Be inspired by our proven record of excellence in postgraduate research at UNSW. Acquire advanced research skills working alongside world-leading academics and apply your knowledge to shape the world we live in.

Engage in original research

A Masters by Research (MRes) is your opportunity to engage in serious research and contribute new knowledge to your area of research interest within UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture. This program is like a Doctor of Philosophy but on a more modest scale. Additionally, it provides research training to apply for a PhD.

You'll develop insight and critical research skills, master strong research methodology and complete an original piece of research under the support and guidance of a supervisor. To be eligible for the degree, you must show clear potential to undertake significant independent research by successful completion of a relevant honours degree, professional work following a relevant undergraduate degree or completion of a postgraduate coursework degree with a significant research component.

Structure

A Masters by Research program involves the following:

  • a research thesis proposal

  • a research thesis, normally of 45,000 words.

The program is completed within two years full-time or four years of part-time study.

Research areas

We offer a range of specialist Masters by Research programs in a broad range of subject and research areas.

These include the following:

Find a supervisor

 

Entry requirements

Admission to the Masters by Research degree requires similar evidence of research training.  Applicants must:

  • have been awarded an appropriate degree of Bachelor with Honours from the University of New South Wales at a standard not below Honours Class 2 Division 2 or a qualification considered equivalent from another university or tertiary institution; or

  • have been awarded an appropriate award of Graduate Diploma by Research or appropriate Master by Coursework at an average not below Honours Class 2 Division 2 equivalent from the University of New South Wales or a qualification considered equivalent from another university or tertiary institution; or

  • have been awarded an appropriate degree of Bachelor with a significant research component from the University of New South Wales at an average not below 75% or a qualification considered equivalent from another university or tertiary institution plus at least two years professional experience of a kind acceptable to the Higher Degree Committee (HDC), providing that the HDC is satisfied that the qualification is at a level and of a character indicating research potential. Applicants need to clearly demonstrate some degree of familiarity with research techniques and/or the experience of carrying out research. 

In exceptional cases, an applicant who submits evidence of other academic and professional qualifications may be approved by the HDC and permitted to enrol for the degree.

If the HDC is not satisfied with the qualifications submitted by an applicant, the HDC may require the applicant to undergo an assessment or carry out work as the HDC may prescribe before permitting enrolment.

All applicants must also meet the university’s English language entry requirements.

How to apply

Master of Arts by Research

The Master of Arts by Research degree involves the completion of a thesis proposal and a research thesis. It's designed for students who wish to engage in serious research but may not be able to commit to the three-year PhD.

Master of Education by Research

The Master of Education by Research is designed for professionals requiring further research training who may not be able to commit to the three-year PhD. Candidates will have completed an undergraduate degree in Education at honours level or completed a Master of Education by coursework with superior results.

Master of Fine Arts by Research

UNSW School of Art & Design offers access to a world of creativity through the Master of Fine Arts degree. As a leading international research-based university, we attract outstanding teaching, studio and research staff with unmatched industry experience.