Postgraduate coursework academic entry requirements
What qualifications do I need?
The entry requirement for a coursework master's degree, graduate diploma or graduate certificate is usually a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Not all programs require your undergraduate studies to be in the same field as your intended postgraduate studies.
What marks should I have?
Requirements vary for different programs, but generally a strong "above average" academic record is usually required for direct entry to master's programs. If you do not have a strong record, an alternative pathway through Graduate Diploma level study may be available. Depending on your performance at this level you may be able to upgrade to master's level. Some coursework postgraduate programs may also require relevant professional experience for admission.
Further information on entry requirements for coursework programs may be found in:
- the Faculty handbooks
- the Course database
Health and security checks are also required for some courses involving fieldwork in the New South Wales hospital and education systems. See special criteria and conditions.
Research programs - Master or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
If you are applying to do a research degree, you should contact the graduate adviser in the faculty or department before making a formal application. You can contact a postgraduate adviser or visit the faculty websites to find out more about areas of research and potential supervisors.
You are usually required to submit a research proposal with your application to most research programs.
Academic entry requirements - Master's by research
Entry to a master's by research generally requires a bachelor's degree with honours at either first or second class, division one standard, or an equivalent qualification that demonstrates a sufficient level of research experience and capability.
Academic entry requirements - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Entry to a PhD usually requires a master's degree with a research component, or a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours.
Some departments require all potential PhD candidates to enrol in an appropriate master's program, with transfer to the PhD only after completion of that degree program or after at least one semester of satisfactory progress. All PhD candidates are admitted on a probationary basis for the first two semesters.