Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology)

School of Philosophy & Theology

Do you have a burning passion for the study of philosophy and theology? Do you have untapped insights that you wish to share with the world? If so, a Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology) from The University of Notre Dame Australia could be your ideal degree. Designed to be completed in 18 months of full-time study, this degree consists of four practical research courses, a major research project and access to a university-based supervisor to oversee your research project. Contact us to discuss your options.

• Why study this degree?

  Here at Notre Dame, we are proud to allow you to contribute to the exploration and communication of researched inquiry about the world’s reality, knowable by reason (philosophy). In particular, our Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology) builds on a rich history of philosophical knowledge and the implications of the Church’s deposit of faith through Scripture and Tradition.

  The coursework component of this degree consists of four compulsory research training subjects to be completed as a prerequisite for your research project. These courses will give you opportunities to formulate substantial elements of your planned research and develop your critical analysis and scholarly writing competencies. This will be followed by the creation of your research piece, which must significantly contribute to the current discourse on philosophy and theology.

  When you undertake a research degree through the School of Philosophy & Theology, you will have access to supervisors who are experienced in their field and genuinely committed to your success. From the moment you undertake this exciting program, your supervisor will assist you with the preparation stages of your research proposal, guide you through the research phase and provide feedback until your thesis is submitted.

• Program summary

  To be eligible for the award of Master of Philosophy students must complete:

  • Up to 100 units of credit comprising RSCH7003 (or equivalent unit approved by the Dean)
    and up to three 25 units of credit of research training coursework courses as decided in
    consultation with the Dean or delegate.
  • A minimum of a credit average in the coursework courses is required to maintain satisfactory
    progress in the degree.
  • RSCH7003 (or equivalent course approved by the Dean) must be completed with at least a
    credit grade in the first semester of full-time or equivalent enrolment.
  • Supervised Research courses totaling 200 units of credit.

  NB. Students of the School of Philosophy and Theology Fremantle take PHTH6001 Research Methods in Philosophy and Theology in place of RSCH7003.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions pages Fremantle Sydney.

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

• Entry requirements

  Applicants will usually have to fulfil the following criteria:

  • 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.

  OR

  • 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; and
  5. Conduct research with creativity, initiative, autonomy, and accountability.

• Career opportunities

  A Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology) graduate may pursue careers in academia, industry and research organisations. Jobs include teacher, editor, market research analyst, technical writer, advertising manager, research associate, publisher, and political analyst.

• 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

  According to the Higher Education Support Act 2003, domestic research students are eligible to have all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course fees paid for by the Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) for the length of their degree. Domestic students are also encouraged to apply for both an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) and the University Postgraduate Award (UPA) offered through The University of Notre Dame Australia. These scholarships are very competitive and are awarded to students of exceptional research potential. The scholarships are for the purpose of assisting with general living costs for the duration of the research degree.

  International students

  All international research students are required to pay full fees for the length of their research degree. Please refer to the International Prospectus for current cost per year to complete a Master’s degree. All international students are encouraged to apply for the Endeavour International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (EIPRS) or the University equivalent International Fee Remission Research Scholarship (IFRRS), and both the Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) and University Postgraduate Award (UPA). The EIPRS provides annual fee remission for the successful applicant(s) and meets the cost of a standard Overseas Student Health Cover Policy for the student for the period of the course. The IFRRS covers the annual fee remission for the successful candidate; however students will need to pay for their own Overseas Student Health Cover.

• Fees and costs

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

  
  

  International Full-Fee Paying
  Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

  
  

  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.

  
  

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?

  Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session. Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.

  
  

  For more information, please contact our Prospective Students Office.

  Fremantle and Broome Phone: +61 8 9433 0533 Email: future@nd.edu.au

  Sydney and Melbourne Phone: +61 2 8204 4404 Email: sydney@nd.edu.au

  
  

  All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on international@nd.edu.au.