Master of Health Professions Education (Research)

The Master of Health Professions Education (Research) at the University of New South Wales in Sydney is designed for graduates and professionals who wish to develop advanced expertise in curriculum and instruction within health professions education. This postgraduate research degree focuses on the development, delivery, and evaluation of health education, equipping students to make significant contributions to the educational practices of health-related disciplines. Students conduct independent, original research under the supervision of experienced academics, exploring topics such as curriculum design, learning assessment, teaching methodologies, and educational leadership.

The programme typically spans two years of full-time study. Students are required to complete a substantial research thesis, contributing to scholarly work in health professions education. Rather than traditional coursework, the focus is on research training, including proposal design, data collection and analysis, critical literature review, and the practical application of findings. This degree structure aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standards for Level 9 (Master’s degree – Research) qualifications, with students developing both discipline-specific and transferable skills.

Graduates gain advanced skills in educational research methods, critical thinking, data analysis, academic writing, and effective communication within interdisciplinary health settings. The programme suits practising clinicians, educators, and administrators who wish to deepen their knowledge or transition into leadership roles in health education. Work-integrated learning may take place through research connections within healthcare and university settings, which are strengthened by UNSW Sydney’s links with major Australian hospitals and professional networks.

International students can confirm their English language proficiency through accepted tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced, as required for the Student visa. During their study, students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight and may become eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation. For up-to-date information about units of study, admission requirements, and research opportunities, prospective students should consult the official UNSW page.

• Health professions educator or academic
• Curriculum and instructional designer for health education
• Educational policy advisor within healthcare organisations
• Researcher in health professions education
• Leadership positions in hospitals, universities, and allied health training providers
• Consultant for professional development and accreditation bodies in the health sector