Nursing and Midwifery (Research)

The Doctor of Philosophy (Research) in Nursing and Midwifery at Curtin University offers an exceptional opportunity for dedicated scholars to contribute to the advancement of nursing and midwifery practices through rigorous research and academic excellence. This program is designed for experienced healthcare professionals, academic researchers, and individuals seeking to develop their expertise in evidence-based healthcare, clinical practice, health policy, and innovative healthcare solutions. Students engaging in this doctoral journey will undertake independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors, aiming to produce a significant contribution to the knowledge base in nursing and midwifery disciplines.

The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, research methodology skills, and scholarly communication, enabling graduates to influence healthcare practices and policies at local, national, and international levels. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, comprehensive academic resources, and a vibrant academic community that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. The research areas encompass a wide array of topics, such as patient care, healthcare management, public health, maternal and child health, mental health, and health technology innovations.

Throughout their candidature, students are encouraged to present their findings at national and international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals, reinforcing their professional reputation and contributing to the global health knowledge pool. The program is structured to support aspiring researchers through coursework options, research seminars, and one-on-one supervision, ensuring they develop the necessary skills to achieve academic and research excellence. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue prominent roles in academia, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and research institutions, where they can influence the future of nursing and midwifery practice.

Curtin University's commitment to research excellence and its strong industry connections provide students with numerous opportunities for practical research experience, networking, and career advancement. By undertaking this Doctorate of Philosophy (Research) in Nursing and Midwifery, students will be equipped with the advanced research capabilities required to make a tangible difference in healthcare delivery and policy development globally.

The Nursing and Midwifery (Research) program at Curtin University is designed to prepare students for advanced research roles in the fields of nursing and midwifery. This program provides a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of contemporary issues, theories, and methodologies in healthcare research, empowering graduates to contribute to evidence-based practice, policy development, and academic knowledge. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse range of research techniques, including qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis, and ethical considerations in healthcare research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and the application of research findings to real-world healthcare challenges to improve patient outcomes and healthcare systems. Students will have access to cutting-edge facilities and resources, and will work closely with experienced academics and industry professionals to develop their research skills and expertise. The curriculum covers various topics such as healthcare policy, nursing and midwifery practices, research ethics, and data management. In addition to coursework, students undertake a research project or thesis that allows them to investigate specific issues within nursing or midwifery in depth. This program is ideal for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers in research, academia, or policy development, as well as those aiming to contribute to the scientific understanding of health and wellbeing. Graduates will be prepared to work in diverse settings, including hospitals, research institutes, government agencies, and academic institutions, where they can play influential roles in shaping the future of nursing and midwifery practice through evidence-based research and innovation.

Program requirements for the Nursing and Midwifery (Research) Master's program at Curtin University typically include completing a research thesis and demonstrating research capability in nursing and midwifery fields. Applicants are generally expected to hold a recognized undergraduate degree in nursing, midwifery, or a related health discipline with a minimum GPA requirement, often around 2.0 or equivalent. Prior research experience or a background in research methods may be advantageous but not always mandatory. Applicants may need to submit a research proposal outlining their intended area of study and how it aligns with current research strengths at Curtin University.

Candidates are usually required to provide evidence of English language proficiency, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent scores from other standardized tests unless exempted due to their qualification background. The program may also require applicants to submit a curriculum vitae and personal statement describing their research interests, career goals, and motivation for undertaking research in nursing or midwifery.

Admission is subject to meeting academic criteria and approval by the faculty’s research admissions panel. Once admitted, students must complete coursework components and conduct independent research under supervision, culminating in the submission of a thesis. The program duration typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 years full-time or equivalent part-time study. During the program, students are expected to attend seminars, workshops, and research training sessions to develop their research skills and knowledge in areas such as evidence-based practice, research ethics, data analysis, and scientific writing. Successful completion of the program prepares graduates for advanced research roles, doctoral studies, or careers in healthcare policy and practice improvement.

The financing of the Nursing and Midwifery (Research) program at Curtin University is primarily based on a combination of government funding, student contributions, and research grants. Domestic students often access funding through government-supported schemes such as the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) or, for international students, full fee-paying arrangements. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and specific circumstances but are generally structured to support both domestic and international students during their postgraduate research studies. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available for eligible students, including research scholarships that provide stipends and tuition fee waivers, thereby reducing the financial burden associated with postgraduate research. In addition, students may secure funding through competitive research grants obtained by supervisors, which can cover research expenses and stipends. The university also offers various external funding options, including industry-sponsored research grants and national research funding programs, which can supplement the financial resources available to students. Furthermore, students enrolled in the program often have access to university facilities and resources at subsidized rates, which helps minimize ancillary costs. The program's structure is designed to facilitate access to financial support while encouraging high-quality research in nursing and midwifery fields. Overall, the financing of this program is designed to be accessible and supportive of students from diverse financial backgrounds, with multiple pathways to secure funding for their research activities.

The Master of Nursing and Midwifery (Research) program at Curtin University offers advanced education and research opportunities for students seeking to deepen their expertise in nursing and midwifery disciplines. This program is designed for registered nurses and midwives who wish to engage in high-level research activities to contribute to evidence-based practice, healthcare improvements, and policy development. The program emphasizes a rigorous research methodology, critical thinking skills, and innovative approaches to healthcare challenges. Students undertake a substantial research project under the supervision of experienced faculty members, enabling them to develop specialized knowledge in their chosen area of interest. Topics may span various fields such as clinical nursing, community health, mental health, maternity, and pediatric nursing, among others. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, clinical research, healthcare policy, and leadership roles within the healthcare sector. Curtin University's research-intensive environment provides access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and collaboration opportunities with industry partners. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences, fostering professional development and recognition in their field. The program structure typically includes coursework components focusing on research design, ethics, data analysis, and dissemination, along with a significant research thesis. Entrance requirements usually include a relevant undergraduate degree in nursing or midwifery, along with professional experience in the healthcare sector. Graduates of this program gain a comprehensive understanding of research processes, critical evaluation skills, and the ability to translate research findings into practical healthcare improvements. The program supports lifelong learning and aims to produce researchers capable of addressing complex healthcare issues through innovative and evidence-based solutions.