Master of Philosophy

Duration

2 years (full-time) or 4 years (part-time)

Type

Research

Intake

15 January, 1 May, 15 July, and 15 October (subject to availability of supervision). Flexibility may apply for students whose enrolment is supported by external funding.

Fees

In 2026, the annual tuition fees for this course are:

• RM48,480 for Malaysian students
• RM54,720 for international students.

General fees:

• Application (once only) - RM100
• Registration (once only) - RM200
• General amenities (per semester) - RM100
• International student pass application - Click here.

This course consists of a research and thesis component undertaken in any of the School of Pharmacy's research areas.

Course requirements
You must, in consultation with and under the direct supervision of a member/s of the academic staff:

• carry out a program of research on an agreed topic approved by the faculty in your chosen discipline for a specified period, including attending and/or presenting at seminars and other related activities as indicated by the faculty
• submit for assessment a thesis of not more than 20,000 words on the program of research which meets the requirements of the examiners. Submission of a thesis, including published works, may be permitted.

Research topics are available in the faculty's research themes, depending on supervision and resource availability.

Choose from a broad range of study areas, including but not limited to:

• Clinical pharmacy, pharmacy practice and pharmacy education
• Global health and health policy
• Drug discovery and development
• Drug delivery and nanomedicine
• Neuroscience and mental health
• Cardiovascular, metabolic and general health
• Medical biosciences
• Health economics.

Global recognition
Monash University is ranked #2 in the world for pharmacy and pharmacology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026).

International standards
We offer the same research program as our Parkville campus in Australia, ensuring consistently high education standards.

Hands-on learning
You'll develop specialised expertise and industry-relevant skills through practical research experience in modern laboratories.

Benefit from expert supervision
Our cohort of research-active academic staff brings a wealth of insight and experience from industry and professional practice. You’ll receive consistently excellent teaching and guidance for the best learning outcomes.

Advance your career
If you're a science graduate, this course provides a pathway to transition into research and development within the pharmacy and pharmaceutical industry, enhancing your competitive edge.

Continuing education
Whether you want to get ahead in your career faster or improve your knowledge, a Monash postgraduate degree offers lifelong learning opportunities for industry professionals to develop and enhance their skills.

Be supported
We're committed to supporting young scholars who want to change the world for the better. Click here to view our range of prestigious scholarships.

Entry requirements

To enter Monash University, you must satisfy particular academic, English language and age requirements.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training, qualifications and ability to pursue the proposed course of study. In all cases, the qualifications described below are expected to be equivalent to Australian Qualifications Framework levels and standards.

In considering applicants' qualifications from international institutions, the Graduate Research Committee (GRC) will consider a range of qualifications, publications, experience and demonstrated research capacity.


Standard entry

The minimum qualifications for admission into a Master’s by Research course are:

• A bachelor’s degree of at least four years in a relevant discipline, which includes a research thesis or project, with a minimum overall average grade of an honours degree equivalent to the Second Class Honours Division B with mark of 65 or above; or
• A master's degree in a relevant discipline which includes a research thesis or project equivalent to at least 25 percent of one year of full-time study, with a minimum overall average grade of an honours degree equivalent to the Second Class Honours Division B with mark of 65 or above; or
• A qualification, or combination of qualifications and relevant professional experience, deemed equivalent by the GRC (or delegate).

Please refer to the Admission criteria for more details.

Application process