Master's Degree Philosophy Full Time

Master of Philosophy

at Federation University Australia · Ballarat, Victoria

CRICOS course code

119361J

CRICOS provider code

00103D

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$72,000 total

Per year

A$36,000/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Philosophy at Federation University Australia is a higher degree by research, spanning two years full-time study, and is designed for those wishing to deepen their understanding of philosophy or pursue advanced research training. This programme enables students to explore philosophical questions across areas such as ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, logic, and the history of philosophy, culminating in the completion of an original research project or thesis under the guidance of experienced academics.

Australian masters by research degrees like the MPhil are structured to include an approved research proposal, progress milestones, and a final written thesis submitted for examination. Students typically enrol in relevant units of study which support their research – these may attract credit points consistent with the university's requirements. The programme is ideal for aspiring academics, professionals seeking advanced investigative and critical thinking skills, or those considering progression to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Throughout the course, students develop expertise in philosophical analysis, independent research, critical reasoning, academic writing, and presentation. Regular seminars, workshops, and peer forums offer opportunities to present findings, receive feedback, and engage in scholarly discussion. The MPhil also serves as a pathway to a research career or further study, as well as careers demanding high-level analytical and ethical reasoning abilities.

Federation University’s location in Ballarat provides a supportive research community, with opportunities to connect to the wider academic and professional networks across Australia. International students benefit from a robust framework of support, may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) on completion, and are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled. For entry, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at the university's required level. Prospective students should confirm all details on the official course 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

University lecturer or academic researcher in philosophy or related fields
Policy analyst or adviser for government or not-for-profit organisations
Ethics consultant for corporate, legal, or healthcare sectors
Editorial or publishing roles in academic and intellectual publications
Strategic or advisory positions in Australian research institutes or NGOs

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy at Federation University Australia?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$72,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

University lecturer or academic researcher in philosophy or related fieldsPolicy analyst or adviser for government or not-for-profit organisationsEthics consultant for corporate, legal, or healthcare sectorsEditorial or publishing roles in academic and intellectual publicationsSt...

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