Master of Philosophy

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a higher degree by research in divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines and is designed for individuals who bring a foundation within this disciplinary range. The purpose of the Master of Philosophy is to qualify individuals to apply an advanced body of knowledge in divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines in a range of contexts and to provide a pathway for possible further learning.

Course Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Philosophy:

1. have a body of knowledge in a field of study within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines that includes the understanding of recent developments within this field
2. apply advanced knowledge and skills to plan and execute a substantial piece of research
3. have cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts in a field of study within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines and to reflect critically on them
4. have cognitive skills in, and mastery of, research principles and methods applicable to the field in which the research has been carried out
5. have skills to present a coherent and sustained argument and to communicate research results to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Course Structure

The course of study for the Master of Philosophy by major thesis consists of:

1. Satisfactory completion of confirmation of candidature
2. Preparation and submission of a thesis or its equivalent for examination (up to 40,000 words)
3. Satisfactory completion of any requirements of the Human Research Ethics Committee
4. Submission of an annual report throughout the duration of candidature
5. Annual attendance and participation in a minimum of 8 hours of research seminars and conferences
6. Presentation of at least one seminar or conference paper of no less than 20 minutes’ duration once candidature has been confirmed and prior to submission of the thesis

Admission Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Completion of one of the following awards in divinity or its associated disciplines with a 75% average
   • a Master by research degree, or
   • a Master by coursework degree, or
   • Graduate Diploma, or
   • a four year undergraduate degree with Honours
2. Completing of a thesis or equivalent of at least 12,000 words (graded at or above 70%)
3. A research proposal which identifies a research question, proposed methodology and a statement of the contribution to a field of knowledge or professional practice
4. The names of at least two supervisors with relevant expertise who satisy the requirements of the Higher Degrees by Research Policy and who consent to supervise the thesis.

Applicants may only be admitted by the School of Graduate Research Committee. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Upon admission, the applicant becomes a member of the School of Graduate Research

Duration

• Full-time: in 1.5 years
• Part-time: over 4 years

2024 Fees

• Part-time: $9,516
• Full-time: $19,032

Payment Options

• FEE-HELP: This course is eligible for FEE-HELP
• Upfront Payment: If you are paying Upfront, via BPay or Credit Card, payment of fees is arranged at enrolment. An invoice will be emailed during the enrolment or reenrolment process

Further Information

• Research Process
• Master of Philosophy on the University of Divinity website
• Regulation
• Higher Degrees by Research Policy