Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Education or Social Work
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a degree completed by research and advanced coursework. Students undertaking this degree are assigned a supervisor and, usually, an associate supervisor.
The degree is available in both full-time and part-time modes. Full time candidature is usually completed in two years, part-time candidates are allowed to take up to four years.
MPhil students are required to complete a probationary year and to produce an extended research plan at the end of that year. Examination is by presentation of a thesis. The normal length of an MPhil thesis is about 40,000 words.
Why study at Sydney University?
The University of Sydney is Australia's premier research University, and the Faculty of Education and Social Work is a world-class research centre in the humanities, human services and related fields.
The Faculty and University offer extensive financial and academic support to research students in the form of office space and equipment, a Postgraduate Student Research Scheme, access to short courses on research skills and thesis production through the Learning Centre and access to a number of research methods courses. An extensive range of scholarships and prizes are also available to research students.
Finding a supervisor and constructing a research proposal
In finding a supervisor, you are advised to contact a staff member who specialises
Our website provides a comprehensive list of the key research interests of our staff. You can also search our directory.
We also have some useful advice on constructing a research proposal, which you should consider before submitting your application.
Structure of the program
Entry into the MPhil program is subject to the previous qualifications and experience held by the applicant. For full details on the entry, refer to our pathways to research section.
Students in the MPhil program are required to enrol in the unit of study
- EDPK 5003 - Developing a Research Project (Education students) or
- SCWK 6902 - Social Research Methods (Social Work students)
and at least one research unit from
- EDPZ 6001 - Critical Literature Analysis
- EDPK 5001 - Qualitative Research Methods
- EDPK 5002 - Quantitative Research Methods
- EDPK 6012 - Textual Data Analysis
- EDPK 6016 - Advanced Statistical Analysis
Continuing to higher research
MPhil students will be permitted to transfer to a PhD provided:
- their extended research plan is approved, and
- they conduct part of the MPhil research, and
- analyse the data, and
- write up the research into a doctoral qualifying paper that is reviewed and approved by their thesis proposal committee
Fees
Local Students
No fees are necessary for local students undertaking a research degree.
International Students
International 2009 fees are AUD$21,600 p.a. (for a year of full time study - 48 credit points or equivalent).
Comprehensive information about international fees is available from the International Office.
Additional information for International applications is also available from this website.
Please note these fees may increase in subsequent years.
Where to get more information
If you have got a question about this degree program, please ask it via our feedback form, or contact the coordinator or contact the Division of Graduate Studies.