Master of Philosophy - Agricultural Sciences

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is an internationally recognised masters (by research) degree.

It is designed for students to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research.

The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship in the area of research.The normal length of an MPhil thesis is 30,000-40,000 words, exclusive of words in tables, maps bibliographies and appendices.

Footnotes are included as part of the word limit.

Course structure

All candidates for the MPhil will be examined on the basis of their thesis. A candidate will have appropriately experienced supervisor(s) and an Advisory Committee who, in consultation with the candidate, arranges a course of supervised research designed to suit the individual requirements and interests of the candidate. A candidate may be required to supplement their research program by attendance at, or enrolment in, additional subjects if considered necessary by the supervisor(s).

Expected duration of candidature is 18 months (full-time equivalent). Two extensions of three months each may be allowed. For local students, RTP is available for a maximum of two years (full-time equivalent).

Last updated: 16 March 2020

Entry requirements

MPhil applicants will be assessed using the criteria described below. The measures include an assessment of a candidate’s knowledge of the discipline and evidence of their ability to complete a rigorous research project. Applicants are required to meet the minimum standards described below.

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

• a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% in the final year subjects or (University of Melbourne) equivalent;

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 and achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent;

or

• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent;
• and
• submit a research proposal; and
• provide referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years); and
• obtain 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; and
• performance at interview; and
• understanding of the research question to be explored; and
• motivation and capacity to complete the course in a timely manner; and
• prior research and/or professional experience; and
• referee reports.

3. The selection committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application.

4. The minimum English language requirements for this course are: Band 6.5.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

All MPhil candidates are required to complete the equivalent of at least six months full-time (12 months part-time) advanced study and research at the University unless studying at an outside institution approved by the Research Higher Degrees Committee (RHDC). The RHDC will not approve entirely distance supervision or entirely on-line supervision for research higher degree students.

Throughout their candidature candidates are expected to attend the University in order to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up their research within a University community and environment. The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the first six months of candidature. During this time the student is expected to interact on a regular basis with the supervisor, the department (including staff and other research students) and the University, so as:

• to build the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out the proposed research program;
• to acquire an understanding of the standards and requirements for an MPhil awarded by the University; and
• to make use of support programs and facilities provided by the Faculty and the University throughout the period of candidature.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the University’s programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of the course students should be able to:

• demonstrate advanced learning in research skills and mastery of appropriate techniques, such as the use of archival or primary evidence, analysis of data, judgment of conflicting evidence, etc;
• demonstrate specialist knowledge in the area of their research;
• present the results of their research in publishable quality or work towards incorporating their findings in further research;
• gain access to certain types of employment through this specialist qualification; and
• demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, research ethics or code of practice.