Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-03-01 | - |
2025-07-01 | - |
2025-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
Master of Philosophy
Overview
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a postgraduate research course that enables students to develop their independent research skills and make a new contribution to knowledge in their field. The course is 2 years of full-time equivalent study.
Fast Facts
- Location: JCU campuses or study centres in Townsville, Cairns, Singapore, and online.
- Commencing: March, July, and October of each year.
- Fees: Indicative, annual cost of the course. Some courses are supported by the Australian Government with the government paying some of the fees. The tuition fee is the fee payable if Commonwealth Support does not apply.
- Duration: 2 years full-time.
- Entry Requirements: AQF level 7 bachelor degree with conditions.
Course Detail
What to Expect
Develop your independent research skills with the Master of Philosophy. This postgraduate research course is 2 years of full-time equivalent study.
Make a new contribution to knowledge or evaluate existing material in a new light with an MPhil research project. Complete your project with the production of a research thesis.
Gain the skills to take on theoretical and practical approaches to problems and innovate with a broad range of potential applications. Develop yourself professionally within your chosen sector or apply your research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to new contexts.
Career Opportunities
JCU Master of Philosophy (MPhil) graduates are internationally recognised as experts who discover valuable new knowledge in their fields.
The skills you develop during your MPhil will enable you to develop yourself professionally within your existing sector, or to apply your research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to new contexts. Graduates can also continue their independent research in a Doctor of Philosophy.
Handbook
The table below can be used to view individual course information for each Master of Philosophy specialisation.
- Course Code | CRICOS Code | Course
- | G | Master of Philosophy (Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies)
- | G | Master of Philosophy (Architecture and Building)
- | B | Master of Philosophy (Creative Arts)
- | B | Master of Philosophy (Education)
- | C | Master of Philosophy (Engineering and Related Technologies)
- | G | Master of Philosophy (Health)
- | | Master of Philosophy (Indigenous)
- | K | Master of Philosophy (Information Technology)
- | C | Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce)
- | F | Master of Philosophy (Medical, Molecular and Veterinary Sciences)
- | M | Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences)
- | D | Master of Philosophy (Society and Culture)
Fees and Scholarships
JCU, with the support of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program, will cover the costs of tuition fees for Australian citizens/permanent residents and New Zealand citizens.
All candidates can also apply for a competitively-awarded stipend to help with living and tuition costs.
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
Pathways to JCU
JCU offers multiple Pathways to University. If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course, consider exploring our available Pathways options.
How to Apply
To be eligible to apply for entry to a Research Masters degree an applicant must demonstrate the capacity to undertake research at the Research Masters level by the attainment of a Bachelor’s Degree with either a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 5.5 in the final full time year of study, or with demonstrated research experience.
Visit the Graduate Research School website for more information, and then complete an online application through our Online Application Portal.
Program Outline
Careers:
JCU Master of Philosophy graduates are internationally recognised as experts who discover valuable new knowledge in their fields. The skills you develop during your MPhil will enable you to develop yourself professionally within your existing sector, or to apply your research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to new contexts. Graduates can also continue their independent research in a Doctor of Philosophy.
James Cook University
Overview:
James Cook University (JCU) is a public university located in Queensland, Australia. It is known for its focus on tropical research and its commitment to providing a world-class education in a unique environment. JCU is the second-oldest university in Queensland and is considered a leading institution in Australia.
Services Offered:
JCU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Study options:
Undergraduate and postgraduate programs, online courses, and pathways to university.Student life:
Accommodation, campus locations, global rankings, scholarships, and accessibility support.Admissions and entry:
Application process, important dates, fees and financial support.Current student support:
Subject search, course and subject handbook, fees and financial support, timetable and important dates, exams and results, off-campus student support, study overseas opportunities, student life, clubs and sporting teams, student mentor program, student placements, graduation and beyond, learning online, personal support, Indigenous student support, LearnJCU, The Learning Centre, careers and employability, and safety and wellbeing.Student Life and Campus Experience:
JCU offers a vibrant student life with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:
Unique environment:
World-class facilities, natural wonders, and a vibrant student life.Opportunities:
Study overseas, join clubs and sporting teams, participate in the student mentor program, and engage in student placements.Support:
Access to a range of support services, including personal support, Indigenous student support, and career guidance.Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class education:
Delivered by expert lecturers and world-class researchers.Career-focused courses:
Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen field.Unique research opportunities:
Access to world-class research facilities and locations, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest Observatory, and the Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine.Commitment to student success:
Lecturers are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential.Environmental sustainability:
JCU is committed to environmental sustainability, with energy-efficient facilities and a focus on tropical research.Academic Programs:
JCU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts, Society and Education
Business, Law and Governance
Healthcare Sciences
Medicine and Dentistry
Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences
Science and Engineering
Other:
JCU is committed to research that addresses global challenges and improves outcomes for those living in the tropics. The university has a strong focus on environmental sustainability and Indigenous engagement. JCU graduates are known for their problem-solving skills and their commitment to making a difference in the world.