Master's Degree Physics Full Time

Master of Research (Physics)

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

0100030

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$86,554 total

Per year

A$43,277/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Research (Physics) at Curtin University offers an intensive research-focused pathway for those seeking to address advanced problems in physics. Over two years, students work closely with academic supervisors on a bespoke research project situated within Curtin’s active physics research community, which has strong connections to local and national industry as well as global collaborations, particularly in areas such as radio astronomy, medical physics, nanotechnology, and materials science.

This master’s degree is structured around a combination of advanced coursework and an extensive research thesis. The coursework component helps build specialist knowledge and research skills, usually across the initial semester or two, giving a firm grounding for the thesis. Students must complete a specified number of credit points through approved units of study. The thesis takes up a significant portion of the programme, often spanning at least one full year, and is examined in line with Australian higher degree research standards.

Students develop practical abilities such as experiment design, theoretical analysis, and the use of advanced computational methods. Strong emphasis is placed on scientific communication, critical evaluation of scholarly work, and project management. This qualification is suited for graduates in physics or allied fields—particularly those considering further research degrees (such as a PhD), or research and development roles in industry and government.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency. Curtin University’s Perth campus provides access to modern laboratories, industry partnerships, and a diversified research environment. Students on a Student visa may be eligible for up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during study, and upon graduation, may qualify for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), subject to Department of Home Affairs requirements. Always confirm course structure and entry requirements on Curtin University’s official site.

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

Research scientist in physics or allied fields
Laboratory manager
Data analyst or modelling specialist
Technical consultant for scientific organisations
Positions in national labs, medical physics, resource industries, or space science initiatives across Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Research (Physics) 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$86,554 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist in physics or allied fieldsLaboratory managerData analyst or modelling specialistTechnical consultant for scientific organisationsPositions in national labs, medical physics, resource industries, or space science initiatives across Australia

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