Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is an internationally recognised masters (by research) degree. Over an eighteen month (to two year) period students complete a thesis, approximately 30,000 words in length, based on independent and sustained research. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship.
Entry Requirements
Applicants are normally required to have achieved an overall H1 (80-100%) or H2A (75-79%) grade in a relevant four-year honours or masters degree from an Australian university. Or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered to be equivalent.
Applicants are normally required to have completed a research project/component that accounts for at least 25% of their year’s work at 4th year or at masters level.
Based on interview or other communication, an assessment should be made of the level of understanding, motivation and time commitment of the student for the proposed program of study. For example, a full-time student would be expected to devote at least 40 hours a week and a part-time student about half of this.
Click here for additional information regarding the entry requirements for the MPhil. Applicants are also required to meet the University's English language requirements.
Degree Structure
All candidates for the MPhil will be examined on the basis of their thesis. All MPhil candidates are required to complete the equivalent of at least 6 months full-time (12 months part-time) advanced study and research at the University (unless studying at an approved outside institution).
Candidates should aim to write a thesis of approximately 30,000-35,000 words.
How to Apply
Before applying, it is important you speak with the school to ensure the best possible alignment with your expectations.
STEP 1: Consider the Following Questions:
Have you considered other graduate research degree options, such as a PhD or other Research Masters (The School of Nursing and Social Work also offers the Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) degree)?
Do you meet the requirements for the degree you’re interested in?
Have you investigated scholarships and fees?
Have you considered the transition issues surrounding a return to student life?
STEP 2: Find a Supervisor
Before submitting a formal application, it is essential that you identify and speak with a potential supervisor or postgraduate coordinator. You can type your area of interest into our Find an Expert database to identify academics at Melbourne and their contact details. Or you can browse the Research Report which lists the published work of supervisors, previous students and research currently underway.
STEP 3: Complete an Application Form
NB: International applicants should check the International Centre's website for application details.
STEP 4: Gather the Required Admission Information
You will need:
- A 600 word written proposal, which includes:
* Background literature and aims
* The research question(s)
* The proposed method including ethical considerations, data collection, sampling and data analysis
* An argument for the relevance of the study to social work
* A time line for completion - Original or certified copies (see below) of official transcripts, including full details of all courses undertaken, completed and grades obtained.
- A copy of your CV, which includes details of published papers, if any; details of any experience since graduation which is relevant to the proposed field of research.
- Two academic referee reports
- A statement of research interests and experience.
- Evidence of any government financial support or other scholarship offered.
- Original or certified certificate of IELTS or TOEFL tests of English as a foreign language (except those from countries where English is the official language or those who have undertaken studies in a country where English is the official language).
STEP 5: Submit Your Application to:
Dr Monica Wehner
Student and Research Programs Manager
School of Nursing and Social Work
The University of Melbourne
Level 5, 234 Queensberry St, Carlton VIC 3010
Email: mwehner@unimelb.edu.au
Phone: +61 3 8344 9430