Higher Degrees by Research

Master of Research Studies

CRICOS 115327K
Master of Research Studies | Torrens University Australia

What is a Master of Research Studies?

A Master of Research Studies offers advanced theoretical and technical skills in research management. Students will learn how to contribute to new knowledge through research, and improve professional practice in research proposal writing, ethics, data collection and specific method choices to support projects in advanced professional practice.

Graduates at this level will gain advanced cognitive, technical and communication skills. You will learn to analyse, critically evaluate, and transform information that aids in solving complex business, social or environmental problems.

Throughout your studies you will gain the capacity to apply knowledge and well-developed judgement, to demonstrate autonomy, adaptability and responsibility as a research practitioner.

More

Learning outcomes

  • Critically reflect, synthesise and evaluate a substantial body of knowledge in the chosen field of study to demonstrate cognate discipline knowledge .
  • Apply critical thinking, digital literacy and problem-solving skills to search and critically appraise the existing literature in a cognate discipline in order to develop a framework for your research project. 
  • Demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods in making a substantial contribution in the context of your discipline. 
  • Exhibit the capacity to scope, design and conduct an ethical research project independently.  
  • Use appropriate and coherent communication skills to report and present a research project.
  • Display professional skills including leadership, reflective practice, ongoing learning and accountability by planning and executing a research project in the chosen field of study. 
Study mode
On campus, Online, Blended
Campus locations*
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Online
Student
Domestic
International
Course duration
2 years full time, 4 years part-time
Start date
15 Sep 2025
16 Feb 2026
01 Jun 2026
14 Sep 2026
Fee & scholarships

This course is delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 03389E.

*For more details on international student study options.

Be a catalyst for change
Become an innovative changemaker by challenging current research and finding new ways forward.

Transferable skills and a new career
Build upon your expertise, opening doors to unique career opportunities in academia and industry.

Gain course credit
Take your credits with you into a Master, Doctor or Professional Doctorate qualification.
Higher Degrees by Research careers

Career opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Research Studies have a bright future. They will have demonstrated their preparedness for a career in research management within government, higher education, research centres and private enterprises. Graduates will have demonstrated intellectual leadership, positioning them for roles such as those in the following areas:

  • Policy research
  • Research projects
  • Research & development
  • Academic research
  • Industry and government advising
  • Further study, including the Professional Doctorate or PhD

Higher Degrees by Research at Torren University champions the power of people to connect the world for good. Our values begin and end with people, being good, being creative, being bold, being well and being global. There is at the core of everything we do.
Professor Margee Hume
Dean, Higher Degrees by Research (ProfDoc, MRS, GCRS)

Subjects and units

Delivered on campus or online, the Master of Research Studies comprises eight core subjects and eight Level 500 general electives from the Elective list, each subject requiring 10 hours of study per week; three hours facilitated and seven self-directed. Assessments may include activity-based assignments or online quizzes. There are no formal exams.

Core subjects

  • Critical Literature Review | RES611
  • Developing the Research Proposal | RES612
  • Methodology and Research Design | RES613
  • Preliminary Research Thesis | RES614
  • Research Communication | RES615
  • Leading Research Innovation and Commercialisation | RES616

Select one

Choose one of these Core subjects.

  • Biostatistics | STAT6200
  • Statistics for Financial Decisions | STAT6003
  • Statistics and Applied Analytics | STA601

Select one

Choose one of these Core subjects.

  • Qualitative Research Methods for Public Health | PUBH6013
  • Qualitative Research Methods | RES617

Elective subjects

  • Research and Innovation | DSGN6029
  • User Research | DSG407
  • Mathematical Foundations of Artificial Intelligence | MFA501
  • Machine Principles | MLN601
  • Deep Learning | DLE602
  • Design Futures | DSGN6028
  • Social, Behavioural and Cultural Factors in Public Health | PUBH6000
  • Global and Environmental Health Issues | PUBH6002
  • Health Systems and Economics | PUBH6003
  • Epidemiology | PUBH6005
  • Health Policy and Advocacy | PUBH6001
  • Design Thinking | DTH501
  • Dynamic Leadership | MGT601
  • Business Decision Analytics | MGT602
  • Economic Principles and Decision Making | ECON6000
  • Systems Thinking | MGT603
  • Business Law and International Contexts | MGT608
  • Risk Management | MGT612
  • Corporate Sustainability | MGT613
  • Technology Strategy | MGT614
  • Principles of Project Management | PROJ6000
  • Business Process Management and Systems | PROJ6009
  • Managing Information Systems/Technology Projects | PROJ6012
  • Foundations of Information Systems | MIS500
  • Social Enterprise | DSGN6031
  • Foundations in Business Analysis | BANASD600
  • Visual Analytics and Storytelling | BANASD602 
  • Organisational Best Practice | MGT610
  • Strategic Management | MGT604

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

Study pathways

Torrens University offers undergraduate and postgraduate students with flexible entry options and study pathways. Whether you prefer a full program or a modular approach, we can tailor your studies to your needs. Start your journey with an undergraduate diploma or bachelor degree, or grow your career with a postgraduate qualification.

Need more help?

Let us customise a study plan and pathway for you.

Postgraduate

  • Graduate Certificate courses ( 2 options )
  • Master of Research Studies
    8 core subjects
    On campus | Online | Blended
    2 years full time, 4 years part-time

Higher Degrees by Research

  • Higher Degree by Research ( 2 options )
    • Master of Philosophy
      View course
    • Professional Doctorate Research
      View course

      *Students must meet the eligibility requirements of a higher award for entry
      *Students who meet eligibility can apply for the Doctor of Philosophy

Description of image

Research project

The Master of Research Studies comprises independent research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, culminating in the submission of a preliminary research thesis. As part of your studies, you will complete eight general electives where you can tailor your research to the Fields of Education and Fields of Research of interest. This could be in the realm of Machine Learning, Corporate Sustainability, Systems Thinking, Artificial Intelligence or Public Health amongst others.

Entry details

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

We're serious about supporting your studies from start to success, which is why we offer partial scholarships for both international and domestic students undertaking HDR. Please discuss these options with international and domestic admissions on application. For more information, please email HDR@torrens.edu.au

Admission criteria

Before you get started with your course application, check you meet all the requirements listed below.

AQF Level 7 (Bachelor degree) or above from an Australian University, or equivalent
OR
A completed coursework masters
OR
A minimum of five years relevant professional experience AND Graduate Certificate;
OR
Graduate Certificate of Research Studies

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as an international student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

AQF Level 7 (Bachelor degree) or above from an Australian University, or equivalent
OR
A completed coursework masters
OR
A minimum of five years relevant professional experience AND Graduate Certificate;
OR
Graduate Certificate of Research Studies

Academic IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent.

OR alternative entry requirement may be available. Alternative entry may include assessment and approval of prior study, or successful completion of a readiness assessment. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a Higher Degree by Research (HDR)?
  • What is the application process?
  • What is required in a Higher Degree by Research?
  • What is the time commitment for a Higher Degree by Research?

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