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Masters by Research in Australia - Career prospects, Eligibility & Requirements
If research excites you, pursuing MRes in Australia can be a great choice for you
If you are a student who wants to excel in a specified field and are excited by research and studying about a subject in-depth, then Masters by Research could be one of the best options for you.
What is Masters by Research?
A Masters by Research (MRes) or a master’s degree with research is an advanced research-based qualification which allows the student to conduct in-depth research in their desired field and independently handle a single large research project. The degree aims to prepare researchers, either for professional work or for pursuing a PhD. Since the degree is more independent, it doesn’t have a set timetable to follow. Instead, students are expected to carry out the research as one or more extended projects under the guidance of a faculty supervisor. The degree sharpens the skills and knowledge gained during undergraduate study, as it primarily involves advance research in a chosen field and critical evaluation of different research methodologies.
An important aspect of this degree which separates it from M.Phil. is that it’s a practice-led research project with taught classes on research techniques and scientific principles.
Why pursue Masters by Research
The degree can be your best fit if you are interested in academic research or pursue a profession which majorly involves applying research skills. Given the scope of the course, this degree will allow you to focus on an independent project to gain associated research skills or undertake a comprehensive research degree (such as a PhD) further.
The degree is shorter, research-focused and a stand-alone program with a pathway to PhD. Many professionals with limited research background opt for masters by research. It has a lower pre-requisite entry criterion compared to a PhD entry, that is for more experienced scholars.
Eligibility requirements
The basic admission requirements to pursue an MRes degree are similar to a taught MA or MSc:
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject with an eligible score, preferred with some research experience
A research proposal, or a personal statement describing your academic goals and interests
The thesis of 20,000 -50,000 words on the relevant subject in the desired field
A good score in English language proficiency test such as IELTS with a minimum overall score of 6.5 bands and no module with less than 6 band
It helps if you have undertaken some research work in the past. Without prior experience, it might be a little difficult to get direct entry into a Masters by Research program. Another option is to upgrade your Masters degree to MRes after you complete a part of it. This will be based on the recommendation and approval of your program faculty and evaluation of your research skills, paper presentation and performance on campus.
Duration : Usually, a Masters by Research degree takes about two years of full-time study. Some institutions may also offer it as a 2-4 years part-time course.
Career prospects after MRes
The course opens multiple avenues for you. You may either continue it to a PhD, take up a job or even publish your academic journal post the submission of your thesis. This research degree can help you land a great job in your relevant industry and as an entry-level graduate, you can earn a minimum salary of AUD 72,000 to AUD 90,000*.
Scholarships available
Australian universities inspire a lot of research aspirants by offering them scholarships to carry out their research; however, the scholarship amount varies as per student and university profile. There are several high achievers, vacation research, vice-chancellor and president’s scholarships available that address local, national and international grand challenges and ensure that students work across traditional boundaries in the university i.e., with industry and community partners.
Needless to say, if you have any queries at all, feel free to contact us at IDP and we will make sure you find your right fit.
*Source: https://www.payscale.com/research/AU/Job=Researcher%2C_Scientific/Salary
IDP Study Abroad Insights
For students like you interested in studying in Australia, we have a wonderful series – Study abroad Insights. This web series covers most commonly asked questions about studying in the country answered by industry experts.