Find a course
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) involves students independently researching a specific topic under the guidance of a supervisor. The aim of the PhD is to foster the development of independent research skills including the capacity to formulate a problem, develop mastery of appropriate conceptual and methodological skills to address it, and relate the research topic to a broader framework of knowledge in a relevant discipline. Research involves critical inquiry designed to further human knowledge. Students are required to produce a thesis normally no less than 80,000 words and no more than 100,000, with the research representing a significant new contribution to the discipline.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is an internationally recognised postgraduate research degree that involves undertaking a significant research project. It is a supervised research program involving the independent research of a specific topic under the guidance of a supervisor. Students are required to provide a thesis that demonstrates their capacity for critical analysis and application of specialist knowledge. The MPhil program provides students with an opportunity to develop and enhance their analytical and research skills through independent investigation in a specific field. The candidate must undertake an original investigation which would normally be more limited in scope and degree of originality than a PhD. Many MPhil students choose to continue with their research in order to obtain a PhD. Likewise, some PhD students elect to finish early with an MPhil.
You are currently located on the main Murdoch site