The Master of Philosophy (Drama) is a postgraduate research degree that allows students to undertake a deep, original investigation into a specific area of dramatic arts — spanning theatre history, performance theory, dramaturgy, playwriting, directing, applied theatre, or screen and digital performance. Unlike coursework-based master's degrees, the MPhil (Drama) is primarily research-driven: students work closely with an academic supervisor to develop, execute, and present a substantial research project, typically culminating in a 40,000–50,000-word thesis or a practice-led equivalent combining creative work with a critical exegesis. The degree is designed for those who wish to push the boundaries of what is known or practised in the dramatic arts, and it sits firmly at the intersection of scholarly inquiry and creative practice.

This degree suits high-achieving graduates from drama, theatre studies, performance studies, creative writing, screen studies, or related humanities disciplines who want to produce specialised academic or creative research at an advanced level. It is equally appropriate for experienced arts practitioners — directors, playwrights, actors, dramaturgs, or educators — who wish to formalise and deepen their professional knowledge through rigorous enquiry. Students are expected to work independently, with personalised guidance from a supervisory team, and to make a genuine contribution to the field of dramatic arts knowledge.

Key employers of MPhil (Drama) graduates include universities and TAFE institutes, state and national theatre companies (such as the Melbourne Theatre Company, Sydney Theatre Company, Queensland Theatre, and State Theatre Company of South Australia), screen and media production organisations, arts funding bodies such as the Australia Council for the Arts and state arts councils, community arts organisations, festival programmers, cultural institutions, and secondary and tertiary education sectors. Some graduates go on to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) as the next step in an academic or research career.

To be admitted to an MPhil (Drama) at an Australian university, applicants typically need a Bachelor's degree with Honours (AQF Level 8), usually at the level of Second Class Honours Division A (2A) or above, in drama, theatre, performance studies, or a closely related discipline. Some institutions accept applicants with an ungraded bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) accompanied by evidence of significant scholarly or professional attainments in the performing arts that demonstrate equivalent research preparation. Applicants are generally required to identify and make prior contact with a potential academic supervisor whose research interests align with the proposed project, as admission is also contingent on the availability of suitable supervision and institutional resources.

A detailed research proposal is a mandatory component of the application for most Australian institutions. This proposal typically outlines the research question or creative focus, the theoretical and methodological framework, a preliminary literature review, and the intended contribution to knowledge. For practice-led projects, applicants may also be required to submit a portfolio of creative work — such as scripts, production documentation, or creative writing samples — demonstrating their artistic capacity and readiness for advanced research. Some universities additionally require a written personal statement and referees' reports from academic or professional supervisors.

English language proficiency requirements apply to all applicants who have not completed their previous degree in English. Most Australian universities require an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or other recognised tests. The MPhil is typically completed over 1.5 to 2 years full-time, or up to 4 years part-time, and is assessed entirely on the basis of a thesis or practice-led equivalent, with no formal coursework subjects required in most programs.