Master's Degree Geology Full Time

Master of Philosophy (Geophysics)

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

061504D

CRICOS provider code

00301J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$84,790 total

Per year

A$42,395/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Philosophy (Geophysics) at Curtin University is a two-year research-focused degree based in Perth. This course centres on independent research in geophysics, allowing students to contribute new knowledge in areas like exploration seismology, geoelectric methods, or geophysical data analysis. Students work under the guidance of experienced supervisors while developing their own research project, which leads to a thesis submission at the conclusion of the course.

Australian master's research degrees like this are structured to encourage deep exploration of a single topic through a significant thesis, rather than set coursework units. Students still undertake some research training units to develop advanced skills in data interpretation, fieldwork techniques, scientific communication, and critical reading. Regular seminars and progress reviews support research development throughout the degree.

This course suits those who have an undergraduate background in geophysics, geology, physics, or related fields, and who are ready for independent research. Students benefit from Curtin’s strong connections with the mining and energy sectors in Western Australia, a major hub for geoscience research and resource exploration. Undertaking the MPhil at Curtin may offer networking and potential collaboration opportunities with industry, and research projects may address real-world Australian geoscientific challenges.

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Course details, specific entry requirements, and research topic availability should always be confirmed on the official Curtin University page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Geophysicist in mining, oil and gas, or environmental sectors
Research scientist with government organisations or geological surveys
Geophysical data analyst or consultant
Resource exploration project coordinator
PhD candidate in geosciences or related fields

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy (Geophysics) at Curtin University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$84,790 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Geophysicist in mining, oil and gas, or environmental sectorsResearch scientist with government organisations or geological surveysGeophysical data analyst or consultantResource exploration project coordinatorPhD candidate in geosciences or related fields

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