The degree of Master of Philosophy is available in all Faculties of the University and is awarded without classification on the basis of examination of a major thesis. The requirements for the degree shall be completed by submission of a thesis, which demonstrates the ability of a candidate to conduct a research program, a command of the knowledge and skills pertinent to the area of investigation, and a critical appreciation and understanding of the relationship of the candidates work to the work of others within the subject area according to the literature.

An applicant for admission to candidature for the degree of Master of Philosophy must have completed one of the following:

1. An appropriate undergraduate degree with Honours at a minimum level of Second Class Division A (Distinction average); or
2. Postgraduate research training (eg coursework completed to distinction level or higher or a master-by-coursework degree); or
3. Demonstrated research experience with evidence of capacity to undertake independent research work (eg an authored publication).

Meeting the eligibility requirements for admission is not in itself a guarantee of admission. The candidate’s potential to undertake research, the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, the availability of appropriate supervision and the referee’s reports will all be taken into consideration