Course Overview

About This Course

The Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) combines coursework with independent research, producing a thesis of 20,000-22,000 words based on original research within humanities and social sciences. Currently only available for study in Philosophy. Usually completed over 1.5 years full time (or 3 years part time), it can act as a pathway to a Doctor of Philosophy - Arts degree; students may also apply to convert to the PhD at an earlier stage. Semester 1 (March) commencement only — there is no mid-year intake.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC 3006

Open in Maps ↗

Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Tuition Fee

Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) places available

Duration

1.5 years full time / 3 years part time

Intakes

March (Semester 1 only, no mid-year intake)

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic and international (part-time enrolment not available to international students):

A four-year honours degree in a relevant discipline with a substantial research component (at least 25% of one year full-time study), minimum weighted average 70% in final year subjects (or equivalent), minimum 75% for the research component; OR
A Master's degree in a relevant discipline with a substantial research component (at least 25% of one year full-time study), minimum weighted average 70% (or equivalent), minimum 75% for the research component; OR
Equivalent qualification and professional experience as deemed by the selection committee
Endorsement of a prospective supervisor required
Selection also considers research proposal understanding, academic writing ability, interview performance, motivation, referee reports
English requirement: Band 7 (e.g. IELTS 7.0) per Faculty of Arts English language test score requirements

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Higher research and academia
Consultancy
Managerial positions
Graduates have worked at organisations including the University of Otago, Sinclair Knight Merz, Barwon Health Grace McKella Rehabilitation Centre
Develops advanced research design, analysis and dissemination skills, and understanding of research ethics and integrity

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units2 units

Coursework subjects

25 points of coursework subject(s), specific to the Philosophy specialisation.

Minor thesis subject (Philosophy specialisation)

20,000-22,000 word thesis; students enrol in the minor thesis subject for 3 semesters full time (or part-time equivalent). An H3 (65%) average is required across the thesis and advanced seminar components to qualify for the award.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What study modes are available for the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis)?

The Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar & Shorter Thesis) is available on campus at Parkville, and can be studied full time (2 years) or part time (4 years).

When does the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) start?

The course has a March intake, meaning students can commence their studies at the start of the academic year in March.

What areas of study does the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) cover?

The course allows you to pursue an area of humanities and social sciences that interests you, falling under the study area of Arts, humanities and social sciences.

How does the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) differ from other Arts master's degrees at the University of Melbourne?

The University of Melbourne offers several Arts master's pathways: the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar & Shorter Thesis), which combines advanced seminar work with a shorter thesis; the Master of Arts (Thesis only), which lets you present and argue a coherent hypothesis on your chosen issue; and the Doctor of Philosophy - Arts, where you write a thesis of independent research to earn your PhD.

Where is the Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) taught?

The course is taught on campus at the University of Melbourne's Parkville location.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $55,000 to $74,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $74,000 to $90,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $90,000 to $115,000 per year

Career Paths

Policy Analyst / Policy OfficerCommunications Officer / ManagerPublic Relations SpecialistContent Writer / CopywriterJournalist / Reporter

Key Skills

Critical thinking and analytical reasoningPersuasive written and oral communicationResearch design and qualitative/quantitative research methodsIntercultural awareness and cross-cultural communicationEthical reasoning and moral philosophy

Full Course Overview

💬

Need guidance?

Free advisor support

Our advisors help international students choose the right course and navigate visa pathways — at no cost.

Promote your Institution with Find the Courses