Master of Philosophy, Earth Sciences

Exceptional research degrees at ANU

The Australian National University provides our MPhil candidates with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support. When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program.

As an MPhil candidate you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.

MPhil graduates are valued by a range of employers for their demonstrated creativity, innovation, independence, research and problem-solving abilities, and organisational skills. An MPhil in Earth Sciences can lead to a whole new world of opportunities. For example, you may:

• become an educator or science communicator;
• become a scientist in a university, industry or government research organisation;
• help understand the environmental challenges facing modern society and participate in development of solutions;
• gain access to a wide range of careers, not just in academic research.

During your MPhil studies at RSES, you may undertake field work in interesting and remote parts of the world, use and help develop cutting edge analytical and experimental equipment and techniques, and attend and present the findings of your original research at an international conference.

Admission Requirements

At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

Admission to a Master of Philosophy is also subject to supervisory capacity, availability of appropriate infrastructure and resources, and approval from the relevant Delegated Authority within the Academic College.

Applicants must:

1. Present a relevant Bachelor degree or international equivalent

2. Have the written approval of an identified supervisor for the research project/thesis.

3. Provide:

4. All applicants must meet the University’s English Language Admission Requirements for Students

Employment Opportunities

Career options following the Master of Philosophy include many opportunities in addition to research or technical roles in academic institutions.  Some of our alumni are employed by research institutions such as CSIRO and ANSTO; others work in the mineral industry either in mines or exploration companies; other alumni are in private consulting from environment to water management and mineral resources; others are employed at Geoscience Australia or the State Geological Surveys; Government Departments in various fields are another destination for Earth Science Graduates; there is also a continuing need for geologically qualified secondary school teachers.