Program Overview

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Master of Science by Research

The Master of Science by Research is a postgraduate degree that offers advanced, research-based studies in various areas of science.

Course Description

This course aims to extend knowledge in the discipline area alongside knowledge of research methods in those areas of science and management. Students will undertake a significant independent research investigation resulting in a thesis that will have relevance to the above areas of science and management.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level

This course has been accredited by ECU as an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Research) Award.

Course Code

The course code for the Master of Science by Research is I84.

Entry Requirements

ECU admission and English language requirements apply. Academic admission requirements may be satisfied through completion of a Bachelor degree in a cognate discipline or equivalent prior learning, including at least five years of relevant professional experience. English competency requirements may be satisfied through completion of an IELTS Academic test with an overall band minimum score of 6.5, or other equivalent tests or courses.

Admissions

ECU admission profile applies.

Fees

For domestic students, the Australian Government's Research Training Program provides tuition fee offsets. For international students, the estimated first-year indicative fee is AUD $42,850.

Duration

The course duration is 2 years full-time or part-time equivalent.

Availability and Campus

The course is available at the Joondalup campus, with options for full-time or part-time study.

Course Structure

The course structure includes:

• Year 1 - Semester 1: Research Proposal Preparation (40 credit points) and Research Preparation: Principles and Approaches (20 credit points)
• Year 1 - Semester 2: Master Research Preparation (40 credit points) and an elective unit (20 credit points)
• Year 2 - Semester 1 and 2: Master Thesis

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Reflect critically on a complex body of scientific knowledge, research principles, and methods to demonstrate mastery in science.
2. Apply cognitive, technical, and creative skills to investigate and research a complex scientific question.
3. Apply communication and collaboration skills to analyze, interpret, and disseminate research that contributes to scientific knowledge.
4. Use high-level self-management skills to plan and execute a substantial piece of research.

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities exist in research institutions, universities, and private and corporate industries.

Research Areas

The course offers research opportunities in various areas, including:

• Biological science
• Environmental science
• Environmental management
• Sustainability
• Horticulture
• Bioinformatics
• Analytical chemistry
• Physics
• Data science
• Mathematics

Academic Admission Requirements

Academic admission requirements may be satisfied through completion of:

• A Bachelor degree in a cognate discipline
• Equivalent prior learning, including at least five years of relevant professional experience

English Language Requirements

English competency requirements may be satisfied through completion of:

• IELTS Academic test with an overall band minimum score of 6.5
• A Bachelor degree from a country specified on the English Proficiency Bands page
• Successfully completed 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider
• Equivalent prior learning, including at least five years of relevant professional experience
• Other tests, courses, or programs defined on the English Proficiency Bands page