The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is an internationally recognised graduate research degree that involves undertaking a significant research project in an area that fascinates you. It is a supervised research program involving the independent research of a specific topic under the guidance of a supervisory team. This will result in you producing a thesis that will represent an original contribution to human knowledge and demonstrate your capacity for critical analysis and application of specialist knowledge.
Through the Master of Philosophy you will develop and enhance your analytical and research skills through independent investigation in a specific field. This investigation will typically be more limited in scope and degree of originality than a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Many students choose to continue with their research in order to obtain a PhD. Likewise, some PhD students elect to finish early with an Master of Philosophy.
Undertaking a Master of Philosophy gives you the opportunity to work with and be challenged by top academics and experts in your field, as well as attending national and international conferences.
Candidature for research degrees is offered in all disciplines. The University encourages research in interdisciplinary areas as well as in the basic disciplines.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
February 2026
Rockingham Campus
Dixon Road,
Rockingham,
Western Australia,
6168, Perth, Australia
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
February 2026
Mandurah Campus
Education Drive,
Mandurah,
Western Australia,
6210, Perth, Australia
To be eligible for admission as a candidate for the Master of Philosophy (MPhil), an applicant must have:* a Bachelor Degree with at least a 2A Honours (AQF level 8); or* a Bachelor Degree (AQF level 7), and satisfy the Dean of Graduate Research with evidence of significant scholarly or professional attainments providing satisfactory research preparation equivalent to AQF level 8.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Murdoch’s creative approach to education gives students the support and opportunities to think critically and forge their own career pathways.
