The Master of Research degree combines advanced research training with an independent research project, allowing you to build expertise in your chosen discipline. With majors spanning arts, business, education, health, science, technology and more, you'll develop the skills to make a meaningful contribution to knowledge and prepare for doctoral study.
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Duration
Full Time: 1.5 Years (Available Part Time)*
Next Start Date
01 March 2027
End of Session
Campuses^
Parramatta South
Domestic Student Fees
Indicative annual fee from $11,885
Additional Information
Program Code: 8137
CRICOS Code: TBA | TBA (HC)
Turn curiosity into discovery
The Master of Research is your opportunity to explore the questions that inspire you and contribute new knowledge in a field you are passionate about. Combining advanced research training with a substantial independent research project, this degree equips you with the skills, confidence and experience to investigate complex problems and generate meaningful insights.
Unlike traditional postgraduate study, the Master of Research immerses you in the research culture of your chosen discipline from the outset. You'll develop expertise through a School-based major, learning alongside experienced researchers while building skills in research design, methods, academic writing and project development. You can choose from a diverse range of disciplines across the arts, business, education, health, medicine, psychology, science, engineering and technology. Your experience can be tailored towards your interests and career goals.
Whether you're planning to pursue a PhD, advance your professional expertise, or tackle challenges facing communities, industries and society, the Master of Research provides a pathway to deeper knowledge, discovery and impact.
Apply Now to start your journey at Western
Western has a vibrant and impactful culture of research and innovation.
Take the next steps towards a rewarding career in research and secure your place in a Higher Degree by Research.
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.
The Master of Research allows you to choose one of the following majors:
- Arts
- Built Environment and Design
- Business
- Computer Science
- Data Science and Analytics
- Education
- Engineering and Technology
- Health Science
- Law
- Mathematical Sciences
- Medicine
- Midwifery
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Science
- Social Sciences
First, you will complete a set of subjects (40 credit points) aligned with your chosen major to develop skills in research design, research methods, forms of inquiry, academic writing, and project development. This provides you with the foundation for independent research.
Next, you will undertake the HDR Thesis subject (80 credit points) in your chosen discipline. This is your opportunity to work closely with your supervisor to complete your own research project and write a thesis to share your findings.
Career Opportunities
Research skills are in demand across a wide range of industries and professions. Graduates of the Master of Research develop advanced capabilities in critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, project management and communication, enabling them to contribute to evidence-based decision-making in complex environments.
As a Master of Research graduate, you may pursue careers in universities, research institutes, government agencies, healthcare organisations, industry, non-profit organisations and the private sector. Depending on your discipline, opportunities may include research officer, policy analyst, consultant, data analyst, clinical researcher, market researcher, program evaluator, research manager or specialist advisor.
For many graduates, the Master of Research also provides a pathway to doctoral study. Through the completion of an independent research project and thesis, you'll gain valuable experience designing and conducting original research, preparing you for entry into a PhD and future careers in academia, tertiary education, research leadership and innovation.
Alumni
Western's contribution to your success does not end at graduation. We have what it takes to support your continuous learning and professional development.
Our alumni are making a difference across diverse fields, contributing new knowledge, influencing policy, advancing professional practice and helping solve the challenges facing communities, industries and societies around the world.
Entry requirements for domestic students
You can find information about the eligibility requirements for this degree from the HDR how to apply page.
Visit the find a supervisor page for advice about how to search for a potential supervisor or who to contact for advice in our Schools and Institutes.
Entry requirements for international students
You can find information about the eligibility requirements for this degree from the HDR how to apply page.
Visit the find a supervisor page for advice about how to search for a potential supervisor or who to contact for advice in our Schools and Institutes.
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.
The RTP is an Australian Government research block grant program that provides funding to Australian universities to support their training of domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees, known collectively as higher degrees by research (HDRs).
This means that you are not required to pay tuition fees if you complete your degree within the allowable duration.
You may be required to pay overtime tuition fees if you do not complete with the allowable duration.
Apply as a Domestic Student
You should refer to the Higher Degree Research Fees page for more information about tuition fees for this program.
You can apply online via our application portal for free at any time.
For the purposes of this degree, domestic students are:
- Australian Citizens
- New Zealand Citizens
- Australian Permanent Residents
- Australian Permanent Humanitarian Visa Holders
Scholarships
Information about scholarships will be available soon.
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.
The RTP is an Australian Government research block grant program that provides funding to Australian universities to support their training of domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees, known collectively as higher degrees by research (HDRs).
This means that you are not required to pay tuition fees if you complete your degree within the allowable duration.
You may be required to pay overtime tuition fees if you do not complete with the allowable duration.
Apply as an International Student
You should refer to the Higher Degree Research Fees page for more information about tuition fees for this program.
You can apply online via our application portal for free at any time.
For the purposes of this degree, international students exclude:
- Australian Citizens
- New Zealand Citizens
- Australian Permanent Residents
- Australian Permanent Humanitarian Visa Holders
International applicants from some countries may be required to apply via an education agent. You can use our online tool to find an agent to help with the admission process.
Scholarships
Information about scholarships will be available soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
We've gathered common questions to provide you with quick, clear answers about this program. If you need more information, our support team is ready to assist you on your journey to Western. You can find their details below.
The Master of Research is a 1.5 year full-time (or part-time equivalent) postgraduate research training degree that is designed as a pathway to a PhD degree and a research career.The program integrates a structured coursework component (40 credit points) followed by a supervised research project (80 credit points) where you will produce a thesis.
The Master of Research is not available to study fully online or by distance, although some components may be delivered online. There may be flexibility in the research project to find a schedule that works for you in consultation with your supervisor.
Western Sydney University is a multi-campus university and teaching may be scheduled across different locations depending on your chosen discipline and the program requirements.
Applications are open all year and you can apply online via our application portal.
Your application will be assessed for the next available intake. There are two intakes commencing in either the first half or the second half of the year.
You can find information about the eligibility requirements for this degree from the HDR how to apply page.
You must also meet the HDR English language proficiency requirements.
A research supervisor is an experienced academic staff member who is there to guide you in designing and completing your research project.
Visit the find a supervisor for advice about how to search for a potential supervisor or who to contact for advice in our Schools and Institutes.
You can significantly strengthen your application by attaching a letter of support from your proposed supervisor.
Domestic students are supported by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP). You will not be required to pay tuition fees if you complete your degree within the allowable duration.
You may be required to pay overtime tuition fees if you do not complete with the allowable duration.
Information for international students will be available soon.
Information about scholarships will be available soon.
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.