Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry) – Melbourne
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Master's Degree Chemistry Full Time

Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry)

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

098316C

CRICOS provider code

00116K

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$123,850 total

Per year

A$61,925/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry) at the University of Melbourne is a two-year postgraduate degree designed for students seeking advanced knowledge and hands-on research experience in the field of chemistry, with a specific focus on industrial applications and problem-solving. Situated in Melbourne, a key hub for chemical sciences and innovation in Australia, this programme offers a combination of theoretical study and a significant research component tailored to meet both academic and industry standards.

The course is typically structured around a series of units of study, with students gaining credit points as they complete each subject. The curriculum encompasses advanced topics in chemistry, industrial research methodologies, and project management, preparing graduates for both scientific and leadership roles in research and development. A central feature of the degree is the substantial research thesis or capstone project, undertaken under the supervision of academic staff, often in collaboration with industry partners. This immersive project allows students to address real-world challenges using cutting-edge techniques, enhancing both their practical and analytical skills.

Students also benefit from work-integrated learning opportunities, such as placements or joint projects with leading chemical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing organisations in Australia. This exposure to the workforce equips graduates with comprehensive laboratory and industrial research skills relevant to the Australian context. The Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry) is well suited to graduates in science and engineering who wish to deepen their expertise, transition to research roles, or pursue pathways to doctoral studies.

International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency, with IELTS Academic scores of 6.0–6.5 typically accepted; equivalents in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge C1 Advanced are also recognised. Students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. For official details and up-to-date admissions requirements, the University of Melbourne's official course page should be consulted.

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

  • Industrial research chemist in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and materials science
  • Research and development specialist in private or government laboratories
  • Project manager or coordinator in chemical and related industries
  • Technical consultant in environmental monitoring, food science, or energy sectors
  • Pathways to doctoral (PhD) research roles within Australian universities or research organisations
  • Industry liaison or scientific adviser in regulatory and standards bodies

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry) at University of Melbourne?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$123,850 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Industrial research chemist in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and materials scienceResearch and development specialist in private or government laboratoriesProject manager or coordinator in chemical and related industriesTechnical consultant in environmental monitoring, food sci...

Guides for this subject and the application

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