Program Overview

Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology)

Program Overview

The Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology) is a research-based degree that allows students to contribute to the exploration and communication of researched inquiry about the world's reality, knowable by reason (philosophy). This degree is designed to be completed in 18 months of full-time study and consists of four practical research courses, a major research project, and access to a university-based supervisor to oversee the research project.

Why Study This Degree?

This degree builds on a rich history of philosophical knowledge and the implications of the Church's deposit of faith through Scripture and Tradition. The coursework component of this degree consists of four compulsory research training subjects to be completed as a prerequisite for the research project. These courses will give students opportunities to formulate substantial elements of their planned research and develop their critical analysis and scholarly writing competencies.

Program Requirements

• Up to 100 units of credit comprising RSCH7003 (or equivalent unit approved by the Dean) and up to three 25 units of credit of research training coursework courses as decided in consultation with the Dean or delegate.
• A minimum of a credit average in the coursework courses is required to maintain satisfactory progress in the degree.
• RSCH7003 (or equivalent course approved by the Dean) must be completed with at least a credit grade in the first semester of full-time or equivalent enrolment.
• Supervised Research courses totaling 200 units of credit.

Entry Requirements

Applicants will usually have to fulfill the following criteria:

• Possess an undergraduate degree from a recognized university, which has been completed at a high credit standard and which demonstrates the applicant's potential to undertake and complete research-based study.
• Have an equivalent academic background or extensive professional experience that is considered by the Dean of the School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Master's level.
• Candidates may be required to satisfy the Dean of the School of the ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Master of Philosophy, graduates will be able to:

1. Apply high-level cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialized research project that makes a contribution to knowledge, professional practice, and/or creative practice.
2. Investigate, analyze, synthesize, and critically reflect on complex information, problems, and concepts and apply established theories in the context of an advanced body of knowledge and practice.
3. Disseminate research findings, communicating a coherent and sustained argument effectively, to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
4. Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics, and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings.
5. Conduct research with creativity, initiative, autonomy, and accountability.

Career Opportunities

A Master of Philosophy (Philosophy & Theology) graduate may pursue careers in academia, industry, and research organizations. Jobs include teacher, editor, market research analyst, technical writer, advertising manager, research associate, publisher, and political analyst.

Fees and Costs

This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

• International Full-Fee Paying
• Research Training Program (RTP)

Tuition costs depend on an international student's study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of the program.

Partnership with the Catholic Institute of Sydney

This program is offered through an exclusive partnership with the Catholic Institute of Sydney (CIS) and provides the option to participate in this program externally, at one of the eligible CIS campuses or through Notre Dame, at the Fremantle or Sydney campus. By attending the CIS campus in Sydney, you will receive instruction from their internationally trained faculty and lecturers, and earn an accredited degree through the University of Notre Dame Australia.

Scholarships

• Domestic Students: In accordance with the Commonwealth Scholarships Guidelines (Research) 2017, most domestic research students are eligible to have all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course fees paid for by the Commonwealth Government through a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship the maximum duration of the enrolment time published on the program requirement.
• International Students: The University is keen to support high-caliber international students through the Commonwealth Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships (Fees Offset and/or Stipend), or the University International Fee Remission Research Scholarship (IFRRS), which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential.