Master of Philosophy

Course information for - 2026 entry
International
  • Domestic
  • International

Offered at 6 locations
  • Ballarat
  • Brisbane
  • Canberra
  • Melbourne
  • North Sydney
  • Strathfield

Duration
2 years full-time or equivalent part-time
CRICOS Code
017784A
IELTS
6.5 overall score (including individual scores of 6.0 for all tests)
Fees (first year)*
$34728
Start dates
January 2026, July 2026, January 2027, July 2027, January 2028, July 2028

Overview

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a two year full-time (or part-time equivalent) research degree in a field covered by the University, including theology and philosophy, nursing and midwifery, education, business or arts and sciences. It is assessed on the basis of a written thesis which is submitted at the conclusion of the degree.

Course details

Course structure

Graduate statement

Insight

As an ACU graduate you have personal insight founded on an understanding of who you are as a professional, a citizen and a scholar. You embrace change and growth through critical self-awareness and learning autonomy. You are empowered to seek truth and meaning, drawing on the principles of justice, equity, and the dignity of all human beings.

Empathy

As an ACU graduate you value human dignity and diversity. This appreciation is founded on deep reflection, and empathy. You have experience of Indigenous Knowings and perspectives and can engage respectfully when working alongside Australia's First Peoples. You can connect with people and cultures and work with community in ways that recognise the dignity of the human person and all cultures

Imagination

As an ACU graduate you utilise imagination and innovation to solve problems. You critically analyse information from a range of sources to creatively solve practical problems and use critical thinking to make decisions and advance the common good. You appreciate the role of innovation and creative thinking in developing a better future for each person and community.

Impact

As an ACU graduate you recognise your responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world founded on a commitment to human dignity and the common good. You lead change through respectful collaboration and effective communication of ideas to diverse peoples, groups and communities in local and global contexts. You are empowered to positively impact your profession and the community.

AQF framework

Masters (Research) - AQF Level 9

Entry requirements

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for Admission to the course applicants must evidence as per Section 5 of the Higher Degree Research Policy:

a) an Australian undergraduate degree with Honours (Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF level 8) at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average) or international equivalent; or

b) a Masters degree by research (Distinction average) successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field; or

c) a Masters degree by coursework (Distinction average) with appropriate research training including a substantial component of original research, successfully completed in a relevant discipline or related field; or

d) a qualification equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 completed to at least distinction average with appropriate research training including a substantial component of original research in a relevant discipline or related field; or

e) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants with professional experience or cultural expertise in Indigenous Knowledges or kinship connections and who demonstrate capacity to undertake an independent research project on Indigenous Knowledges; or

f) other professional experience demonstrating research training equivalent to AQF level 8 or 9 and capacity to undertake an independent research project.

Meeting the eligibility requirements for admission is not in itself a guarantee of admission. The candidate’s potential to undertake research, the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the availability of appropriate supervision and the referee’s reports will all be taken into consideration (refer to section 6 of the Higher Degree Research Policy).

International applicants need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as published by the University (refer Appendix C of the Higher Degree Research Policy).

Disclaimer: The course entry requirements above are for 2026 Admission.

International applicants

A candidate for the degree of Master of Philosophy must comply with the Research and Professional Doctorate Degree Regulations.

An applicant for admission to candidature for the degree of Master of Philosophy must have completed one of the following:

  1. An appropriate undergraduate degree with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average); or
  2. Postgraduate research training (eg coursework completed to distinction level or higher or a master-by-coursework degree); or
  3. Demonstrated research experience with evidence of capacity to undertake independent research work (eg an authored publication).

Meeting the eligibility requirements for admission is not in itself a guarantee of admission. The candidate’s potential to undertake research, the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the availability of appropriate supervision and the referee’s reports will all be taken into consideration. Please refer to the Higher Degree Research Policy.

English language requirements

If applicants have an overseas qualification/s from an institution where English is not the standard language of instruction, they will need to meet ACU’s English proficiency requirements, e.g Academic IELTS 6.5 (including individual scores of 6.0 for all tests). Refer to Appendix C of the Higher Degree Research Policy.

Inherent requirement

The eligibility criteria for admission into the Master of Philosophy are stipulated in section 5 the Higher Degree Research Policy.

Fees

Course costs

  • Unit fee: $4341
  • Average first year fee: $34728
  • Estimate total cost: $69456

Scholarships

ACU offers a number of scholarships to domestic and international research candidates. Information about these scholarships, including the application process is available here.

How to apply

International applicants

Direct application

Apply now

Note: International student applications are lodged through the International Office.

Please contact international.admissions@acu.edu.au with enquiries if you are an international student.

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