Course description
The masters degree is designed for students to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research in history, philosophy and sociology of science. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship in the area of research. Candidates may advance to the Doctor of Philosophy degree after successful completion of the masters or may apply to convert to the PhD at an earlier stage. An honours grade of at least H2B (70%) must be attained in order to qualify for the award of the masters degree.
Objectives:
Students who complete the masters will:
* receive an induction into the research culture of history and philosophy of science;
* make an original contribution to the research culture of history and philosophy of science.
Course Structure & Available Subjects:
Thesis 30,000 words (100 points per year)
Subject Options:
Subject
Study Period:
Credit Points:
136-502 (HPSC90001) Major Thesis - HPS
RHD First Half Year, RHD Second Half Year
N/A Credit points are not assigned to the research thesis subjects that are offered as part of graduate research courses.
The load or weight varies according to the duration and structure of the course, enrolment status (ie. full-time or part-time), etc.
Entry Requirements:
A four year BA (Honours) degree with a research component or equivalent in the appropriate area of study or closely related area. The grade for the honours thesis component must be at least equivalent to an H2A (75%) at the University of Melbourne and the overall honours result must be at least equivalent to an H2B (70%).
Applicants must include with their application a thesis proposal of 2,500 words and a writing sample (this may be an essay from your previous degree, a chapter from your Honours or Masters thesis or a published article). The primary basis for selection is academic merit, however, consideration will also be given to the quality of the thesis proposal, research potential, and the availability of an appropriate supervisor. Academic references may be required to assess the applicant's eligibility.
Note: The Master of Science by Thesis only is available to those who meet the Faculty of Science admission requirements. For information on the Master of Science in History and Philosophy of Science, contact The Faculty of Science.
