Master of Philosophy (Indigenous Research and Development)

Program Overview

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Master of Philosophy (Indigenous Research and Development)

Overview

The Master of Philosophy aims to expand knowledge beyond the undergraduate honours or postgraduate diploma level, culminating in a research thesis. Upon completion of a master by research degree, you may apply to be considered for entry into a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program.

A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is offered by most schools and departments across Curtin. Each subject area has its own CRICOS code. For further information, please contact the Graduate Research School.

Why Research at Curtin

Curtin is widely recognised for applied research firmly focused on solving real-world problems. Underpinning our research endeavours are strong partnerships with industry, business and government, which result in outcomes that greatly benefit the broader community locally, nationally and globally. Our international reputation for being a strong partner in industry-driven research ensures our graduates enjoy outstanding opportunities to become innovators in their fields.

What You'll Learn

• Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that knowledge and its application through an Indigenous pedagogy
• Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories and apply established theories to different bodies of knowledge or practice as related to Indigenous Terms of Reference and protocols
• Generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level with concrete outcomes
• Design, use and evaluate research and research methods in line with AIATSIS Guidelines
• Present a coherent and sustained argument and to disseminate research concepts, plans and results to the general community, peers, and the national and international research community
• Design, evaluate, implement, analyse, theorise and disseminate research that makes an original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice through cultural ways of being, seeing and doing

Professional Recognition and Accreditation

Depending on your area of speciality, you may be eligible for membership of various professional organisations upon graduation.

Admission Criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

Entry Requirements for Australian and New Zealand Students

Generally, a bachelor degree with first or second class honours or a postgraduate diploma.

English Requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)

• Writing: 7.0
• Speaking: 6.0
• Reading: 7.0
• Listening: 6.5
• Overall band score: 6.5

Fees and Scholarships

Under the Research Training Program (RTP), Australian and New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents undertaking higher degrees by research may be granted an Australian Government RTP Fee Offset Scholarship to assist with tuition fee liability.

You may be eligible for a scholarship or industry assistance (sponsorship) may be available from external organisations under special conditions.

Location

For start dates, please view the academic calendar.

All endeavours are made to ensure location information for courses is up to date but please note they are subject to change.

The University reserves the right to withdraw any unit of study or program which it offers, to impose limitations on enrolment in any unit or program, and/or to vary arrangements for any program.

How to Apply

Please review information on how to apply for the campus of your choice.

• Curtin Perth

Please note that each campus has different application deadlines. View our application deadlines page for further information.

Duration

This course is two years full-time or equivalent part-time study.

• 2 years full-time

Qualification

Master of Philosophy (Indigenous Research and Development)

Course Code

MR-INDGRD

Last Updated

12 May 2025

Disclaimer

The information on this page may be subject to change. In particular, Curtin University may change the content, method or location of delivery or tuition fees of courses.

While Curtin uses reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided on this page is accurate and up to date, errors and omissions sometimes occur. Curtin makes no warranty, representation or undertaking (expressed or implied) nor does it assume any legal liability (direct or indirect) for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information.

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