Master of Philosophy (Science) | UNSW Sydney

Master's Degree Philosophy Full Time

Master of Philosophy (Science)

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

119835B

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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$97,500 total

Per year

A$48,750/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Philosophy (Science) at the University of New South Wales is a two-year higher degree by research, designed for science graduates seeking advanced research training. This programme combines independent research with close academic supervision, typically culminating in a substantial thesis. Students will critically explore a scientific field of their choosing, adding original knowledge to their discipline.

Structured according to Australian postgraduate frameworks, the MPhil (Science) entails enrolment in research units with assigned credit points, in line with UNSW and national guidelines. The programme is tailored for those who want to develop strong analytical, methodological, and scientific communication skills, which are essential for science research and industry roles. Workspace access, research seminars, and possible coursework can further broaden methodological expertise.

Students benefit from UNSW’s connections to Sydney’s dynamic research sector and partnerships with government, industry, and technology organisations. While the MPhil (Science) is recognised for its focus on independent scholarly research, participants may also access professional training opportunities, and some may choose to progress to a doctoral programme afterwards. The course is well suited to those with a strong science background and a keen interest in contributing to research and innovation in Australia or internationally.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency, with IELTS Academic scores commonly ranging from 6.0 to 6.5 overall for admission, though this should be confirmed on UNSW’s official course page. Australian student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), enabling further work experience in Australia’s vibrant science sector.

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 universities, government research agencies or industry laboratories
Laboratory manager or technical specialist
Policy advisor or consultant for scientific or technical organisations
PhD or doctorate candidate in science fields
Research and development roles in biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science, or technology sectors
Project officer in science communication, analysis, or regulatory bodies
Data analyst or scientific officer in both private and public sector enterprises

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy (Science) at University of New South Wales?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$97,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist in universities, government research agencies or industry laboratoriesLaboratory manager or technical specialistPolicy advisor or consultant for scientific or technical organisationsPhD or doctorate candidate in science fieldsResearch and development roles in b...

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