The Master of Philosophy (BEES) is recognised as a postgraduate research degree that sits somewhere between a BSc and a PhD. It is designed to be completed over 1.5 to 2 years, during which three subjects of coursework are undertaken and a supervised research project is completed in the supervisor's research laboratory. The outcomes of the research project are documented in a thesis, which is examined.
This qualification allows students to experience modern and sophisticated laboratory techniques that apply to a wide range of biological, earth and environmental fields.
Program
How an MPhil (BEES) differs from Honours
The MPhil (BEES) should be considered as an alternative to an Honours year for students. The entry requirement for Honours or an MPhil (BEES) is the same, an overall WAM of 65 (credit) or higher. HECS is applicable to the Honours year, whereas MPhil (BEES) is classified as a research degree, so does not qualify for HECS.
| Honours | MPhil | |
| Purpose | Intended for students just completing their undergraduate degree as an opportunity to apply their learning to a research project as a pathway to a Higher Degree Research (PhD). | An alternative to Honours that is a standalone postgraduate degree in research training. Often taken by those returning to study and are interested in a research career. Also a pathway to a Higher Degree Research (PhD). |
| Entry requirements | A 65 (credit) average or higher in all stage 1-3 courses and stage 3 Science courses. | Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline from UNSW or equivalent qualification from an tertiary institution, and approved supervision. |
| Duration | 1 year full time | 1.5 to 2 years full time |
| Offered part-time? | No | Yes |
| Coursework involved? | No – 100% research | Yes, 18UOC of research training coursework is undertaken in the 1st year of candiature
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| Fees |
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| Centrelink (domestic students only) |
Eligible for Centrelink payments | Not eligible for Centrelink payments |
- Purpose
- Honours
- Intended for students just completing their undergraduate degree as an opportunity to apply their learning to a research project as a pathway to a Higher Degree Research (PhD).
- MPhil
- An alternative to Honours that is a standalone postgraduate degree in research training. Often taken by those returning to study and are interested in a research career. Also a pathway to a Higher Degree Research (PhD).
- Entry requirements
- Honours
- A 65 (credit) average or higher in all stage 1-3 courses and stage 3 Science courses.
- MPhil
- Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline from UNSW or equivalent qualification from an tertiary institution, and approved supervision.
- Duration
- Honours
- 1 year full time
- MPhil
- 1.5 to 2 years full time
- Offered part-time?
- Honours
- No
- MPhil
- Yes
- Coursework involved?
- Honours
- No – 100% research
- MPhil
- Yes, 18UOC of research training coursework is undertaken in the 1st year of candiature
- Fees
- Honours
- Eligible for HECS for domestic students
- Full fees payable for international students
- Commonwealth-supported domestic students must pay the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee, opens in a new window (full fee-paying students are exempt)
- MPhil
- Detailed information on fees and costs can be found here.
- Domestic students: no tuition fees.
The Australian Government Research Program (RTP) Fee Offset Scholarship funds all tuition fees for research and coursework enrolment. - International students: required to pay full Tuition Fees for the duration of your candidature unless granted a scholarship or sponsorship that covers these fees.
- The UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee is charged each term the candidate is enrolled
- Centrelink
(domestic students only)
- Honours
- Eligible for Centrelink payments
- MPhil
- Not eligible for Centrelink payments
Research component
Research projects are the same as for Honours. Disciplines include:
- Animal ecology & evolution
- Biogeography, geography & spatial analysis
- Climate science
- Environmental science & conservation
- Genetics
- Marine science
- Palaeo, Earth, water & geoscience
- Plant ecology & evolution
View the current BEES Honours Projects Website and BEES Research Centre pages for potential MPhil projects and supervisor contacts.
Entry eligibility
- Please visit UNSW's Master of Philosophy website for details on Entry requirements
How to apply for an MPhil (BEES)
- Please visit HDR Application Process website to apply