The Master of Applied Research (Health) is a postgraduate research degree at AQF Level 9 designed to equip students with the advanced skills needed to conduct rigorous, independent research in health and related fields. The degree typically spans one to two years full-time (or up to four years part-time) and covers foundational research methodology, ethics, project design, data analysis, and disciplinary expertise relevant to the student's chosen health focus area. Research can be pursued across a broad spectrum of health disciplines including biomedical sciences, public health, exercise and sports science, nutrition, nursing, mental health, occupational therapy, clinical psychology, and health policy evaluation. Students work closely with a dedicated academic supervisor to design, execute, and report on an original research project culminating in a thesis or major research dissertation.

This degree is particularly well-suited to health professionals, scientists, and graduates seeking to deepen their expertise, transition into health research roles, or build a pathway toward a PhD. Unlike a standard coursework master's, the Master of Applied Research places a strong emphasis on producing an original and substantial contribution to knowledge, developing students into independent research practitioners. Employers of graduates include hospitals, medical research institutes, government health departments, universities, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, public health agencies, non-government organisations, and private health consultancies.

The degree is recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Level 9 and domestic students may be eligible for tuition fee coverage under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP), making it an accessible pathway for high-achieving graduates. The breadth of health specialisations available — from molecular medicine and immunology to population health, health economics, and social determinants of wellbeing — makes it one of the most versatile advanced research qualifications in the Australian health sector.

Most Australian universities offering the Master of Applied Research (Health) require applicants to hold a completed bachelor's degree at AQF Level 7 or higher in a relevant discipline. The specific academic standing required varies across institutions, with many requiring a minimum average grade of Credit to Distinction (65–70%) in the final year of undergraduate study. Some programs accept applicants with an honours degree or a postgraduate diploma in a cognate health field. Applicants who hold a bachelor's degree without honours may be eligible if they can demonstrate at least five years of relevant clinical or industry work experience. A critical component of the application process is identifying and securing a willing academic supervisor whose research interests align with the applicant's proposed project — many institutions will not consider an application without a confirmed supervisory arrangement in place.

English language proficiency is required for all applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds. A minimum IELTS overall score of 7.0 (with no individual band below 6.5) is a common benchmark, though requirements can vary slightly between institutions. Alternative evidence such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, or completion of an Australian bachelor's degree may also be accepted. International applicants must additionally satisfy Department of Home Affairs student visa English requirements. Some programs may request a research proposal, a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, referee letters from academic or professional supervisors, and a personal statement outlining the applicant's research interests and career goals as part of the application package.

Domestic students (Australian citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens) are generally automatically considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship, which covers tuition costs under the Australian Government's scheme. This makes the degree financially accessible for eligible domestic candidates, though RTP places are competitive and awarded based on academic merit and progress requirements. Part-time candidature is available at many institutions, allowing working health professionals to balance study with employment.