Master of Engineering (Research)
The Master of Engineering (Research) offers students the opportunity to undertake supervised research in the related discipline of their choice. Their chosen discipline may include, for example, aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, civil engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, maritime engineering, materials engineering or mechanical and industrial engineering.
Candidates develop a range of skills, including independent thinking, project management, data analysis and critical thinking, as well as refined communication skills. Candidates also learn how to develop hypotheses and design experiments to test them, and to analyse, write about and publish scientific data.
The program fosters the development of independent research skills, making it ideal preparation for those looking to undertake further research through a PhD program and/or pursue a career in research.
Duration
2 years full-time or 4 years part-time
Intakes
Hawthorn (January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December)
Study modes
- Full-time,
- Part-time
Course information in detail
- Course detail and course structure.
Course description
As a Master of Engineering (Research) candidate you will undertake supervised research with the aim of completing a major thesis that demonstrates mastery of inquiry in a field of a discipline or profession.
This program is suited to applicants who:
This program is suited to applicants who:
- Are interested in a career in research
- Have a genuine passion for research of a particular field
- Have a naturally inquiring mind and a desire to know more
- Are interested in undertaking a PhD program in the future
- Wish to gain an internationally recognised qualification
- Want to enhance their research education and/or employment opportunities
Research areas include:
- Engineering (general)
- Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Maritime Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
Find out more about research areas and expertise within the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology.
Course structure
The Master of Engineering (Research) degree is generally completed over a period of two years full-time or four years part-time. Candidates carry out a program of research, investigation or development involving the submission of a substantial major thesis of 50,000 – 60,000 words, which is the sole form of assessment for the degree.
Throughout your candidature you will receive guidance and support from your research supervisors. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of research training sessions on topics such as thesis writing, publishing and presenting.
Throughout your candidature you will receive guidance and support from your research supervisors. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of research training sessions on topics such as thesis writing, publishing and presenting.
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Aims and objectives
As a student in this program you will develop knowledge of research methodology and techniques appropriate to your field of study, and experience in the application of such methodology by conducting a specified program of research under appropriate supervision. In addition, you will develop skills in analysing literature and engaging in debate in the substantive area of the thesis topic at an advanced level.

Graduate skills
A Master of Engineering (Research) graduate is expected to be able to:
- Plan, conduct and complete a research project or program
- Understand relevant techniques in the field demonstrated both by your comprehensive review of the literature and by your research processes
- Access and interpret key data in relevant fields
- Present outcomes clearly and logically using relevant media
Other key skills obtained by research graduates include:
- Independent thinking
- Decision-making skills
- Good judgement
- Logical thought, rationality
- Communication skills
- Project management skills
- Data analysis
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
Pathways and scholarships
- Scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Fees published on this page are estimates only and are subject to change depending on individual circumstances at the time of enrolment. The above fees apply for units studied in 2023 only and may change for units studied in future years. There may be additional costs related to learning material and equipment.
Full course fee
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
If you are not granted a government subsidised place, the full course fee will apply. Check your eligibility now.
Entry requirements
You must have completed a three-year bachelor degree at AQF level 7 (or equivalent) with a minimum average of 65% in the final year units of study. Other relevant experience will also be taken into account in assessing your application.
How to apply
To apply for this degree follow the step-by-step application process.
Find out more
Tel: 03 9214 5412