Start building today!
Experience the Find the courses and unlock the true potential
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) offered through the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) is a two-year, full-time research degree classified under Natural and Physical Sciences. It is one of Australia's most distinctive higher degree research programs, uniquely dedicated to exploring the relationship between science and society. Rather than conducting bench science, students investigate how science is communicated, perceived, and governed — producing original research in the form of a thesis of up to 60,000 words, independently examined by at least two international experts. Research topics span a wide terrain, from climate change and energy communication to science in digital media, public trust in research institutions, genetics education in classrooms, and the role of science in policy development.
The program is housed within CPAS, the leading centre in Australia — and one of the first globally — for research, education, and practice in science communication and engagement. Its mission is to foster democratic ownership of modern science by increasing public awareness, promoting dialogue about science and technology, and improving the communication capabilities of scientists. Students work under the close supervision of internationally recognised academics and are embedded in a vibrant research community alongside PhD candidates and science communication scholars. Candidates are required to audit a core unit in Research Methods in Science Communication in their first year, ensuring a solid methodological foundation before proceeding with their independent research.
Graduates of this MPhil are highly valued across a range of public and private sector employers, including government science agencies (such as CSIRO, Geoscience Australia, and the Australian Institute of Marine Science), federal and state government departments, science museums and cultural institutions (such as Questacon, the Australian Museum, and Museums Victoria), universities, environmental NGOs, media organisations, and science-based industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy. The degree serves as both a standalone qualification and a stepping stone to doctoral study.
Australia faces a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between the scientific community and the broader public. In an era of rapid technological change, climate urgency, and public health challenges, the ability to communicate science clearly, ethically, and strategically is more critical than ever. Employers across government, industry, media, and the community sector are actively seeking graduates who can translate complex research into public-facing narratives, inform policy, and engage diverse audiences — skills that sit at the heart of this MPhil. The importance of science communication has only continued to increase globally, and the MPhil in this field equips graduates with the research credentials and practical insight to lead in this space.
There is also a significant skills gap in Australia: while there are many trained scientists, there are relatively few with the advanced research expertise to study, critique, and improve how science reaches the public. This MPhil addresses that gap directly, producing graduates capable of designing and leading science communication research, advising organisations on engagement strategy, and contributing to science policy at national and international levels. The credential also opens doors to an academic career, as it provides a recognised pathway to PhD study in science communication, one of the world's fastest-growing interdisciplinary research fields.
Applicants to this MPhil program are typically required to hold an Australian Bachelor degree with at least Second Class Honours (Upper Division, H2A), with First Class Honours often preferred, or an equivalent international qualification. Alternatively, a degree with a significant research or thesis component, or a combination of qualifications, relevant research publications, and professional experience in a related field may be considered as equivalent. All applicants must submit a detailed research proposal (up to 2,000 words) outlining their proposed project, background literature, research aim, and draft research questions, as well as an up-to-date curriculum vitae and at least two academic referee reports. Crucially, applicants must also secure the written approval of an identified academic supervisor before their application can proceed — this requires prospective candidates to explore CPAS research themes and approach a suitable supervisor directly prior to applying.
Admission to this program is competitive, meaning that meeting all stated requirements does not guarantee a place. Entry is also subject to supervisory capacity and the availability of appropriate infrastructure. For English language proficiency, international applicants are required to demonstrate an IELTS overall band score of at least 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 in all sub-bands), or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80 (with minimum component scores in reading, writing, listening, and speaking). Domestic applicants from Australian universities are exempt from English language testing requirements. All accepted candidates are required to complete Research Integrity Training as part of their enrolment, and domestic students who meet entry requirements may be eligible for a Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset scholarship through the Australian Government, which can cover tuition fees for the duration of the degree.
This course may be offered in different study modes depending on the university, campus location, course structure and student type. Students should check the available delivery mode before applying, as not every study option is available at every institution.
On-campus study is the traditional mode of delivery where students attend classes, lectures, tutorials, workshops or seminars at the university campus. This option may suit students who prefer face-to-face learning, access to campus facilities, networking with classmates, practical workshops, group projects and direct engagement with academic staff.
Some universities may offer programs fully online or with online subject options. Online study can be attractive for students who need flexibility due to work, family, location or other commitments. Online study may suit domestic students, working professionals or students who want to study from outside Australia.
Hybrid or blended study usually combines online learning with some on-campus classes, workshops, intensive sessions or practical components. This mode may suit students who want flexibility but still want some face-to-face interaction. The exact structure varies between institutions.
Programs in Australia may have different intake structures depending on the university. The most common intake systems are semester, trimester and block mode.
Many Australian universities follow a two-semester academic calendar. The main intakes are commonly Semester 1 (around February or March) and Semester 2 (around July). Semester-based study usually allows students to complete a set number of subjects over approximately 12 to 14 weeks.
Some universities use a trimester system, which generally provides three study periods a year — around February/March, June/July and October/November. Trimester study may provide more flexibility and may help some students complete their course faster.
Some institutions may offer selected subjects or programs in block mode, where students focus on one subject at a time over a shorter, more intensive teaching period. Block mode may suit students who prefer concentrated learning or working professionals managing study around employment.
Some online or professionally focused programs may offer more frequent start dates or flexible entry points throughout the year. Students should not assume that every course has monthly or multiple intakes — availability depends on the institution, course structure and student type.
Graduates of this MPhil are well positioned for careers across a diverse range of sectors where the ability to research, analyse, and improve how science reaches the public is in high demand. Key employers include federal and state government science agencies (CSIRO, Geoscience Australia, AIMS, the Bureau of Meteorology), health and research funding bodies (NHMRC, ARC), environmental organisations, universities, science museums and cultural institutions, media organisations, NGOs, and the private sector in industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, mining, and clean energy. Many graduates also continue to doctoral study and pursue academic or research leadership careers in universities and research institutes. The growing profile of science communication as a professional field means that MPhil-level credentials are increasingly sought for senior advisory, management, and policy roles.
Entry Level
Graduate / Assistant
Graduate Science Communicator, Research Assistant (Science Communication), Junior Communications Officer, Science Outreach Assistant, Graduate Policy Officer
Early Career
Officer / Coordinator
Science Communication Officer, Public Engagement Coordinator, Science Journalism Correspondent, Community Engagement Officer, Science Education Officer, Policy Officer (Science & Research)
Mid-Level
Adviser / Specialist
Senior Science Communication Officer, Research Communications Adviser, Science Policy Analyst, Environmental Communication Specialist, Senior Public Engagement Officer, Science Media Adviser
Senior Level
Manager / Senior Adviser
Science Communication Manager, Head of Public Engagement, Senior Policy Adviser (Science), Research Impact and Engagement Manager, Editorial Manager (Science Media), Communications Director (Research Institution)
Leadership
Director / Head / Principal
Director of Science Communication, Head of Research Engagement, Chief Science Communicator, Principal Research Officer, Director of Public Affairs (Science Agency), Professor / Research Centre Director (Academic)
Salaries for science communication and related roles in Australia vary by sector, location, and level of experience, with university and government positions typically offering structured pay scales plus superannuation.
Melbourne
Melbourne is home to a thriving science, health research, and cultural sector, with major employers including Museums Victoria, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, CSIRO's national offices, and numerous universities — making it an excellent city for science communication graduates to find roles in research engagement, science media, and museum education. The city's vibrant arts and media scene also supports opportunities in science journalism, documentary production, and public science events.
Sydney
Sydney offers strong opportunities for MPhil graduates in science communication through its concentration of federal government agencies, major research hospitals, leading universities, media broadcasters (including the ABC and SBS), and institutions such as the Australian Museum and CSIRO Sydney — all of which regularly employ science communication and public engagement professionals. Sydney's large pharmaceutical, biotech, and technology sector also presents opportunities for science communication roles in industry.
Brisbane
Brisbane's growing research sector, anchored by major universities and the Queensland Government's focus on science and innovation, provides a dynamic environment for graduates interested in environmental communication, health research engagement, and government science policy. The city's proximity to unique natural environments such as the Great Barrier Reef also supports specialised roles in environmental and conservation science communication.
Perth
Perth's strong mining, resources, and environmental science industries create niche demand for science communication specialists who can engage technical and public audiences on topics such as energy transition, climate science, and biodiversity — and salary data for science communication roles in Western Australia averages among the highest in the country. The city also has a growing research infrastructure supported by several universities and government science agencies.
Adelaide
Adelaide is home to significant science and defence research institutions, including institutions focused on space, medical research, and agricultural science, creating targeted opportunities for MPhil graduates in science communication, policy, and engagement. The city's lower cost of living and collaborative research culture make it an attractive base for early-career researchers and science communicators.
Canberra
Canberra is the natural home base for graduates of this MPhil, hosting the program's originating institution, as well as the largest concentration of federal government science agencies, policy departments, and national cultural institutions in Australia — including CSIRO, Geoscience Australia, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, Questacon, the National Museum of Australia, and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The city offers unparalleled access to science policy roles, government communication positions, and academic research careers, making it the premier destination for graduates seeking to work at the intersection of science, government, and society.
Before choosing a course, students should compare:
International students who want to study in Australia should also consider additional requirements before applying.
Join successful graduates
Students Helped
Application Processed
Listed Universities
Listed Courses
