The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree is undertaken as a supervised program of original research. It is suited to those with some research training and experience, but who do not meet the eligibility criteria for direct entry into the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
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Duration
Full Time: 2 Years (Available Part Time)*
Next Start Date
05 January 2026
30 March 2026
22 June 2026
14 September 2026
End of Session
Campuses^
Parramatta City
Parramatta South
Penrith
Bankstown City
Hawkesbury
Campbelltown
Domestic Student Fees
Indicative annual fee from $11,885
Additional Information
Program Code: MPhil
Research at Western
The depth of research required for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is less than that required for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). In some cases, it is possible to use the Master of Philosophy as a pathway to upgrade to a Doctor of Philosophy.
The Master of Philosophy is completed within a minimum period of 1 year full-time and a maximum period of 2 years full-time, or the part-time equivalent.
Students with limited research training or experience are advised to undertake the Master of Research (MRes).
Note: Applications for research programs are accepted at any time with successful candidates commencing on a quarterly intake basis.
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What you can expect to study
The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.
Career Opportunities
As a Master of Philosophy graduate, you will develop skills in critical thinking and presenting an organised and well-supported argument. These skills are important in a wide range of career paths such as:
- Market and consumer research
- Policy analysis, research and development
- Technology research and development
- Public relations and communications
- University teaching or administration
Entry requirements for domestic students
Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.
You can read more about special requirements here.
Entry requirements for international students
**Please note, if this course lists a part-time option, this is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.
Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.
You can read more about international academic entry requirements here.
Indicative annual fee
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
Apply as a Domestic Student
You should refer to the Higher Degree Research Fees page for information about tuition fees for this program.
If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.
Domestic students are:
- Australian Citizens
- New Zealand Citizens
- Australian permanent residents
- Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
Apply as an International Student
You should refer to the Higher Degree Research Fees page for information about tuition fees for this program.
FAQs
We have compiled a list of answers to some of the most common enquiries regarding Higher Degree Research, as well as information around fees.
Want to know more?
We're here to provide clarity.
If you're uncertain about your study journey, enquire about our program today and gain the confidence to move forward.if you have any further questions or would like to know more, please submit your enquiry here.
For more information visit the Higher Degree Research Knowledge Directory.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.