Master of Philosophy

Undertake focused research and develop expertise

Contribute to knowledge in your field through independent research and develop advanced research expertise for a future in academia, industry or other research-focused careers.

Is this pathway for you?

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is designed for people who want to:

• undertake substantial independent research
• make an original contribution to knowledge in their field
• develop advanced research expertise
• build experience for a future research career
• prepare for further doctoral research, including a PhD

What will you research?

In the MPhil, you’ll undertake independent research that contributes to knowledge in your chosen field. Your research may present new findings or offer a new perspective on existing knowledge.

• Duration: Two years full-time equivalent
• Time commitment: 35 hours per week (Full time)
• Research project: Undertake substantial independent research under expert supervision
• Thesis: Submit a thesis of up to 50,000 words for examination

The MPhil program is available in all faculties. In some disciplines, further research training or the completion of a preliminary coursework program in research preparation may be required prior to admission to candidature.

What do you need to apply?

To be considered for admission to the MPhil, you’ll need to meet one of the following requirements:

• completion of a Master of Research (MRes) with at least 65 per cent in second year
• a two-year master's degree with a major research component at Credit level (65 per cent or greater).

You’ll also need to meet the following requirements:

• demonstrate the required level of English language proficiency
• provide a detailed research proposal
• meet requirements for appropriate supervision and research resources

Peer-reviewed research outputs may also be taken into consideration as part of the admission assessment.

If you haven't completed an MRes and don't meet the admission criteria above, you may be asked to undertake the MRes as a research training pathway.

Fees and scholarships

MPhil students may be eligible for scholarships that provide financial support during their two years of research, including a stipend valued at $40,900 per annum in 2027, indexed annually.

Scholarships may include one or more of the following:

• tuition fee offset
• living allowance (stipend)
• top-up living allowance (additional funding on top of a base stipend)
• fixed sum or one-off payment
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and/or visa application costs for international students.

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Continue your research journey

Take your research further through a PhD or explore opportunities to apply your research expertise across academia, industry, government and beyond.