哲学硕士旨在将知识扩展到本科荣誉学位或研究生文凭级别之外，最终形成研究论文。完成研究学位的硕士学位后，您可以申请被考虑加入哲学博士学位（PhD）计划。更高的研究学位与其他研究生学位不同，因为至少三分之二的学习计划必须涉及研究。尽管可能需要一些课程单元，但您的工作的主要部分将是在主管和副主管的指导下撰写论文的形式。考官认为，您的论文必须是通过发现新事实，制定理论或对已知数据和既定思想进行创新性解释而对任何领域的知识或理解做出的实质性原始贡献。它还必须证明您具有构想，设计和完成独立研究的能力。
The Master of Philosophy aims to expand knowledge beyond the undergraduate honours or postgraduate diploma level, culminating in a research thesis. Upon completion of a master by research degree, you may apply to be considered for entry into a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program.<br><br>A higher degree by research differs from other postgraduate degrees in that at least two-thirds of the study program must involve research. Although some coursework units may be required, the main part of your work will be in the form of a thesis written under the guidance of a supervisor and associate supervisor(s). Your thesis must, in the opinion of the examiners, be a substantial original contribution to the knowledge or understanding of any field through the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative reinterpretation of known data and established ideas. It must also demonstrate your capacity to conceive, design and complete independent research.