Curtin University

What you'll study

The MPhil (Computing) is predominantly a thesis‑based degree in which the core requirement is the completion of an independent research project under academic supervision. Candidates typically work on an extended research topic drawn from areas such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, data science and analytics, cybersecurity, human‑computer interaction, distributed and cloud computing, software engineering, and networks and communications.

Structure and key components:

• Research thesis — the major component of the degree is an original research thesis of specified length that demonstrates a candidate's ability to conduct independent research and present findings in a scholarly manner.
• Supervision — each candidate is assigned a supervisory team consisting of a principal supervisor and one or more co‑supervisors drawn from academic staff with relevant expertise.
• Research training — candidates undertake research training and professional development activities such as research methodology, ethics, academic writing and presentation skills. Some universities also require or offer short coursework units or seminars relevant to the research topic.
• Progress milestones — progression normally includes formal milestones such as a research proposal, confirmation of candidature, periodic progress reviews, and a final examination which may include an oral defence (viva voce) or external examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a relevant undergraduate honours degree with a research component, or a postgraduate qualification with substantial research experience, from a recognised institution. Typical expectations include:

• A bachelor's honours degree (first or upper second class) in computing, information technology, computer science or a closely related discipline, or a coursework master’s with a significant research component.
• A clear research proposal or statement of research interests aligned with available supervisors and project areas within the School.
• Evidence of research potential, such as previous research experience, publications, project reports or strong academic references.
• Satisfactory English language proficiency — applicants whose prior study was not in English will be required to meet Curtin's English language entry standards (for example, recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent scores).

Admission is competitive and each application is assessed on academic merit, research fit with supervisory expertise, and available supervision and resources.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MPhil (Computing) follow a range of career pathways that draw on advanced research skills and deep technical knowledge. Common directions include:

• Continuation to doctoral study (PhD) for those pursuing an academic or research career.
• Research and development roles in industry, such as applied research scientist, data scientist, machine learning engineer, or cybersecurity researcher.
• Specialist technical roles in software engineering, systems architecture, cloud and infrastructure engineering, or human‑centred design that require a high degree of analytical and investigative capability.
• Research management, consultancy or policy roles where the ability to design, run and interpret research projects is valued.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin's computing and IT programmes are delivered by academic staff active in research across contemporary computing disciplines, offering access to experienced supervisors and research networks. The university provides research candidates with dedicated facilities and computing resources, opportunities for collaboration with industry partners, and professional development programs to support research skills and career readiness.

For students seeking a research degree with clear pathways to higher research degrees or research‑intensive careers in industry, the MPhil (Computing) at Curtin offers a focused environment to develop a substantial piece of original work under expert supervision.