The Master of Philosophy is a higher degree by research. The purpose of the Master of Philosophy is to qualify individuals who apply an advanced body of knowledge in a range of contexts for research and scholarship, and as a pathway for possible further study.
Course Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Philosophy:
- have a body of knowledge that includes the understanding of recent developments in a field of study within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines;
- have an advanced knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field in which the research has been carried out;
- have cognitive skills to demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on theory and its application
- have cognitive skills to investigate, analyse, and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories, including the management of significant amounts of information, effective use and differentiation of primary and secondary resources, and identification and application of appropriate research resources such as computer programs, libraries, the internet, archives, databases or interviews
- have communication and technical skills to present a coherent and sustained argument, and to disseminate research results to specialist and non-specialists audiences
- have communication and technical skills to design, implement, evaluate, analyse, theorise and disseminate research that makes a contribution to knowledge within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines
- have sufficient psychological strength to work with a high degree of independence on a research project and to engage strategies to cope with the stress accompanying such a project and its necessary deadlines
- have the capacity to balance independent initiative and response to constructive criticism, and to learn from others.
- apply knowledge and skills with initiative and creativity in new situations or in further learning
- apply knowledge and skills with a high level of personal autonomy and accountability
- apply knowledge and skills to plan and execute a substantial piece of research
- apply explicit and implicit ethical considerations to the formulation of a research project
- apply established theories to different bodies of knowledge or practice
- apply knowledge and skills to generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level
What is involved to complete the Master of Philosophy?
There are two streams in the Master of Philosophy. All candidates must attend a minimum of 8 hours of research seminars each year at the University and either a University Research Day or a research conference each year.
The MPhil by major thesis requires submission for examination of a thesis of 40,000 words.
The MPhil by minor thesis requires completion of two postgraduate coursework units and submission for examination of a thesis of 25,000 words.
A thesis submitted for the MPhil is examined by two examiners external to the University of Divinity.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for admission an applicant must satisfy the Research Committee that he or she has completed one of the following awards at the University of Divinity to the specified standard, or an equivalent award in divinity or its associated disciplines at another higher education provider recognised by the Academic Board to an equivalent standard:
FEES AND MORE INFORMATION
Fees for the MPhil are charged per semester. In 2019 the total cost of an MPhil of standard duration (three semesters full-time or six semesters part-time) is $17,136. The actual total cost of the course may vary as fees change each year, and if the period of enrolment exceeds the standard duration. More information is available on the University of Divinity Website.
Course Duration
1.5 years full-time; up to 4 years part-time
Overseas Students
Yes. Please make contact with our Research Coordinator.
Financial Assistance
Australian citizens are eligible for FEE-HELP, the Australian Government’s student loans scheme
Completion Requirements
The MPhil by major thesis requires submission for examination of a thesis of 40,000 words. The MPhil by minor thesis requires completion of two postgraduate coursework units and submission for examination of a thesis of 25,000 words.
