Master's Degree Philosophy Full Time

Master of Philosophy - Level 4

at Murdoch University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

003001G

CRICOS provider code

00125J

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$74,400 total

Per year

A$37,200/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) at Murdoch University in Perth is a research-focused degree that allows students to undertake a substantial piece of independent research in philosophy. Over two years of full-time study, students are guided by experienced supervisors as they develop a research thesis. This course suits those considering further research at a doctoral level, academic pathways, or research-intensive roles in government and industry.

This master's degree is structured around the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 9 guidelines and usually requires completion of core research training units and the successful submission of a thesis. Students receive credit for individual units based on the Murdoch system, with the thesis representing the majority of the credit load—typically 24 credit points or more, though students should confirm specific details with the university.

Throughout the MPhil, students gain strong skills in critical analysis, logical argument, academic writing, and independent inquiry. The experience also includes opportunities to present work at seminars and take part in the university’s research culture. Murdoch’s location in Perth gives students access to local academic networks and the possibility to engage with Western Australia’s broader intellectual and policy communities.

This course is suited for those with a background in philosophy or related areas who are ready for an extended focus on research. International students need to meet Murdoch’s English language requirements, which can be evidenced with IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, a Cambridge C1 Advanced, or completion of the university’s own English programmes. Students are also granted work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation. Always check the official Murdoch University and government websites for the latest admission and visa details.

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

Researcher or policy analyst in government, NGOs, or think tanks
Academic research assistant in humanities or social sciences
PhD candidate
Roles in publishing, ethics committees, and cultural organisations
Positions in education, consultancy, or advocacy with a research focus

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy - Level 4 at Murdoch 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$74,400 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Researcher or policy analyst in government, NGOs, or think tanksAcademic research assistant in humanities or social sciencesPhD candidateRoles in publishing, ethics committees, and cultural organisationsPositions in education, consultancy, or advocacy with a research focus

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