Program Overview

Master of Research - Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences

The Master of Research degree comprises research and research training, requiring students to complete 96 credit points (cp) of subjects. The first year comprises 48cp of research training and coursework while the second year comprises a 48cp thesis, which may be assessed by two external examiners. Academic Units may award advanced standing for the research training and coursework component and will determine the appropriate entry point.

Overview

The Master of Research degree is designed to provide students with advanced research training and skills in their chosen field. The degree is available in various specialisations, including Mathematics, Applied Statistics, Physics, Medical Radiation Physics, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mining Engineering.

Mechanical Engineering (research area)

The mechanical engineering specialisation focuses on design, where students will develop their knowledge of design and engineering sciences through courses such as heat transfer and thermodynamics, dynamics and control, aerodynamics, structural design and solid mechanics as well as a range of advanced technical coursework. Students will also study subjects in finite element techniques in mechanical engineering, strategic management for engineers and technologists, and integrated manufacturing systems. Additionally, students will complete an advanced project.

Accreditation & professional recognition

The Master of Engineering (Mechanical) has been awarded full accreditation with Engineers Australia.

Admissions information

A range of admission options are available for future students. The procedures governing admission are defined in UOW's Admissions Procedures, and the UOW College Admissions Policy.

• Entry Requirements:
  • Applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s coursework degree from a recognised tertiary institution with a minimum average mark of 65% or a GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0.
  • The Head of Postgraduate Studies for the relevant unit will approve entry into the Master of Research based on academic results and relevant experience.
• Additional Requirements:
  • All applicants for the Master of Research must submit a written (preferably typed) proposal as part of their application.
  • The proposal should contain, in no more than one page, a clear description of the discipline area or project topic the student wishes to study or undertake for the Master of Research 48cp thesis.
  • The proposal should conclude with a statement of motivation for wanting to undertake the research course.
• English Language Requirements:
  • The following level of English is required to gain admission to this program:
    • IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
    • TOEFL (Internet-based): 86 overall, with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 18 in Writing, 17 in Listening, and 17 in Speaking
    • UOW College: English for Tertiary Studies: Credit (weighted average mark of 65 overall and minimum 50 in Academic Reading and Writing)

Workload

• Full-Time Study Load: As a full-time student, you can expect to commit around 48 hours of study per week. This includes class time and independent study. You may need to factor more time for examination study and practical work & placements.

Credit for Prior Learning

• Applicants who have completed the Bachelor of Research will be eligible for 48 credit points of specified credit.
• Applicants who have completed alternative end on and embedded honours programs will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
• If you have completed prior studies or relevant professional experience, you can request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.

Fees

• International Course fees table:
  • Campus: Wollongong
  • Delivery method: On Campus
  • Session fee: $23,184 (2025)
  • Course fee: $92,736 (2025)
• Session fees are for one session for the year shown. Total course tuition fees shown are indicative, and are based on normal course length and progression. These fees are subject to change from year to year.
• Additional Fees:
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF)

Key dates

• Autumn Session, 2025 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: See important dates for more information
  • Orientation: Check your campus details
  • Session: 03 March - 27 June 2025
• Spring Session, 2025 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: See important dates for more information
  • Orientation: Check your campus details
  • Session: 28 July - 20 November 2025
• Autumn Session, 2026 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: Applications must include all required documents to be considered complete. If submitted late, your application may be reviewed for a future session if a decision cannot be made in time for your preferred session.
  • Session Details:
    • Orientation: Check your campus details
    • Session start: 2 March, 2026
    • Census date: 31 March, 2026
    • Mid-session recess: 20-24 April, 2026
    • Session end: 25 June, 2026
• Spring Session, 2026 at UOW:
  • Application Deadline: Applications must include all required documents to be considered complete. If submitted late, your application may be reviewed for a future session if a decision cannot be made in time for your preferred session.
  • Session Details:
    • Orientation: Check your campus details
    • Session start: 27 July, 2026
    • Census date: 31 August, 2026
    • Mid-session recess: 28 September - 2 October, 2026
    • Session end: 19 November, 2026

Research areas

• The following specialisations are available in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences:
  • Mathematics
  • Applied statistics
  • Physics
  • Medical radiation physics
  • Computer science
  • Information technology
  • Electrical engineering
  • Computer engineering
  • Telecommunications engineering
  • Civil engineering
  • Environmental engineering
  • Materials engineering
  • Mechatronic engineering
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Mining engineering

Duration and delivery

• Duration: 2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
• Delivery: On Campus
• Campus: Wollongong

Codes

• CRICOS: M
• UOW: 480

Start dates

• Autumn 2025
• Spring 2025