Master of Science (by Research)

About the course

Course Description:

Aims & Objectives:

The master by research degree generally has the objective of training students in research methodology and techniques and in their critical evaluation, appropriate to their field of study, and in the application of such methodology by conducting a specified program of research under appropriate supervision. In addition, this degree requires training in analysing the literature and debate in the substantive area of the thesis topic at an advanced level.

Course Structure:

The candidate’s research program must be such as to ensure the likelihood of completion of a thesis within the specified time. Candidates normally undertake the research at Swinburne for the appropriate duration and (especially part-time candidates and those based in industry) must be able to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technologies Research Committee and the Higher Degrees Committee that they are able to meet with their supervisors in person to discuss progress at least once every calendar month or have made satisfactory arrangements for discussion to occur by other means (e.g. email).

All candidates are expected to demonstrate satisfactory progress on an annual basis. To be assessed for a master by research, candidates must present a major thesis based on original research, investigation or development work carried out under Swinburne staff supervision either at Swinburne or externally.

Please note: students holding an international student visa are required to study full-time.

Education Abroad:

Swinburne offers International Exchange Programs as well as other Education Abroad Programs to help internationalise your degree. International Exchange is an academic program allowing you to study at a Swinburne Partner Institution for one or two semesters during your degree. Swinburne's Partner Institutions offer many relevant subjects as well as a secure base to explore a different culture. Your studies while on exchange can be credited towards your Swinburne degree, provided they are relevant and approved by Swinburne. For further information visit the Education Abroad website.

How To Apply

English Language Requirements:

Swinburne College English for Academic Purposes Advanced level certificate at the postgraduate level (EAP 5: PG-70%); OR, obtaining a minimum IELTS overall band of 6.5 (Academic Module) with no individual band below 6.0; OR, a TOEFL (Paper-based) minimum score of 575 (with Test of Written English (TWE) score of 5); OR, a TOEFL (Computer-based) minimum score of 232 (with Written Writing score of 5); OR, a TOEFL (Internet-based) minimum score of 90 with no band less than 20.

Refer to the English Language Requirements website for further information.

Academic Requirements:

Applicants must have completed at least four years (or equivalent) of tertiary education studies at a high level of achievement. For example:
• a four year degree (eg: engineering, information technology, education etc.);
• a three year degree and an Honours year;
• a three year degree and one year of a Masters by coursework;
• a three year course and one year of a Masters preliminary or other qualifying program; or
• a three year degree and a postgraduate diploma

If you are already studying a Masters degree and wish to convert to a PhD, you will only be considered for a scholarship for a PhD program after advice from the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST.)
Please visit the Swinburne Research website for more detailed information at http://www.swin.edu.au/research/postgrad.htm

Find Out More

For further information:

Information Sessions:

Visit our Meet Us page to see when we are visiting your home country (or here in Australia)

Scholarships:

A range of scholarships are available to international students, visit our Scholarship Page for details.