The Master of Health Research is a postgraduate qualification designed to develop advanced expertise in the design, conduct, and translation of health research. The course equips students with rigorous theoretical and practical capabilities in epidemiology, biostatistics, quantitative and qualitative research methods, health policy, research ethics, and evidence-based practice. Students learn to plan and implement substantial research projects, critically analyse complex health data, and communicate findings to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. The degree sits at AQF Level 9 and typically spans 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study, with part-time and online modes available at many Australian institutions.

This course is designed for health professionals, scientists, and graduates who wish to move into or deepen their involvement in health research. It suits those working in clinical settings, public health agencies, government departments, universities, and non-government organisations who want to develop the skills needed to lead evidence-based research programs. Graduates are equipped for roles in academia, medical research institutes, hospitals, community health organisations, government health departments, international health agencies, and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

Employers of graduates include federal and state health departments, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), major hospital networks and academic medical centres, the CSIRO, cancer councils, heart foundations, private research consultancies, and international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO). The degree also serves as a recognised pathway to Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs, including the PhD.

Typical entry into a Master of Health Research requires applicants to hold a bachelor's degree at AQF Level 7 in a health-related or relevant field, generally with a minimum average grade of 60–65% in the final year of study. Many programs prefer or require an honours degree or graduate diploma, particularly for programs with a strong research thesis component. Some programs accept applicants who hold a bachelor's degree without honours if they can demonstrate substantial professional experience — commonly five or more years of clinical or health industry work experience — in lieu of formal research credentials. Applicants are assessed on both their academic record and the alignment of their proposed research interests with available supervisory expertise at the institution.

For international applicants, English language proficiency must be demonstrated through recognised tests. The most common minimum requirements are an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0), or equivalent scores in PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT. Some institutions accept combined results from two test sittings within a six-month period. All applicants are typically required to submit academic transcripts, a statement of research interests or intent, and a curriculum vitae. For thesis-based programs, applicants may also be required to identify a potential research supervisor prior to application and submit a preliminary research proposal. Domestic students enrolled in research-based programs may be eligible for tuition fee offsets through the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP).