Master of Philosophy - Education (MR-PHILEDU) // Entry and participation requirements

Entry requirements

1. In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed:

• a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% in the final year subjects or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
• a masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent; or
• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent;

and

• submit a research proposal;
• provide referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years);
• have obtained the endorsement of a prospective supervisor.

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.

2. In ranking applications, the Selection Committee will consider:

• prior academic performance and, if relevant, professional qualifications;
• performance at interview;
• quality of research proposal;
• understanding of the research question to be explored;
• motivation and capacity to complete the course in a timely manner;
• relevant prior research and/or professional experience; 
• suitability and availability of supervisors; and
• referee reports.

3. The selection committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Selection and Admission into Graduate Research Courses Policy.

4. Applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements. 

The University welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Indigenous Australians who are not otherwise selected will be admitted if the Selection Committee determines that they are likely to succeed in the course. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to contact Murrup Barak for support in preparing their application. 

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

Inherent requirements are the abilities, knowledge and skills needed to complete the course and the proposed research project. They include the ability to: 

• source, comprehend and analyse complex information;
• comprehend and apply principles of research integrity;
• possess behavioural and social attributes necessary to participate in the research;
• generate research data and outputs;
• communicate research knowledge and the application of research principles and practices;
• participate actively and safely in the research project. 

The Master of Philosophy – Education welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities. The University will take all reasonable steps to enable the participation of students with disabilities.  

Candidates who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this with  Student Equity and Disability Support.  

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Overview, Learning Outcomes and Assessment sections of this entry. 

Last updated: 27 February 2025