Master of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences)

School of Arts & Sciences

Do you dream of undertaking original research but feel you need guidance to complete such an enterprise? If so, The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Master of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences) could be an ideal degree for you. This program combines four coursework units, a significant research project and access to university-based supervisors to oversee your research project. Suitable for applicants who have completed their undergraduate program with high credits and demonstrate a potential to complete research-based study. Contact us to find out more.

• Why study this degree?

  If you have performed exceptionally well in your undergraduate studies you may wish to undertake a research project in an area of particular interest. Each candidate is assigned two university-based supervisors who will provide support and academic guidance throughout this program's coursework and research components. During the coursework stage, your supervisors will assist with the early preparation of your research proposal and continue to offer guidance throughout the research phase until your thesis is examined.

  The Master of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences) can be completed in 18 months of full-time or part-time study. Candidates will usually complete the four coursework subjects within the first full-time semester. An average grade of Credit in the coursework is a prerequisite for proceeding to the research component of the program. The schedule considers the fact that you may be working full-time or have other commitments during their enrolment.

  Just remember that you must discuss your application with a suitably qualified academic staff member, preferably one you wish to be your principal research supervisor, before applying to enrol in a Master of Philosophy.

• Program summary

  • Coursework component
  • Supervised research

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

  Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Entry requirements

  Applicants must fulfil the following requirements:

  • Possess an undergraduate degree from a recognised university, which has been completed at a high credit standard and which demonstrates the applicant’s potential to undertake and complete research-based study.
  • Have an equivalent academic background or extensive professional experience that is considered by the Dean of the School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Master's level.
  • Candidates may be required to satisfy the Dean of the School of the ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Master of Philosophy, graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply high level cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialised research project that makes a contribution to knowledge, professional practice and/or creative practice
  2. Investigate, analyse, synthesise, and critically reflect on complex information, problems and concepts and apply established theories in the context of an advanced body of knowledge and practice
  3. Disseminate research findings, communicating a coherent and sustained argument effectively, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
  4. Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings
  5. Conduct research with creativity, initiative, autonomy, and accountability.

• Career opportunities

  Master of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences) graduates may pursue careers in industry, academia and research organisations. Fields include journalism and media, government and public administration, computing, law, education and research.

• Real-world experience

  You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

• Scholarships

  Domestic Students

  In accordance with the Commonwealth Scholarships Guidelines (Research) 2017, most domestic research students are eligible to have all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course fees paid for by the Commonwealth Government through a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship the maximum duration of the enrolment time published on the program requirement. Domestic students are also encouraged to apply for stipend scholarships, which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential. The scholarships designed to help with general living costs for the duration of the research degree.

  International Students

  The University is keen to support high calibre international students through the Commonwealth Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships (Fees Offset and/or Stipend), or the University International Fee Remission Research Scholarship (IFRRS), which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential. Please refer to the International Prospectus or visit our Scholarships section if you would like more information. Unless in receipt of a scholarship, all international research students must pay full fees for the length of their research degree.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  Research Training Program (RTP)
  The Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to support students who are undertaking a Higher Degree by Research such as a Research Doctorate or Research Masters degree. You will receive support for a maximum of two years for a Research Masters and a maximum of four years for a Research Doctorate degree. Your offer will specify for which purpose(s) your grant may be used. This may include offset of your tuition fees, as a stipend for general living costs or as an allowance related to the ancillary cost of research degrees.

  For indicative fees and information on Postgraduate and Research Scholarships available, please visit our HDR Scholarships page.

• More information

  View application steps for a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program on How to apply - Graduate research.

  Considering your uni options?
  Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

  Fremantle and Broome
  Email: future@nd.edu.au
  Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

  Sydney and Melbourne
  Email: sydney@nd.edu.au
  Address: 128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008

  International students
  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, fill out our Make an Enquiry form, and you can book a session with one of our friendly International Student Advisors.

  Fremantle and Broome International Office
  Phone: +61 8 9433 0873
  Address: 19 Mouat St, Fremantle, WA 6160
  Postal address: PO Box 1225, Fremantle WA 6959

  Sydney and Melbourne International Office
  Phone: +61 2 8204 4229
  Address: 140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008
  Postal address: PO Box 944, Broadway NSW 2007