Master of Research
Degree Level Research
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Campus
Magill
City West
Duration
2 year(s) full-time
Program Code
MRCV
Study as
Full-time
or part-time
Program level
Masters by research
Fees
Fees for research students that have exceeded their RTP entitlement are calculated at the course level.
Refer to the Research Training Program
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Entry requirements
You must check the entry requirements for the type of research degree you wish to apply for and make sure you are eligible.
Please note- If you are an international applicant you also need to check that you meet the English language requirements.
- Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not automatically guarantee entry into a research degree.
Degree overview
- Benefit from our extensive national and international research links, and strong record in winning national competitive grants.
- Undertake exciting and innovative research in a range of disciplines.
- Work under the guidance of experienced and highly qualified research supervisors.
- Learn from visiting scholars and artists.
- We have been widely recognised for our world-class research in visual arts, design, creative arts and writing, language, communication and culture, design and contemporary art1.
- UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities2, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
2UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.
Why do a research degree?
UniSA research is inspired by the challenges and opportunities of today. In the 2018 Australian Research Council Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluation of Australian universities, all of our assessed research was rated at world class or above. We are vibrant, outward-facing and responsive. We partner with industry, government and communities to seek answers to questions that arise in the real world.
Learn more about our research.
The transformed PhD
UniSA intends to deliver industry and end-user informed research that supports employer-relevant curriculum. To achieve this, and to produce entrepreneurial and business-aware graduates, we have developed the transformed PhD.
We have added a structured component to research degrees including enhanced skill development, supervisory panels and a technology-enabled oral defence of the thesis. Through these activities you will develop a set of professional, transferable skills relevant to our knowledge-based enterprise economy.
The aim of the transformed PhD is to increase your employment prospects in any career path. You will possess the knowledge, expertise and confidence to meet the emerging needs of academia, industry, government and the community.
Four good reasons to do a research degree
- Challenge yourself. You will need to work hard, be dedicated and think analytically at a high level. You will tackle completely new research and different research methods, or extend research already undertaken.
- Increase your career opportunities. A research degree provides evidence of independent thought and the ability to manage a research project in a given timeframe. Your research could allow you to develop a new specialisation, academic field or career. A research degree at UniSA will also allow you to develop a skillset which sets you apart, putting you at the centre of your professional development.
- Make your ideas public. Your research findings may be published, presented at conferences, provide a commercial return and have a positive impact on society.
- Contribute to society. Discover new methods, understandings and techniques, and solve a real-world problem.
What can I research?
We offer Master of Research candidates the opportunity to undertake exciting and innovative research in the following disciplines:
- creative industries
- design
- contemporary art
- architecture
- planning
- digital arts
- media and communication
- creative writing
- performing arts
- music
- film studies
- journalism
- media arts
Why Master of Research
UniSA provides a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment where you are encouraged to explore your own ideas under the supervision of some of Australia’s leading researchers.
We are widely recognised for our world-class research in contemporary art, design, creative arts and writing, language, communication and culture, architecture and the built environment1.
In addition, we will ensure you graduate with transferable career skills that complement your research experience and enhance your global capability when you complete the Engaged Higher Degree by Research program. As part of this degree, you will complete skill development workshops and master-classes aligned to your interests.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
Thinking of studying soon?
2025
Ready to start your studies in 2025? You can apply to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now before continuing on to the new Adelaide University in 2026.
When the time comes to transfer, we’ll be here at every step, ensuring you’re well supported with personalised advice and a detailed study plan.
2026
Planning to start your studies in 2026? You can apply to Adelaide University directly.
Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.
Have any questions? We're here to help! Contact Adelaide University's Future Student Enquiries Team.
Your career
A Master of Research will give you a competitive edge in the workplace. You may choose to pursue a career in academia, or in research with a research institution or university. Alternatively, you may choose to work in your chosen specialisation. A research degree graduate at the University of South Australia:
- understands current research-based knowledge in their field and its methodologies for creating new knowledge, understandings and insights within a critical context.
- is prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of ongoing personal development and excellence in research within and beyond a discipline or professional area.
- is an effective problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of research problems.
- is committed to ethical action and social responsibility as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.
- communicates effectively as a researcher in a discipline or professional area and as a leading member of the community.
- demonstrates international perspectives in research in a discipline or professional area and as a leading citizen.
Before applying, you will need to do some investigation. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process of preparing your application to maximise your chances of success.
Please check the research degrees calendar for all key dates.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you.
Research Training Program domestic (RTPd) and UniSA Postgraduate Awards
These scholarships are based in areas of research strength across the University and include a stipend and fee offset.
Research Themes PhD Scholarships
These scholarships address local, national and international grand challenges, and encourage collaboration with industry and community partners.
Your study spaces
Opportunities exist to study at Magill and City West campuses, depending on your area of research.
Magill campus:
Magill campus is on stunning grounds, with campus features including:
- multimedia studios and editing suites
- theatre for stage productions
- TV and radio studio
- gym and outdoor sports field
City West campus:
City West is a state-of-the-art campus in Adelaide’s west end. Campus features include:
- Australia’s only Architecture Museum
- specialised computer suites
- photography darkrooms and studios
- Samstag Museum
- MOD. – Australia’s leading future-focussed museum
- award-winning contemporary art, architecture and design studios and workshops
- state-of-the-art facilities for rapid prototyping and interactive media
- South Australian School of Art Gallery
- Gym and swimming pool
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How do I apply?
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/Research/Degrees/
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What scholarships am I eligible for as a research degree student?
You are eligible for a range of scholarships and grants as a current research student. For example, the prestigious Vice Chancellor and President’s Scholarship, Maurice de Rohan International Travel Scholarships or one of UniSA’s International Travel Grants.
See Scholarships and Prizes for more information.
