Master of
Research for Practice (1.5 years)

Advance your expertise through research.

Key information.

Duration
1.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent)

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)
Online

Annual fees

Full details about course fees

*Learn how to offset your course fees

Key information.

Duration
1.5 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Annual fees

$39,400

About these fees.

CRICOS

120165C

Overview

Overview Pathways Program of study Careers Scholarships FAQs How to apply

Enquire now

An efficient, cost-effective pathway to PhD study.

The Master of Research for Practice (1.5 years) is a Higher Degree by Research designed for experienced professionals who want to build strong research skills and progress their careers.

If you’ve built experience in your field, want to pursue research, but haven’t completed an Honours degree, this degree provides a potential pathway to a PhD. You’ll develop advanced research and evaluation skills through coursework with real-world relevance, before undertaking a substantial research thesis. Whether you want to investigate challenges in your profession or progress toward a PhD, this course offers a practical and accessible entry point.

What will you study.

This advanced degree builds your research capabilities through coursework and a supervised research thesis, developing your skills in research methods, critical analysis and independent investigation.

You’ll work closely with experienced academics to undertake a substantial research project relevant to your professional field, developing your ability to evaluate evidence and contribute to knowledge and practice. The course can prepare you for further study, including the opportunity to progress to a PhD, as well as research-related roles across academic, government and professional settings.

Course handbook

Program Structure

In this 54-unit higher degree by research, you'll combine advanced coursework with a substantial supervised thesis.

Advanced Coursework: Build advanced skills in research methods, critical analysis and evaluating evidence
Thesis: Under the guidance of an academic supervisor, you will undertake a thesis focused on a practice-relevant topic
Supervision and academic support: Work closely with experienced supervisors who will provide guidance throughout the process
Research dissemination and assessment: Develop your ability to analyse, synthesise and communicate evidence and findings

Core topics

Core topics may include

Research and evaluation
Research informed decision making
Gathering data in the real world
Evaluating Practice and Policy

Research Areas

Explore your interests and undertake a research project relevant to your professional field, with support from experienced researchers.

Education

Explore questions in education, learning and teaching, from pedagogy and student wellbeing, to policy, leadership, sports education, inclusion, and education technology including AI.

Psychology

Investigate topics related to human behaviour, mental health, wellbeing, development and other areas of psychological science.

Social Work

Explore research that addresses social issues, community wellbeing, social policy and practice in social work and related fields.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Pursue research across a broad range of humanities and social science disciplines, exploring questions relevant to people, communities, culture and society.

Your career and future pathways.

Strengthen your career in education, health, social and policy settings with advanced research skills, or take the next step into a PhD and academic research.

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Expected salary
$115,000^*

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$120,000^*

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Expected salary
$115,000^*

Expected salary
$100,000^*

Pathway to a PhD

The Master of Research for Practice is a higher degree by research that can prepare you for further study, including a PhD. You’ll develop advanced skills through practice-based projects, building your capabilities in research design, critical analysis and independent investigation. These skills and your fully supervised research thesis provide a strong foundation for further study or a career focused on research and evidence-based practice.

Explore PhD opportunities

Scholarship Opportunity

Australian Government Research Training Program

You may be eligible to apply for a full tuition offset and tax-exempt living stipend via the Australian Government’s Research Training Program

Learn more about how to offset your course fees >

Discover South Australia.

Where world-class education meets laid-back coastal living. With pristine beaches, acclaimed wineries, and vibrant festivals at your doorstep, South Australia offers an unmatched student experience.

Discover South Australia

_{Photo credit: SATC}

Learn from the experts.

Our incredible teaching and professional staff are experts in their fields and well-connected to the industry.

James Gordon

Lecturer

See full profile

James Gordon is a social scientist and Lecturer in Evaluation and Research Methods at Flinders University. His research focuses on evidence-based policymaking, wellbeing and public policy reform. Drawing on experience across public administration, economics, finance and sustainability, James works with industry partners on research and evaluation projects that address real-world challenges.

Associate Professor Deb Agnew

Associate Professor

See full profile

Deb Agnew is the HDR Coordinator for the College of Human Sciences and Culture at Flinders University. Her research focuses on sport, integrity, masculinity and athlete transition. An experienced researcher and educator, Deb supports higher degree research students throughout their research journey and works to strengthen research capability and connections.

Flinders University is a future you can count on

Flinders University is ranked top 2% globally.

No. 1 in Australia for postgraduate employment.

78% reported salary increase within 2 years of graduating.

4 in 5 students employed full-time while studying.

Get support.

Need support?

International Student Services (ISS) is the first point of contact for international student support. The university also offers everything from cultural, health, and wellbeing services, to academic support.

Get support

Campus tours

Take a virtual tour of our campuses, guided by your fellow international students.

Discover our campuses

FUSA

Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) is the heart of the Flinders Experience. FUSA is where you'll find out about events, club memberships, and extracurricular activities.

Learn more

Accommodation.

Adelaide has many accommodation options for international students. You can choose to live on campus, at our city accommodation provider The Switch, or in rental accommodation.

Explore accommodation

Scholarships.

Flinders University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to support international students pursue their educational and career goals.

View Scholarships

Get support.

Need support?

From course advice, recognition of prior learning assessments, to study skills and financial support, we’re here to help.

Get support

Industry and professional networks

Connect with Flinders alumni and industry partners through discipline-specific networks, seminars, and career events designed for postgraduate students.

Explore professional networks

Campus facilities

Flinders’ campuses are hubs of activity, with library spaces, study and chill areas, ample parking and more.

Explore our campuses

Scholarships.

Flinders University offers a wide range of postgraduate scholarships to support students pursue their educational and career goals.

Find a scholarship

Frequently asked questions.

Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

What is the Master of Research for Practice at Flinders University?

The Master of Research for Practice (MRP) is a Higher Degree by Research designed for professionals with practice-based experience who want to build advanced research skills and access a supported pathway into a PhD.

Can I do a PhD without an Honours degree in Australia?

Yes. This degree provides an alternative pathway to a PhD in Australia for students without an Honours qualification by building required research experience.

Is the Master of Research for Practice a pathway to a PhD?

Yes. A Master of Research is a recognised pathway to a PhD, with high-performing students able to apply to transfer into doctoral study.

Who is the Master of Research for Practice designed for?

The course is designed for experienced professionals in education, psychology, social work and related fields who want to strengthen their research capability, influence policy or practice, or progress into doctoral research.

What career outcomes can a research degree lead to?

A research degree can lead to careers in policy, education, government, consulting or academia, where advanced research and evaluation skills are highly valued.

Unable to find your answers?

Ask Flinders

Frequently asked questions.

Find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

What documents do I need for my international application?

The type of documents you will need for your international application depends on what course you are applying for and which country you are a citizen of. Course requirements are stated on each course webpage. Examples of documentation you might expect to provide for your international application include a copy of personal identification, academic transcripts or a resume.

When should I apply for my student visa?

Once you have received your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) letter from Flinders University, you should apply for your visa as soon as possible as visa processing times can vary. You will receive your CoE letter after you have applied to study at Flinders, accepted your offer and paid the semester tuition fee.

Apply for a visa

Can I study part-time?

No. Part-time study is currently not available for international students due to visa conditions.

Can I study online?

No. Online study is currently not available for international students due to visa conditions.

What if I don’t meet English language requirements?

If you don’t meet our English language or academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through our on-campus pathway provider Flinders University Academy. Alternatively, you can improve your English language proficiency through our approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.

English language pathways

How do I apply?

You can apply to study as an international student directly through Flinders University or an authorised agent in your country.

If you are from one of the countries listed here, you are required to apply via an education agent. If you reside onshore in Australia, you will not require an agent even if you are from the countries listed above.

Apply now

Find an agent

Can I work while studying in Australia?

Yes. As a student visa (subclass 500) holder, you and your dependents (family members) can work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study is in session. If you have started a master degree by research or doctoral degree, this rule does not apply to you and working hours are not restricted.

Learn more

What support services are available for international students?

Our dedicated International Student Services (ISS) team provide a range of programs supporting your enrolment, study and social life, as well as a referral service to facilities on campus and within the local community.

Explore International Student Services

Unable to find answers? Get in touch with us.

Contact Us

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally hold either a:

Bachelor degree with Honours from an Australian university or an equivalent qualification in a related field from an approved tertiary institution, or

Bachelor degree or an equivalent qualification from an approved tertiary institution and no less than two-years work experience in a related field

Exceptions can be approved in accordance with the Higher Degrees by Research Policy.

Course handbook

Learn more about HDR entry requirements

Fees

The cost of studying a Higher Degree by Research is different to the cost of studying a coursework degree. You do not accrue a HECS debt. Instead, domestic HDR students are normally provided a Research Training Program fee offset to cover tuition fees for up to four years full time equivalent study for a PhD and up to two years full-time equivalent for Masters by Research.

Learn more about HDR fees

How to apply

Review the course rule

Check your eligibility

Find a research supervisor

Find out about scholarships and fees

Prepare your application

Apply now

After you apply

Receive your offer

The Office of Graduate Research at Flinders University will notify you of an offer by emailing the offer letter.

Review your offer

Review the information on the New Students website and select ‘Higher degree by research’.

Accept, defer or decline your offer.

Complete your tasks

There are several onboardings tasks you need to complete in the Student System, including providing your details.

Prepare for your HDR

Read the information below to prepare for your research before you're enrolled.

Get enrolled

Just prior to your Start Date, the Office of Graduate Research will manually admit you into your course, enrol you into your thesis topic and email you an Enrolment Verification with details of your candidature.

Entry requirements
Application options

Entry requirements

English language requirements

If you don’t meet our English language entry requirements and need to improve your English language proficiency, you can do so through our approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.

Please note, a test is required as evidence of English language proficiency even if an English language program has been completed. Tests accepted are Academic IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and OET.

Find out more

Academic program pathways

If you don’t meet our academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through Flinders University Academy. With a range of diplomas, foundation and English language courses, students can find a direct pathway into the destination degree of their choice.

Find out more

How to apply

Select your course.

Check entry requirements.

Check your eligibility for credit.

Apply online

Obtain certified documents.

Submit your application and documents.

View further details

Application options.

Apply online

Follow up our step-by-step guide to help you with your application to study at Flinders.

Start application

Find an agent

Our registered education agents around the world understand the university system and will guide you through the application process.

View the full list of countries requiring agent assistance.

Find an agent

Contact us

Get in touch with our team to discuss your preferences, career options, pathways, and course and entry requirements. We are here to ensure you have everything you need to choose the right degree for you.

Contact us

Don't meet academic requirements? Don't worry. We'll help you get there.

Preparatory courses

If you lack required English proficiency, improve through Flinders University Academy or approved ELICOS providers for direct university entry without IELTS/TOEFL tests.

Learn more

Flinders University Academy

If you do not meet entry requirements for your desired degree, Flinders University Academy will provide you with a direct pathway into the destination degree of your choice.

Learn more