π Postgraduate Study in Australia
Australia is home to world-class research universities. Whether you're pursuing a Masters, PhD, or Graduate Diploma, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Types of Postgraduate Programs
Structured program with lectures, assignments, and sometimes a minor thesis. Most popular postgrad pathway.
Entry Requirements: Bachelor degree (credit average usually required)
Examples: MBA, Master of Data Science, Master of Teaching, Master of Public Health
Research-focused with a major thesis component. Good pathway to PhD.
Entry Requirements: Bachelor with Honours or equivalent research experience
Examples: Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Master of Science (Research), Master of Engineering (Research)
The highest academic degree. Original research contribution resulting in a thesis.
Entry Requirements: Masters degree or Bachelor with Honours (First Class/2A)
Examples: PhD in Computer Science, PhD in Medicine, PhD in Engineering, PhD in Business
Shorter than a Masters. Good for career change or pathway to Masters.
Entry Requirements: Bachelor degree in any field (some programs)
Examples: Graduate Diploma of Psychology, Graduate Diploma of Education, Graduate Diploma of Data Science
Quickest postgrad qualification. Often used for professional development.
Entry Requirements: Bachelor degree or equivalent work experience
Examples: Graduate Certificate in Business, Graduate Certificate in Project Management
Top Research Universities
| University | PhD Students | Research Income | |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 7,500+ | $900M+ | View β |
| University of Sydney | 5,500+ | $800M+ | View β |
| University of Queensland | 5,000+ | $700M+ | View β |
| Monash University | 5,800+ | $750M+ | View β |
| UNSW Sydney | 5,200+ | $700M+ | View β |
| Australian National University | 4,000+ | $500M+ | View β |
π° Research Training Program (RTP)
The Australian Government funds Research Training Program places at all universities. If you receive an RTP scholarship:
- Full tuition covered (domestic and some international students)
- Stipend of ~$32,192/yr (2025 rate, indexed annually)
- Duration: Up to 2 years for Masters, 3.5 years for PhD
- No teaching requirement (unlike US TA/RA positions)