Master's Degree Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Master of Research

at Victoria University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

099080K

CRICOS provider code

00124K

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

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$62,612 total

Per year

A$41,741/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Research at Victoria University in Melbourne is an advanced degree focused on independent research training within the Social Sciences & Psychology. Students complete core units introducing them to qualitative and quantitative research methods, ethics, and scholarly communication. The programme centres around a major research thesis, where students propose and conduct an original research project under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. This thesis is supported by coursework covering critical literature review, methodology, project planning, and data analysis.

At most Australian universities, including Victoria University, a master’s degree of this kind takes 1.5 years full-time and is structured as a mix of coursework and a substantial thesis. Students accrue credit points over the duration, generally linked to both taught units and the research component. Those aiming for a research or academic career often see this as preparation for further study, such as a doctoral degree.

Graduates develop skills in project management, analytical thinking, research methodology, and academic writing. The course suits those who want to conduct publishable research or advance their expertise in a social sciences or psychology discipline. It appeals to those considering academic, policy, or research-based professional roles, or aiming to pursue a PhD.

Victoria University’s Melbourne location offers access to local industry networks and research institutes. Work-integrated learning is not a core part of this research degree, but students can engage with community or organisational stakeholders relevant to their research topics. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation. For full course and entry requirements, refer to the university’s official page.

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

Policy analyst in government or NGOs
Social researcher in academic or consultancy settings
Research and development roles in public agencies
Program evaluator in health or social services
Further study towards a PhD

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Research at Victoria University?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$62,612 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy analyst in government or NGOsSocial researcher in academic or consultancy settingsResearch and development roles in public agenciesProgram evaluator in health or social servicesFurther study towards a PhD

Apply View university