Master's Degree Physics Full Time

Master of Research (Applied Physics)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

111934H

CRICOS provider code

00121B

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$88,600 total

Per year

A$43,058/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Research (Applied Physics) at Adelaide University is a rigorous postgraduate programme designed for those seeking advanced expertise and research capabilities in the field of applied physics. Over two years of full-time study, students engage with both theoretical and experimental aspects of physics, gaining deep insight into areas such as materials science, optics, quantum mechanics, and computational modelling. The curriculum develops research and analytical skills through foundational coursework before focusing on an independent research project or thesis under academic supervision.

Australian qualifications of this type typically comprise several units of study, each assessed by credit points, with students required to complete a set number of credits for graduation. The Master of Research places a strong emphasis on research training, culminating in a substantial capstone project or thesis that demonstrates the candidate's ability to undertake independent and original research. Students often benefit from close links to research institutes, industry partners, and interdisciplinary projects relevant to Australia’s strong advanced manufacturing, defence, and technology sectors.

Throughout the programme, students strengthen their analytical, problem-solving, scientific communication, and laboratory skills, as well as research methodology and critical evaluation. The degree suits graduates with a physics or related science background who aspire to a career in research, development, or further doctoral studies. International students in Australia on a Student visa are entitled to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency; the university accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and equivalent qualifications. Prospective students should confirm details, including credit structures and entry requirements, on the official Adelaide University website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Research scientist in public or private research organisations
Applied physicist in manufacturing, defence, or aerospace industries
Technical consultant in engineering and technology sectors
Laboratory manager or technician in scientific facilities
Further doctoral research in physics or related disciplines

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Research (Applied Physics) at Adelaide University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$88,600 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist in public or private research organisationsApplied physicist in manufacturing, defence, or aerospace industriesTechnical consultant in engineering and technology sectorsLaboratory manager or technician in scientific facilitiesFurther doctoral research in physic...

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