Master of Philosophy
The Master of Philosophy is a higher degree by research in divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines and is designed for individuals who bring a foundation within this disciplinary range. The purpose of the Master of Philosophy is to qualify individuals to apply an advanced body of knowledge in divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines in a range of contexts and to provide a pathway for possible further learning.
Course outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Philosophy:
- have a body of knowledge in a field of study within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines that includes the understanding of recent developments within this field
- apply advanced knowledge and skills to plan and execute a substantial piece of research
- have cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts in a field of study within divinity or one or more of its associated disciplines and to reflect critically on them
- have cognitive skills in, and mastery of, research principles and methods applicable to the field in which the research has been carried out
- have skills to present a coherent and sustained argument and to communicate research results to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
The course of study for the Master of Philosophy by major thesis consists of:
- Submission of an annual report throughout the duration of candidature.
- Satisfactory completion of confirmation of candidature.
- Where relevant, satisfactory completion of requirements of the Human Research Ethics Committee.
- Attendance and participation in a minimum of 8 hours of research seminars at the University and either a University Research Conference or a research conference approved by the candidate’s College during each year of candidature. Satisfactory completion of these requirements must be certified by the College on the candidate’s annual report.
- Preparation of a thesis of up to 40,000 words for examination.
Entry requirements
To be eligible for admission an applicant must satisfy the SGR Committee that he or she has completed one of the following awards at the University of Divinity to the specified standard, or an equivalent award in divinity or its associated disciplines at another higher education provider recognised by the Academic Board to an equivalent standard:
- a Masters by coursework with a 75% average; or
- a Graduate Diploma with a 75% average; or
- a four year undergraduate degree with Honours with a 75% average.
An applicant must also satisfy the SGR Committee that he or she has completed a research essay or thesis of at least 12,000 words graded at or above 75%. The research essay or thesis may have been completed either within one of the awards listed above or as part of another program of study.
Upon admission, the applicant becomes a member of the School of Graduate Research.
Key admission policies
Where the first language is other than English, please see the English language proficiency requirements in the Admissions Policy.
ALC operates with a policy of credit transfer and recognition of prior learning (RPL); see the Credit Policy.
Study modes
- The Research Methodologies unit is taught face-to-face, by workshop and/or online.
- Supervisor meetings can be held using electronic means where required.
FEE-HELP
- Yes—this course is registered for FEE-HELP.
Overseas
- Yes—this course is available for overseas students.
- CRICOS code: 077752A
Accreditation
- The Master of Philosophy is an accredited AQF level 9 course of the University of Divinity (UD).
- For further information, see UD course information for Master of Philosophy.
Further study
Graduates may be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy.
