Check specific Research Areas for eligibility and entry requirements
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The Australian National University provides Master of Philosophy students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support. The Crawford MPhil program comprises offerings from three of the School's Departments: the Arndt-Corden Department of Economics (ACDE), the Department of Policy and Governance (POGO) and the Resources, Environment and Development (RE&D) Department, and also from the National Security College (NSC).
The degree equips individuals with the skills needed to research, investigate, and develop new knowledge in applied economics, public policy, public administration, or resources, environment and development. As an MPhil student 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. Students should aim to start their degree at the start of the calendar year.
Applications
Applications are welcomed at any time during the year and, consistent with the practices of top global public policy schools, Crawford’s applications are assessed for admission by its HDR Admissions Committee throughout the year. Note, however, that deadlines apply if candidates also want to be considered for a research scholarship. In this case, completed applications must be received by ANU as early as possible before the closing dates.
Early submission enables more time to vet applications for completeness and improvements prior to the committee’s formal assessment and allows sufficient time for referees to be contacted to provide their reports. Completed applications include addressing all questions in the ANU application form and uploading all supporting documentation. Importantly, applications must include written confirmation from a primary supervisor and a second supervisor stating their willingness to supervise the applicant. If an application is incomplete beyond the deadline set by Crawford, then the application is invalid and will not receive an outcome.
Crawford requires successful applicants to enrol at the start of the calendar year, prior to Orientation Week in February, in time to undertake compulsory coursework.
Admission to the Program
Recommendations for course admission and HDR scholarships will be based on evaluation across multiple criteria, including the following:
- Ability (e.g. past and potential academic performance)
- Quality (e.g. proposal)
- Capacity (e.g. fit with supervisors, program and school)
All successful applicants will be required to undertake compulsory coursework.
One requirement is CRWF8900 Fostering Public Policy Research (0 units), to be taken in the start of the program study. More information about the admissions criteria and other required compulsory coursework is available through the links below.
Expression of interest
Candidates interested in undertaking MPhil study should send an Expression of Interest (EOI) to two academic staff members at Crawford School who they have identified as possible supervisors for their MPhil project (See individual MPhil offerings for specific requirements).
Information in your Expression of Interest should include: · A proposed thesis topic (be as specific as you can) of relevance to your study topic; · A preliminary thesis proposal of up to 8 pages in length; · The name of two potential supervisors at Crawford School in the same program and research field;
- A copy of your academic transcript(s);
- A CV including evidence of any work experience;
- A sample of your academic writing (published or unpublished);
- A statement on whether your ability to undertake MPhil study is dependent on being awarded a scholarship; and
- The time frame you envisage for commencing and completing your MPhil study at ANU
Your preliminary thesis proposal should address the following questions:
- What is your broad area of research?
- What are your preliminary research questions?
- What is the relevant literature? (provide a brief review)
- What analytical framework or approach will you take?
- What methods will you use?
- What do you anticipate will be the contribution of your research?
After the potential academic supervisor receives your Expression of Interest, they may invite you to a meeting to discuss your proposal.
Once a supervisor has interviewed you and signed off on your proposal, you may then submit an online application. Your application will be assessed within four to six weeks and you will be notified of the outcome.
Email cap.hdr@anu.edu.au if you have questions about this process or want feedback on the status of your application’s progress.
Scholarships and Fees
Costs associated with your study at ANU will depend on several things, including your study program and whether you are a domestic or international student. Find out more about costs and fees associated with studying at ANU. Please see details about ANU University Research Scholarships for which fully completed applications must be received by following dates:
| Scholarship round |
Date |
Commencement Year |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 International | Closing 31 August each year | The following year by the 31st March |
| Round 1 Domestic | Closing 31 October each year | The following year by the 31st March |
| Round 2 (International and Domestic) | Closing 15 April each year | The same year by the 31st of August |