Master of Philosophy (Economics, Finance and Property)

The Master of Philosophy (Economics, Finance and Property) at Curtin University is a research master's degree. It is for students who want to investigate a specific problem in economics, finance or property in depth, rather than complete a coursework degree. You will work on a supervised research project and produce a thesis that makes an original contribution to your field.

This is a three-year degree. As a research qualification, it does not follow the semester-by-semester unit structure of a coursework master's. Instead, you will enrol in a research programme and work under the guidance of a supervisor. You may be required to complete some coursework units in research methods or your discipline area, depending on your background and the advice of your supervisor. The main component is your thesis. There is no standard capstone unit; the thesis itself is the core of the degree. Credit points are assigned according to the institution's research degree structure, and you should confirm the specific requirements on the official Curtin page.

You will develop skills in research design, data analysis, economic modelling, and academic writing. The exact methods depend on your project. Economics research often involves econometric analysis and statistical software. Finance research may involve financial modelling and market data analysis. Property research can involve urban economics, real estate finance, or property valuation. You will learn to frame a research question, review literature, collect and analyse data, and present your findings in a thesis. You will also present your work to peers and academics, which builds communication skills.

This degree suits students who have completed a bachelor degree with a strong research component or an honours degree in economics, finance, property, or a related field. It is a good fit if you want to pursue a research career, work in policy analysis, or go on to a PhD. It also suits professionals who want to deepen their analytical skills and contribute to knowledge in their field. The Master of Philosophy is a research degree, so it is best for people who enjoy independent study and have a clear interest in a specific topic.

As an international student, you will need to meet English language requirements. Curtin accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge C1 Advanced, among others. The typical requirement for this degree is an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, but you should check the official page for the exact score. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester. After you graduate, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. Always confirm the details on the official Curtin page or the CRICOS website.

• Economist: Work in government departments, banks, consultancies, or research organisations analysing economic data and policy.
• Financial analyst: Assess investment opportunities, manage portfolios, or provide financial advice in banking, funds management, or corporate finance.
• Property analyst or valuer: Analyse property markets, value assets, or advise on property investment for real estate firms, developers, or government agencies.
• Policy analyst: Develop and evaluate economic and financial policy for government or industry bodies.
• Academic researcher or PhD candidate: Continue to a doctorate and pursue a career in university teaching and research.
• Data analyst: Apply statistical and econometric skills in business, finance, or the public sector.