, while international undergraduate students can expect to pay AUD 28,200 and AUD 47,347 per year. Curtin University tuition fees for postgraduate programs generally range from AUD 13,000 to AUD 18,000 for domestic students and AUD 28,400 to AUD 49,021 per year for international students.

Beyond tuition, students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses. The cost of living in Perth is compared to cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with studying at this university!

Estimated Yearly Cost of Attendance

Curtin University Scholarships

Curtin University is deeply committed to making higher education accessible by offering a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities. The institution offers numerous scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, including the Curtin International Merit Scholarship, which provides up to 25% tuition fee reduction for high-achieving international students.

Additionally, the university provides specialised funding for students from specific regions, countries, and backgrounds. The institution disburses millions of dollars annually in scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid, helping thousands of students manage their educational costs and focus on their studies.

An incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides £5000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of notable scholarships available at this prestigious institution!

List of Scholarships

Curtin University Admissions Process

The admission process at the institution is designed to be straightforward and supportive, guiding prospective students through each stage of their application journey. With an acceptance rate of approximately 50-85% (varying by program), the institution welcomes students who demonstrate strong academic ability, genuine interest in their chosen field, and potential for future success. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the admissions process effectively.

1. Fill Out the Application – Apply online through the university's direct application portal for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. International students can also apply through authorised education agents.

2. Pay the Application Fee (if applicable) – Most programs have no application fee. However, some specialised courses may require a nominal fee—check specific program requirements.

3. Provide Academic Transcripts – Submit academic transcripts from your previous educational institutions demonstrating your academic eligibility and performance.

4. English Language Proficiency – If English is not your first language, provide proof through IELTS (minimum 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT (minimum 68-79), PTE Academic (minimum 50-58), or equivalent test scores meeting the institution's requirements.

5. Additional Documents – Submit a copy of your passport, resume/CV (for postgraduate programs), and any program-specific requirements such as portfolios (for creative courses) or work experience certificates.

6. Letters of Recommendation – Some programs may require one or two academic letters of recommendation to support your application, particularly for research degrees and competitive courses.

Curtin University Eligibility Criteria

The institution maintains clear and accessible entry requirements, ensuring that applicants are well-prepared for their chosen programs. Below are the general eligibility requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.

Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor's Degrees

1. Academic Performance – Applicants must have completed secondary education with satisfactory results. Typical requirements include an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) ranging from 70-85 or equivalent international qualifications such as Indian Standard XII with 70-80%, IB Diploma with 24-30 points, or A-levels with BBB-ABC.

2. Subject-Specific Requirements – Some programs require specific subjects at the secondary level. High-demand courses may have higher ATAR requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Master's Degrees

1. Academic Background: A bachelor's degree from a recognised institution with a minimum of 60% marks or an Australian equivalent of Credit average is required. Competitive programs may require higher grades or relevant work experience.

2. Relevant Experience: Certain programs value relevant work experience or professional qualifications, particularly in fields like business, MBA programs, and specialised master's degrees.

3. English Proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS (minimum 6.5, with no band below 6.0 for most courses), TOEFL iBT (minimum 79), or PTE Academic (minimum 58). Some programs may have higher requirements.

4. Additional Requirements: Some programs may require GMAT scores (particularly for MBA), professional certifications, research proposals (for research degrees), or portfolio submissions, depending on the discipline.

Curtin University Student Life

Curtin University offers an exceptional student experience on one of Australia's most beautiful and well-connected campuses. With more than 100 student clubs and societies managed by the Curtin Student Guild, there are endless opportunities to get involved, whether joining the Engineering Society, International Students' Association, Entrepreneur Society, Gaming Club, or competing with the Curtin Sports teams. Regular campus events, cultural celebrations, leadership programs, and volunteering opportunities through Curtin Volunteers! 

Beyond campus, Curtin University Perth's location offers excellent access to everything this city has to offer. Students can explore cosy cafes like La Vita Cafe & Restaurant, Salero Minang, and Wing It Karawara. They can also enjoy social evenings at popular spots such as The Court Hotel, Little Creatures Fremantle, and Perth's bar scene. The city boasts stunning attractions, including Kings Park, one of the world's largest inner-city parks, Perth Cultural Centre, Cottesloe Beach, Rottnest Island, and the beautiful Swan River.

For travel enthusiasts, the university's Perth location provides exceptional transport connections. Students can easily access Perth's pristine beaches just 20 minutes away, explore the Margaret River wine region, adventure through the Pinnacles Desert, or discover the natural beauty of Western Australia's Southwest. Perth Airport offers convenient international connections, making weekend trips and holiday travel easily accessible. 

Curtin University Placements

The institution is renowned for its exceptional employability record and strong connections with leading employers across Australia and globally. The Careers and Employability team provides comprehensive support, including CV workshops, mock interviews, career counselling, job search strategies, networking events, and direct employer connections. The university boasts an impressive 86% postgraduate employment rate, with graduates securing positions within months of graduation and earning a median salary of AUD 70,900.

The institution's strategic location in Perth, the Energy Capital of the Southern Hemisphere, provides unique advantages. Strong partnerships with global companies across sectors provide students with valuable internships, placements, and recruitment opportunities. Curtin University alumni pursue successful careers with prestigious employers such as Chevron, Woodside Energy, BHP, Rio, Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and major healthcare providers.

The average starting salary for graduates from this institution is around AUD 60,000–70,000 annually, with significantly higher earning potential in specialised fields. Alumni in sectors such as mining engineering, petroleum engineering, data science, IT, business analytics, and health sciences can earn AUD 80,000–120,000+ in their early careers, reflecting the institution's commitment to producing highly skilled professionals.

Student Accommodation near Curtin University

While Curtin University provides on-campus accommodation for students through UniLodge-managed properties and St Catherine's College, many students choose off-campus housing for greater independence. The areas surrounding the institution offer numerous housing options, from modern studio apartments to shared flats with fellow students.

Well-equipped communities offering student accommodation near Curtin University feature amenities such as study spaces, communal lounges, laundry facilities, gym access, and excellent public transport connections. For those seeking safe, affordable, and convenient off-campus housing options, amber provides a wide variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some top options for student accommodation near Curtin University!

1. ECU Village Mount Lawley

2. Campus Perth

3. UniLodge Perth Central 

4. Yugo Perth City

5. Juno House

Now, after understanding every requirement and aspect of Curtin University, you can make an informed decision about when, how and from where you should start you ultimate student journey.

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