Graduate Research Degrees
What is a 'Graduate Research Degree'?
Graduate Research Degrees (also known as Research Higher Degrees) involve sustained independent enquiry, carried out under the direction of a supervising academic. Assessment is predominantly based on a piece of autonomous written work - the research component of these degrees is at least 66%.
What options are available?
The table below provides an overview of the different graduate research degrees available. This is a guide only and variation does exist between faculties.
Title |
Description |
Articulation |
Length/Mode (full time)* |
Prerequisite |
How to apply (Australian students) |
Independent and sustained research on a particular topic conducted under academic supervision. The research is expected to make a significant new contribution to the discipline. May contain limited coursework. Students produce an 80,000-word thesis, which is externally examined. |
|
Three to four years |
Four-year honours degree of high standard or a qualification and experience judged to be equivalent. Applicants are normally required to have completed a research project / component that accounts for at least 25% of their year's work at fourth year or at masters level. |
Through the Melbourne School of Graduate Research |
|
Doctorate - Professional |
Provides specialised professional training to advance practice and knowledge in a specific area. Doctorates are provided through coursework and research. |
|
Three years |
Honours or Masters degree in relevant area or equivalent. Professional experience may be required. |
Visit the relevant faculty page |
An internationally recognised masters (by research) degree. Students develop advanced skills in conducting independent and sustained research. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship. |
May convert to a PhD |
Eighteen months to two years |
Applicants are normally required to have completed at least a four-year honours degree of high standard from an Australian university, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered to be equivalent. |
Through the Melbourne School of Graduate Research |
|
(Other) Masters by Research |
Independent and sustained research on a particular topic conducted under academic supervision. May contain up to 30% coursework. Students produce a thesis of at least 30,000 words, which is externally examined. |
May convert to a PhD |
One to two years |
Honours degree of high standard or a qualification and experience judged to be equivalent. |
Visit the relevant faculty page |
*please enquire with the relevant faculty whether part-time options are available.
NB: International applicants should visit the International Centre website for application details.
How will a graduate research degree help my career?
Graduate research enables you to pursue your passion in a wide range of areas including academia, research, publishing or entrepreneurship. You will develop a broad range of transferable skills, such as the ability to communicate, analyse, think critically and synthesise and evaluate knowledge - all of which are highly valued by employers. You graduate a recognised expert, capable of making a distinct contribution to your chosen field. Read more about career outcomes. Read about how we foster research commercialisation.
Why choose the University of Melbourne?
The University of Melbourne is recognised internationally as a leader in research and for the breadth and quality of our graduate research programs. As one of our students, you will have access to an unparalleled array of opportunities to work with leading researchers in highest quality facilities, and to develop skills for your future career.
We offer an extremely generous array of scholarships, including living allowances (stipends), fee remissions and support for research and studies undertaken overseas. In addition, the University boasts a superb campus environment and extensive support services, including a dedicated centre for graduate students.
How can I find out about scholarships?
Applications for scholarships should be lodged with the Melbourne Scholarships Office.