The Master of Philosophy (BABS) is a postgraduate research degree that sits between a BSc and a PhD. It is designed to be completed over 1.5 to 2 years full-time equivalent (FTE) and includes three coursework subjects alongside a supervised research project conducted within the supervisor's research laboratory. The outcomes of the research project are documented in a thesis, which is examined and includes an oral examination.
This qualification allows students to experience modern and sophisticated laboratory techniques that apply to a wide range of biotechnology and molecular biology fields.
To allow greater flexibility to pursue a particular area of interest, course electives may be chosen (see options below), subject to the approval of the School Postgraduate Coordinator.
Program
How an MPhil (BABS) differs from Honours
The MPhil (BABS) may be considered as an alternative to an Honours year. The entry requirement for Honours or an MPhil (BABS) is the same, an overall WAM of 65 (credit) or higher. HECS is applicable to the Honours year, whereas MPhil (BABS) is classified as a research degree, so does not qualify for HECS.
| Honours | MPhil | |
| Purpose | Preferred pathway to a Higher Degree by Research (MSc by research or PhD). Intended for students just completing their undergraduate degree. | An alternative to Honours that is a standalone postgraduate degree in research training. Often taken by those returning to study and are interested in a research career or those wishing to develop expertise in an area different from their undergraduate degree. Also a pathway to a Higher Degree Research (PhD). |
| Entry requirements | A 65 (credit) average or higher in all stage 1-3 courses and stage 3 Science courses, in addition to approved supervision. | Bachelor degree in a relevant discipline from UNSW or an equivalent university; or a recent qualification from a tertiary institution at a level considered equivalent by the Faculty HDC, and approved supervision. |
| Duration | 1 year full time | 1.5 to 2 years full time |
| Offered part-time? | No | Yes, depending on project selected |
| Coursework involved? | No – 100% research | Yes, 18UOC of coursework is undertaken in the 1st year of candiature (research component approximately two-thirds of the program) |
| Fees |
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| Centrelink (domestic students only) | Eligible for Centrelink payments | Not eligible for Centrelink payments |
Research component
Research projects are the same as for Honours. Disciplines include process biotechnology, biocatalysis, environmental microbiology, bioremediation, biochemistry, antioxidants and ageing, biomolecular engineering, infection and immunity, bioinformatics and genomics, cancer biology, genetics, extremophiles and virology.
View the current BABS Honours Information Booklet and the BABS HDR Information Booklet for supervisors, projects and research areas.
Entry eligibility
- Please visit UNSW's Master of Philosophy website for details on Entry requirements
- Applicants must seek and obtain agreement of a BABS academic to be their supervisor prior to applying; this is a key requirement to gain acceptance. View the BABS Honours Information Booklet and the BABS HDR Information Booklet for supervisors, projects and research areas. Identifying and negotiating with prospective supervisors is key to gaining admission, and you will need to align your topic of interest with the research area of one of our School’s academics.
- Applicants must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission: English language requirements.
- Further information can be obtained from the Graduate Research School (GRS).
Coursework component
Students are required to complete three coursework subjects:
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- Relevant third-year courses can be chosen (with permission from PG coordinator and supervisor)
- Research Techniques (BABS7180)
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- Relevant postgraduate or third-year courses can be chosen (with permission from PG coordinator and supervisor)
- Applied Bioinformatics (BINF9010)
- Biocompatibility (BIOM9332)
- Cellular and Tissue Engineering (BIOM9333)
- Chemistry and Physics of Synthetic and Biological Polymers (BIOM9432)
- Water Treatment (CVEN9856)
- Advanced Food Chemistry (FOOD4110)
- Food Microbiology (FOOD8320)
- Nutrition (FOOD8220)
- Safety Risk Management: Physical Hazards (AVIA9201)
How to apply for an MPhil (BABS)
International students may consider the MPhil (BABS) as an alternative to Honours. This program includes advanced treatment of all areas of biotechnology. It can provide students with a strong qualification through emphasis on research training supplemented with a substantial coursework component. This combination includes laboratory experience with modern, sophisticated techniques and equipment that apply to a wide range of biotechnology and molecular biology fields.
Acceptance into the program is contingent upon satisfying UNSW admission/academic requirements and locating a supervisor within the School of BABS. Students are encouraged to approach team leaders at any time for further information about suitable research projects.
It is essential for you to have identified a BABS supervisor who has agreed to take you on as a student prior to applying. View the BABS Honours Information Booklet and the BABS HDR Information Booklet for supervisors, projects and research areas.
Applicants may view the application procedures on the GRS website.
View application deadlines.