Master of Philosophy (Arts and Social Sciences)
What you’ll study
Candidates for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) research and write a thesis on an approved topic. All research is done under the supervision of a member of our academic staff.
The MPhil is offered in disciplines ranging across the visual arts and art history, archaeology and classics, diverse languages and their cultures, economics, English language and literature, ancient, medieval and modern history, philosophy, the global political economy and international governance, sociology and cultural studies, media and communications, education and social work.
If you choose to continue with further research, the MPhil offers an internationally recognised pathway to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Research areas
MPhil candidates in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences undertake research in over 40 subject areas based in the faculty’s six schools. These are the Schools of Economics; Education and Social Work; Languages and Cultures; Art, Communication and English; Humanities; and Social and Political Sciences.
Research may also be undertaken in association with the University of Sydney’s humanities and social sciences research centres or groups.
Completion requirement
To satisfy the requirements of the degree candidates must:
- complete any specified probationary requirements and specified milestones; and,
- conduct research on an approved topic, and,
- write a thesis of a minimum of 30,000 and upper limit of 50,000 words (including footnotes). This length may be exceeded by up to 10,000 words with the permission of the Associate Dean (Research Education).
Thesis submission requirements and examination procedure as set out in the Academic Board resolutions for this course and the Higher Degree (HDR) Rule 2011.
In addition to submitting your thesis, you will be required to successfully complete an oral examination as part of the requirements for the award of your research degree.
For current students, refer to the latest faculty handbook
2026 tuition fees
Qualified domestic Higher Degree by Research students in Australia can have their tuition fees covered by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset, an Australian Government program. Depending on their course, students with this offset can study for up to 4 years for a Doctorate by Research or 2 years for a Master's Degree by Research. Eligibility and duration of this benefit may change in accordance with applicable laws and university regulations.
Please visit our RTP Scholarships page for more details on eligibility, how applications are assessed, and application submission deadlines
Your Fees Explained
This is an estimate
This is an indicative amount based on 1 year of full-time study
Additional costs, fees and incidentals
For most courses, there are other costs in addition to the tuition and/or student contribution amount, such as the Student Services Amenities Fee. Some are significant and can include course-specific materials, tools, protected clothing and equipment. Other costs may include application fees and credit card surcharges.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Mandatory for course entry
To be eligible for admission to the Master of Philosophy (Arts and Social Sciences) you must have completed the equivalent of one of the following in a subject area related to your proposed research area:
- bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent institution, with a minimum Honours Second Class, Division 1 in the subject area in which the applicant wishes to proceed; or
- a master's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent institution, completed by coursework, in a relevant subject area, with a Distinction average for the coursework component and which contained an independent research component that comprised 25% of the requirements for the award of the degree and for which the applicant achieved a result of Distinction or above; or
- a master's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent institution, in a relevant subject area, completed by research.
These constitute the minimum requirements for eligibility and do not guarantee admission. This remains at the discretion of the relevant supervisors and departments. The University must certify that there are sufficient supervisory and other resources and facilities available to enable your candidature to be completed successfully.
English Language Requirements
Mandatory for course entry
How to apply
Before applying
To apply for admission follow these steps:
- Find a potential supervisor within the University whose academic background aligns with your research. If you need assistance finding a supervisor, please contact the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Research Education Team ([email protected]).
- When contacting your potential supervisor you should describe your academic educational background and research experience, and include an academic transcript and CV (resume). You should also include a research proposal (approximately 1000 words); refer to How to write a research proposal for guidance. You should explain why you want to undertake an MPhil and how you believe your research topic aligns with the supervisor’s own research.
- Your potential supervisor may offer you advice on developing a research proposal before you submit your application. You will need to provide a written statement from your potential supervisor that they have agreed to supervise your project.
- Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements and research potential.
- If you intend to study part-time towards an MPhil (international student visa holders must enrol full-time), you will also need to supply: evidence that shows you will have sufficient time available to plan and carry out the research under the supervision of the University, and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time MPhil enrolment.
- Applications are made via the University’s online application portal. Submit your application together with:
- your research proposal,
- your CV (curriculum vitae, resumé),
- two academic referee reports,
- your post-school academic transcripts,
- written statement from your potential supervisor that they have agreed to supervise your project,
- supporting documents, such as identification and evidence of residency status.
- other supporting evidence as required.
When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply Now’ button on the right-hand side of this page.
Please confirm all requirements for scholarship applications and note that separate scholarship application deadlines apply.
Submit application
Applications for the MPhil in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences are assessed in two rounds annually.
Research intakes
Research Period 2: Start date 1 March (apply by 30 September year prior)
Research Period 3: Start date 1 July (apply by 31 March same year)
Refer to key research dates on the `How to Apply' website.
