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Research

Master of Philosophy

CRICOS: 089243A

Are you ready to make a significant contribution to your field through original research? The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program at Alphacrucis University College is designed for individuals like you who aspire to engage in advanced research and develop innovative solutions in Theology, Business, Social Science or Education. This program offers a unique opportunity to set yourself apart as a thought leader and expert in your chosen field.

Course Duration
1.5 years full time, up to 6 years part time
Study Modes
Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*, Brisbane*, Melbourne*, Perth*, Adelaide*, Hobart*, Korean 한국어학부
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$2,650 per subject
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Subjects
3 Subjects (120 credit points)
Speak to enrolment advisorDownload Course Guide

What is the Master of Philosophy?

The Master of Philosophy is a research-intensive postgraduate course that equips you with the skills needed to conduct independent, original research. Ideal for those who have completed a coursework Master's degree and wish to delve deeper into their field of study, the Master of Philosophy provides a pathway to further doctoral studies. Cross-disciplinary research is also encouraged, enabling you to explore innovative intersections like Theology and Economics or Communication in Education.

Who is this for?

Are you driven to conduct original research and contribute to your field?

Do you have a coursework Master’s degree and seek to pursue further independent research?

Are you looking to specialise in Theology, Social Science, Business, or Education, or explore cross-disciplinary areas?

Do you aspire to develop advanced skills in critical thinking, communication, and creative problem-solving?

If these goals resonate with you, the Master of Philosophy is designed to help you achieve them!

Outcomes

Prepare for roles as a lecturer, trainer, or academic researcher.

Enhance your qualifications for leadership positions in the church, business, education, and community sectors.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
3 Subjects
120 Credit Points
Research Methods RES701
This subject is the foundational class for all MPhil studies. Students will be taught advanced research skills across the main disciplines of theological and ministry studies. They will also develop some of the early research of what will become their major project.
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Research Thesis RES703

This unit is designed to equip students to be independent researchers and make a substantial contribution toward advancement of knowledge and practice within their chosen field. Through this subject, students will undertake a thesis in consultation with an approved supervisor.

This subject is available for study on either a full‑time or part‑time basis.

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XXX706 Advanced Studies in Discipline Area (choose 1 of the following subjects based on your area of specialisation)
Advanced Research in Theology THE706

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Advanced Research in Education EDU706

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Advanced Research in Business BUS706

This subject has been designed to assist students in crafting a comprehensive research proposal in their discipline area. Throughout the semester, students will engage in monthly meetings with their dedicated research supervisor, who will provide valuable feedback on draft versions of the research student’s work. Working independently and collaboratively ensures that the final proposal represents a viable research project proposition. By the end of the subject, students should have a well-researched and articulated proposal ready for submission.

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Course Information

Download Master of Philosophy Handbook

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

  • Critical, creative and systematic understanding of a substantial and complex body of knowledge that makes an original contribution to a particular area in the field of specialisation.
  • Advanced knowledge of scholarship and recent developments in the area under consideration.
  • Understanding of advanced research principles and methods, and substantial knowledge of specific research approaches used within the chosen field.

Skills

  • Autonomously engage in critical reflection, analysis and synthesis of the body of theoretical knowledge related to a particular area within the field of Theology, Business and/or Education.
  • Establish, incorporate and apply effective research methodologies to advance existing professional knowledge and/or practice.
  • Design a research question that explores an original and complex issue and propose solutions.
  • Communicate effectively the complexity of the research and its findings to peers and the community.
  • Provide creative responses to the contemporary challenges and new developments in research and scholarship within the chosen field.

Ability

  • Apply the knowledge and skills developed within the selected research field to engage with new questions and find innovative and creative solutions.
  • Effectively contribute to regional, national or international professional communities within the selected research field.
  • Work independently and responsibly in the selected research field.
  • Effectively design, implement and communicate a major thesis in the selected research field to contribute original knowledge and expertise to peers and the community.
  • Develop an advanced level of integrative reflection which will inform and enhance professional practice.

Admission Criteria

Entry Requirements

MPhil Admission Criteria

Applicants to this degree should normally have completed a prior research paper/thesis of 12,000 words or more. In some cases, peer reviewed publications (e.g. journal articles) may be accepted in lieu of a prior thesis.

Completion of an AQF Level 8 Bachelors (Honours 1 or 2a) degree in a relevant field, or equivalent.

OR

Completion of an AQF Level 7 bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or equivalent, as well as an AQF Level 8 graduate diploma in a relevant field with at least a 20 credit point research component and an overall GPA at least 2.8.

OR

Completion of an AQF Level 9 or above postgraduate qualification in a relevant field, or equivalent.

International Students – Language Requirements

IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 7.0 (with no score below 7.0 in any of the four skills areas).

Additional Information

Proof of Identity

Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Passport (current and valid)

A supporting document must be submitted in addition to the identity document if an applicant’s name is different on their primary document. (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate)

Applicants may be required to provide a certified copy of their identity documents upon request.

AC does not accept a driver’s license or photo card as sufficient ID.

HDR Application Process

  • Get Started

    Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements. If you have any questions about our programs or would like to discuss a prospective research project further, please let the Graduate Research School know by contacting hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

  • Produce a Research Proposal

    Complete the Research Proposal Template found here (see sample proposal 1and sample proposal 2). This proposal will need to be uploaded to your application form.

  • Contact a prospective Supervisor with your research proposal

    As part of preparing a research proposal, you are required to secure a Supervisor whose expertise aligns with your proposed project. To initiate this process, please contact potential supervisors directly via email to discuss the project. If you require assistance identifying or contacting a suitable supervisor, please reach out to hdr.admin@ac.edu.au.

  • Apply

    Once you have a proposal and a prospective supervisor, please complete the HDR Application for Admission form.

What people say

  • Melissa Brown

    PhD Candidate (Education)

    I am thoroughly enjoying my study with AC. My supervisors are experts in the field, who model both academic rigour and pastoral support in our regular meetings. Because they show such a genuine interest in my research and in me as a student, I am continually encouraged to face the challenges of postgraduate and keep going!

  • Johannes Luetz

    Faculty

    At AC, we are committed to research created for good that makes a positive and transformative impact in society. Through our research centres, world class career researchers and HDR candidates, exciting opportunities are available in a wide range of discipline areas.

  • Rob Waugh

    Masters of Leadership

    I did several subjects online during my Masters studies and can vouch for the great online content. The content was very clear and easy to engage with… I absolutely loved it, particularly the leadership subjects. They have given me a really strong grounding and foundation for what’s next.