Program Overview

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Master of Science (Physiotherapy)

Overview

The Master of Science (Physiotherapy) by Research is a postgraduate research degree comprising a substantial research project culminating in submitting a thesis or equivalent for independent examination by two external examiners. A master’s by research degree is recommended for students who wish to enhance their knowledge, develop their career potential, or anticipate applying for a Professional Doctorate or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the future.

Why Study This Degree?

The Master of Science (Physiotherapy) by Research is designed for students who wish to expand their career and embark on a research project. The University of Notre Dame Australia is dedicated to the growth of strong and innovative research culture, with a higher degree by research student population and external collaborative partnerships.

Research Focus

The School of Health Sciences has developed strength in a number of research areas, including:

• Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy (adult and paediatric)
• Paediatric neurology
• Musculoskeletal rehabilitation
• Clinical pain sciences
• Exercise prescription
• Burns clinical research

Program Summary

The Masters by Research is a thesis-based research degree, normally comprised exclusively of supervised research, but can include research training coursework if appropriate.

Supervision

As a Masters by Research candidate, you are required to have a minimum of two supervisors who will provide support and academic guidance throughout your degree. Your supervisors will assist you with the preparation of your research proposal, continuing to mentor and direct you throughout the research phase and through the process of examination.

Mode of Study and Assessment

You may undertake the program either in a full-time or part-time capacity. The standard time for completion (not including periods of approved leave of absence) is normally two years for a full-time student, and four years for a part-time student. The minimum time for completion will normally be one year. Once completed, your Masters thesis will be assessed by two external examiners.

Entry Requirements

The following criteria apply to students seeking admission to the Master of Research program:

• Possession of an undergraduate degree from a recognised university which has been completed at a superior standard and which demonstrates the applicant’s potential to undertake and complete research-based study at AQF level 9 equivalence.
• In exceptional circumstances, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the Dean of the School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Master’s level.

You may be required to demonstrate an 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 Masters of Science (Physiotherapy) graduates will be able to:

1. Apply high level cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialised research project that makes a contribution to knowledge, professional practice and/or creative practice
2. Investigate, analyse, synthesise, 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 Science (Physiotherapy) degree will enhance your knowledge, develop your career potential, or help you apply for a Professional Doctorate or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the future. Careers include roles in healthcare, medical research, public health and regulation.

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. Domestic students are also encouraged to apply for stipend scholarships, which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential. The scholarships designed to help with general living costs for the duration of the research degree.

International Students

The University is keen to support high calibre 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.

Fees and Costs

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

International Full-Fee Paying

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 your program.

Research Training Program (RTP)

The Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to support students who are undertaking a Higher Degree by Research such as a Research Doctorate or Research Masters degree. You will receive support for a maximum of two years for a Research Masters and a maximum of four years for a Research Doctorate degree. Your offer will specify for which purpose(s) your grant may be used. This may include offset of your tuition fees, as a stipend for general living costs or as an allowance related to the ancillary cost of research degrees.

For indicative fees and information on Postgraduate and Research Scholarships available, please visit our HDR Scholarships page.

For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.