The Master of Philosophy (Indigenous) — commonly abbreviated as MPhil (Indigenous) — is a higher degree by research (HDR) qualification at the AQF Level 9 that provides students with the opportunity to complete a significant, independent research thesis centred on Indigenous Australian issues, knowledge systems, cultures, and experiences. Unlike coursework master's degrees, this program is predominantly research-driven: at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research activity, culminating in a substantial written thesis that makes an original contribution to the field. Students work under the guided supervision of experienced academic panels and engage with Indigenous knowledge frameworks, critical methodologies, decolonising research approaches, and a wide array of disciplinary lenses including history, law, health, education, environmental studies, policy, and social sciences. The program typically spans two years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) and is grounded in Indigenous pedagogy and terms of reference.

This qualification is designed for individuals who wish to deepen their scholarly expertise in Indigenous studies and make a meaningful, original contribution to research in this field. It suits both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students seeking to advance their communities' interests through rigorous academic inquiry and non-Indigenous students committed to working alongside First Peoples with cultural respect and competency. Employers who seek graduates from this qualification include federal and state government departments (such as the National Indigenous Australians Agency), land councils, community-controlled organisations, universities and research institutes, the CSIRO, non-government organisations, policy think tanks, health services, schools, and media organisations with an Indigenous affairs focus.

Applicants to the Master of Philosophy (Indigenous) are typically required to hold an approved Honours degree (First Class or upper Second Class Honours, i.e. H2A) or a postgraduate diploma with well-above-average marks — commonly an average above 70% (Credit average or better) — in a relevant field such as Indigenous studies, anthropology, history, education, law, health, social work, environmental studies, or social sciences. Some institutions also accept a Graduate Diploma at AQF Level 8 as a qualifying qualification. Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal outlining their intended area of investigation, demonstrate the feasibility of the project, and identify a suitable supervisory arrangement. The candidate's potential to undertake independent research, the quality of their proposal, the availability of appropriate supervisors, and strong referee reports are all considered as part of the selection process. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants who can demonstrate professional experience, cultural expertise in Indigenous Knowledges, or kinship connections — and who show capacity to undertake an independent research project on Indigenous Knowledges — may be considered under alternative entry provisions at many institutions.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0), or an equivalent result in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or other accepted tests. Australian citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens who are accepted into an MPhil program are generally eligible for a tuition fee exemption under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP) for up to two years of full-time study, making this qualification highly accessible from a financial standpoint. Competitively awarded living stipends are also available at many institutions. Some universities offer flexible entry considerations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants with relevant lived and professional experience, recognising that community expertise and cultural knowledge are valid forms of research preparation.