Master of Philosophy (Science)
What you’ll study
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in the Faculty of Science will allow you to pursue research from the many fields in which the faculty has expertise. Candidates will complete the degree in one to two years during which time they will undertake research culminating in the submission of an 50,000 word thesis.
The MPhil (Science) program will provide you with substantial research experience and will give you a competitive edge and enhanced employment opportunities, both in Australia and overseas. If you choose to continue with research, the MPhil (Science) will give you excellent preparation to embark on the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Research areas
Master of Philosophy candidates in the Faculty of Science may undertake research in the following areas:
- Chemistry (including medicinal chemistry and drug discovery)
- Geosciences (including geology, geography, geology, marine science and environment)
- History and Philosophy of Science
- Life and Environmental Sciences (including agriculture, animal science, biology, biochemistry, microbiology and plant science)
- Mathematics & Statistics (including pure and applied mathematics)
- Physics (including astronomy and data science)
- Psychology
- Veterinary Science
Discover how to apply and find your potential research project and supervisor.
Learn more about research areas in science.
Completion requirement
Thesis submission requirements and examination procedure as set out in the Academic Board resolutions for this course and the Higher Degree (HDR) Rule 2011
Fees
Admission criteria
How to apply
Before applying
- Find a supervisor within the University whose academic background aligns with your research. You may visit Find a Researcher or Research Supervisor Connect to start.
- Contact a research supervisor via email and provide: your academic/educational background and research experience with examples such as an academic transcript your CV/resume the area of interest for your PhD why you believe your research topics align with this supervisor
- In conjunction with your supervisor, develop a research proposal, 2-4 pages in length (at least 1000 words) that outlines the subject area, objectives and significance of your research. More information
- Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements.
- If you intend to study part-time towards a PhD (international student visa holders must enroll full-time), you will also need to supply: evidence that shows you will have sufficient time available to plan and carry out the research under the supervision of the University, and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time PhD enrolment a declaration from your employer (if relevant) confirming that you will be permitted to take the time required to effectively pursue your studies.
- Submit your application along with your research proposal, CV, academic referee reports, academic transcripts, supporting evidence (where required) and other supporting documents such as identification and evidence of residency status. Applications are made via the University's online application portal.
- When you are ready to apply, select the `Apply Now' button on the right hand side of this page.
Please note: Except for IPRS and UsydIS scholarships for international students, you must complete a separate scholarship application
Submit application
There are four research periods each year when you can start your study with us.
We accept applications all year round and recommend that you apply at least six to eight weeks prior to the start date to allow adequate time for processing and, if necessary, your visa application.
If your application cannot be processed in time, it will be considered for the next possible research period.
Please see our 'How to Apply' website for detailed information.
Starting date
Research Period 1: Start date 1 Jan
Research Period 2: Start date 1 Mar
Research Period 3: Start date 1 Jul
Research Period 4: Start date 1 Oct
Refer to key research dates on the How to Apply website.
