Course Overview

About This Course

Designed for those who have completed a Masters by coursework with a significant research component or an Australian Honours degree or equivalent, our Master of Philosophy is 100% research-focused and takes two years to complete with full-time study. Under the guidance of an experienced and supportive research supervisor, you'll plan, design and complete your own independent research project about a topic you're passionate about. You'll also have the flexibility to develop a project in an area of personal interest and relevance to your field. This degree is self-directed, with no classes or coursework requirements. You will complete progress milestones that will help to keep you on track towards completion of your thesis or creative work. Your studies will culminate with the development of a substantial thesis or creative work and exegesis, and an oral examination of your thesis or creative work and exegesis to a panel of examiners.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Adelaide City Campus, Adelaide CBD, South AustraliaMagill Campus, Magill, South AustraliaMawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South AustraliaWaite Campus, Urrbrae, South AustraliaMount Gambier Campus, Mount Gambier, South AustraliaRoseworthy Campus, Roseworthy, South AustraliaWhyalla Campus, Whyalla, South AustraliaAdelaide City, South AustraliaMagill, South AustraliaMawson Lakes, South AustraliaMount Gambier, South AustraliaRoseworthy, South AustraliaWaite, South AustraliaWhyalla, South AustraliaAUSTRALIA

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

A Master degree by coursework (AQF level 9) with weighted average mark (WAM) of ≥ 65 or a seven-point GPA of 5.0 or higher, incorporating at least 0.5 years full time (or part time equivalent) of research training in which a WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher was achieved; or
A 4-year Bachelor (Honours) (AQF level 8) or Graduate Diploma (AQF level 8) (following a bachelor or honours degree) with an overall WAM of ≥ 65 or a seven-point GPA of 5.0 or higher, incorporating at least 0.5 years full time (or part time equivalent) of research training in which a WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher was achieved; or
A Graduate Certificate (Research Skills) (AQF level 8) with an overall WAM of ≥ 75 or a seven-point GPA of 6.0 or higher, with approved professional experience; or
An equivalent combination of qualifications and experience.
The 0.5 EFTSL of research training must have included at least 50% of research on a focused topic.
You will need to demonstrate that your prior qualifications used as the basis for admission are in a discipline relevant to the proposed area of research – unless an exemption is approved by the Pro Vice Chancellor, Graduate Research Training (or delegate).
Admission to a research degree at Adelaide University is conditional on the availability of a suitable supervisory panel and resources to support the proposed project.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience for a career that requires significant research training. Whether you want to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field, leverage your expertise to win more specialised or high-paying roles, or transform research findings into innovative products or practices, earning a research degree unlocks a world of opportunities. Research drives advancement in our society and in our industries – from defence and national security to healthcare, social work, business and economics.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any coursework or classes required in the Master of Philosophy?

No, the Master of Philosophy is entirely self-directed with no classes or coursework requirements. You will complete progress milestones to help keep you on track towards completion of your thesis or creative work, and your studies will culminate with the development of a substantial thesis or creative work and exegesis, and an oral examination to a panel of examiners.

Can I study the Master of Philosophy part-time?

Yes, part-time study options may be available for Australian students, depending on the specific project areas. Where possible, you can choose to study full-time or part-time, helping you pursue your study goals without forgoing your current commitments.

Are there any fees for domestic students undertaking the Master of Philosophy?

Domestic students can complete this program with no tuition fees, and all domestic students accepted into the Master of Philosophy program at Adelaide University will receive a tuition-free place for up to two years for a Master program (or part-time equivalent). Scholarships are also available for eligible students.

When can I start the Master of Philosophy at Adelaide University?

Graduate research students can commence this degree at any time of year. However, students seeking scholarships will need to align with scholarship round offers. Advertised intake periods include January and July.

What happens if I don't meet the entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy?

If you didn't meet the entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy or Master of Research, Adelaide University offers research-focused Graduate Certificates that can help you take the next step towards your goals. These include the Graduate Certificate in Research Skills and Graduate Certificate in Research Design, which can provide a pathway to a research qualification or help you advance your career.

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!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $70,000 to $95,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $95,000 to $115,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $115,000 to $150,000 per year

Career Paths

Clinical ScientistClinical Research CoordinatorClinical Trials ManagerResearch Fellow (Clinical Science)Medical Scientist

Key Skills

Advanced research design and methodology in clinical and biomedical contextsCritical appraisal and systematic evaluation of scientific literatureQuantitative and qualitative data collection and analysisStatistical analysis and interpretation of clinical research dataScientific and academic writing, including thesis and journal article preparation

Full Course Overview

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