Master of Science Preliminary

Course code: 0054 + Course abbreviation: MScPrelim + Total credit points required: 48 + 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Study mode and course location

On-campus (Clayton; Gippsland; Malaysia)

External (Clayton; Gippsland)

Course description

This course combines research and coursework units and is intended primarily for graduates who do not meet the standard eligibility requirements for entry into the MSc degree. Candidates who successfully complete such studies and pass such examinations as prescribed by their school with results equivalent to H2A (70–79) or better will be eligible for future admission into the MSc, MPhil, or PhD program. Candidates who have completed the requirements of the course but not at the equivalent to H1 or H2A grade, or who are eligible to apply for the MSc, MPhil, or PhD programs but do not wish to do so, may apply to receive the Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PgradDipSc) exit award.

Course objectives

The MSc Preliminary is a course of study involving both coursework and research that is undertaken as preparation for admission to further studies at masters (or PhD) level.

Entry requirements

Recent graduates

New graduates with only a pass degree in a relevant field (and who have not attempted honours in that field) will require at least a credit grade average in relevant third-year units to the value of 50 per cent of third year. Applicants should note that the support of the school is also required and a credit grade average does not guarantee admission to the course.

Graduates with honours in a different field

For graduates with honours in a different field (not regarded as a suitable preparation for direct admission to their proposed graduate studies), or for applicants applying several years after graduation and whose subsequent training and experience is deemed inadequate for direct admission to the proposed graduate studies, or non-university graduates with a diploma or other qualifications, admission may be approved if they are judged to have sufficient aptitude for research in the proposed field and a suitable motivation towards relevant studies.

Other applicants

A strong case for admission must be made by the head of school to the dean where an applicant does not have the required credit grade average at third-year level. Such an application will only be considered where there are exceptional circumstances and relevant experience can be demonstrated.

Course structure

The MSc Preliminary will usually include a combination of coursework and research, and it is anticipated that the research component undertaken in this course will form the basis of the research thesis required under the MSc.

Assessment is by completion of coursework units and examination of a minor thesis.

Contact details

Further information can be obtained from the graduate studies website at www.sci.monash.edu.au/postgrad/ or from the Faculty of Science office by email at graduate.studies@sci.monash.edu.au.

Previous page | Next page | Section contents | Title and contents