Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar & Shorter Thesis)

The Master of Arts by Research (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) is a graduate research degree designed for students to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research. The program also includes 25 point of coursework subjects. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and skills in a chosen area of study and make an original contribution to the discipline.

On successful completion of the Masters, students should be able to:

• demonstrate an ability to present, argue and demonstrate a coherent hypothesis on an issue in the specialisation, supported by research and analysis; and
• demonstrate aptitude for original research at a higher degree level in the future.

Duration: 1.5 years full-time / 3 years part-time

Program Requirements -

• 25 points of coursework subject/s
• 20,000 to 22,000 word thesis

Please note: students are required to enrol into the minor thesis subject (as per their specialisation) for 3 semesters full time (or part time equivalent)

Specialisations

1. In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed:

• a four-year honours degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 70% in the final year subjects, or (University of Melbourne) equivalent, with a minimum result of 75% for the research component; or
• a Masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 70% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent with a minimum result of 75% for the research component; or
• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent;

and

• a research proposal;
• referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years); and
• the endorsement of a prospective supervisor.

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection

2. In selecting applicants, the selection committee will consider applicants’:

• prior academic performance and, if relevant, professional qualifications;
• understanding of the research question to be explored;
• demonstrated ability in academic writing;
• performance at an interview;
• motivation and capacity to complete the course in a timely manner;
• relevant prior research and/or professional experience; and
• referee reports.

3. The selection committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

4. Applicants are required to satisfy the university’s English language requirements for graduate courses. The minimum English language requirements for this course are: Band 7.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Description, Course Objectives and Generic Skills of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) graduates may proceed to further research in a Doctor of Philosophy degree.

http://learningandteaching.unimelb.edu.au/curriculum/graduates