#13 worldwide for education and educational research
#1 in Australia for research in higher education
Pathway to a PhD
Why choose Deakin
This is a supervised research program. The research of each candidate is conducted under the supervision of a full-time member of the academic staff. Candidates are required to participate in an oral colloquium about one third of the way through candidature in which the proposed research is defended, and will ultimately to submit a thesis embodying the results of their research. The thesis may be a single volume of disciplinary scholarship or a folio consisting of an exegesis and two to four research products relating to professional practice.
Candidates showing significant promise as research students may be invited to transfer their enrolment to the Doctor of Philosophy program. This generally occurs at or post colloquium. Transfer is dependent on meeting the academic requirements for PhD entry and must have the full support of the principal supervisor.
-
World-leading supervisors
Research alongside internationally recognised experts shaping the future of education at the nation's leading university for higher education research.
-
Access leading education research communities
Connect with Deakin researchers advancing educational impact, assessment and digital learning through Deakin’s Centre for Research for Educational Impact and the Deakin Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning (Deakin CRADLE).
-
Strengthen your research direction
Defend your proposed research at an oral colloquium early in your candidature, gaining feedback to strengthen your research before progressing your thesis.
-
Progress to a PhD
Build advanced research capability and create a strong pathway to a PhD and research careers across education, government and industry.
Connected to industry
Engaging with industry during your PhD or masters by research ensures your research is relevant, future‑focused and positioned to create impact. Develop the skills your future employers need with industry-embedded projects, co‑supervision arrangements, access to partner facilities and opportunities to translate research into practice.
Related courses
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
Course structure
How your research degree is structured
Your Masters by Research is built around your own independent research project and the contribution you want to make. Over two years full-time (part-time available), you'll work closely with an expert supervisory team to investigate a problem, question or opportunity, hone your specialisation and contribute new insights to your field. Your research program will be shaped by your project, discipline and research goals.
Your research
Undertake an independent research project in your field, culminating in a masters thesis of up to 50,000 words. Thesis formats can vary depending on your discipline and research.
Your supervision
Work closely with an expert supervisory team who will guide your research and support your progress throughout your degree.
Your development
Build capabilities beyond your thesis through Deakin's Researcher Development Academy, with tailored opportunities to strengthen your research practice, grow your networks and develop your engagement and career skills.
Your industry opportunities
Depending on your project, you may have opportunities to connect your research with industry, build professional networks and gain experience translating research into practice.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
What to expect while studying
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in one or more discipline areas by generating substantial contribution to knowledge through the use of appropriate research principles and methods. |
| Apply critical analysis and reflection to ethically research, synthesize and evaluate complex information, problems, concepts, interpretations and theories to demonstrate cognitive and technical skills in a body of knowledge or practice. Effectively disseminate research outcomes to a variety of audiences using highly developed communication skills and work productively within a team of experts in the field. |
| Demonstrate autonomy, expert judgement, adaptability, initiative, resilience and responsibility as a practitioner or learner. |
Approved by Faculty Board July 2016
- Award granted
- Master of Education (Research)
- Year
2027 course information
- Deakin code
- E850
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 006243K Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Warrnambool
- Level
- Higher Degree Research
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$41,000
for 1 yr full-time AUD
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.
Scholarships
Deakin offers generous scholarships and financial support for your research degree or PhD, helping cover tuition fees and living expenses while you study.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Get all the information you need to successfully apply for a Deakin research degree or PhD, including key dates, entry requirements, supporting documents and finding a research supervisor. We’re here to support you through the process.