CourseMaster's Degree (Coursework)MSc

S6000 Master of Science

Faculty of Science

Master of Science (S6000) is a 2 years full-time, 96-credit-point, master's degree (coursework) course from the Faculty of Science, taught at Clayton. In 2026 you can choose from 4 specialisations. Map your units semester by semester with the MonMap planner.

Credit points
96
Duration
2 years full time
4 years part time
Campus
Clayton
On campus

This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.

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Requisite map

The 2026 handbook lists no units for S6000 itself. Pick an area of study to see its units.

Overview

The Master of Science is an advanced program for science graduates with an undergraduate degree in a cognate discipline. It is designed for two distinct groups of students: the professional scientists aiming to extend their industry-related knowledge and skills for career advancement, and those considering a research degree. In the first year of the course, you will complete advanced studies in your chosen field as well as a project in your chosen topic. In the second year of the course, you will complete further studies to deepen your knowledge in your chosen field. These studies will culminate in a capstone unit involving a project that is either aligned with the research strengths within the School, or which applies discipline domain knowledge to an industry context.

The Master of Science is available in the following disciplines:

  • Astrophysics
  • Atmospheric science
  • Earth science
  • Physics

Course structure

The handbook's description of this structure

The course comprises 96 points structured into four parts, Part A. Foundation Studies, Part B. Advanced Studies, Part C. Research Project or Work Integrated Learning, and Part D. Extended Studies.

Part A. Foundation studies

These studies consolidate your theoretical and/or technical knowledge in an area of specialisation and provide an introduction to research methodologies appropriate to your chosen discipline.

Part B. Advanced studies

These studies will deepen your understanding of specific topics and advanced elements within your chosen discipline. 

Part C. Research project or work integrated learning 

This part is designed to develop your ability to establish, plan and execute a research project or industry-relevant project under the guidance of an academic supervisor.

Part D. Extended studies

These studies will deepen your understanding of specific topics and advanced elements within your chosen discipline. 

Master's entry points

Depending on prior qualifications you may receive entry level credit (a form of block credit) which determines your point of entry to the course:

  • If you are admitted at entry level 1 you complete 96 credit points, comprising Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D.
  • If you are admitted at entry level 2 you complete 72 credit points, comprising Part B, Part C and Part D.
  • If you are admitted at entry level 3 you complete 48 credit points, comprising Part C and Part D.

Note: If you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit and complete one of the higher credit-point options.

Course progression map

The course progression map provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

The course comprises 96 points structured into four parts, Part A. Foundation studies (24 points), Part B. Advanced Studies (24 points), Part C. Research Project or Work Integrated Learning (24 points), and Part D. Extended Studies (24 points).

Units are 6 points unless otherwise stated.

You must complete one of the following postgraduate specialisations:

  • Astrophysics
  • Atmospheric science 
  • Earth science
  • Physics

Areas of study

Learning outcomes

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework and Monash Graduate Attributes.

Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that you will be able to:

  1. 1

    Demonstrate an advanced understanding of knowledge in a science discipline through the integration of theories, principles and concepts in the context of contemporary science practice and research

  2. 2

    Think critically, creatively, and reflectively to analyse complex problems and to generate innovative solutions which either extend discipline domain knowledge or integrates different fields of study

  3. 3

    Effectively communicate ideas and results to technical and non-technical audiences alike in a variety of formats in a professional context, and work productively within a team of experts in the field

  4. 4

    Work competently, independently and ethically in an interdisciplinary, academic and/or professional context.

Entry requirements

English language

Monash Level A, that is:  IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall (no band lower than 6.0); or Pearson Test of English (Academic): score of 58 overall with no band lower than 50; or TOEFL Internet-based test: score of 79 overall with minimum scores: Writing: 21, Listening: 12, Reading: 13 and Speaking: 18; or Equivalent approved English test

More information

Progression to further studies

Successful completion of this course may provide a pathway to a graduate research degree.

Other information

The Master of Science is an advanced program for science graduates with an undergraduate degree in a cognate discipline. It is designed for two distinct groups of students: the professional scientists aiming to extend their industry-related knowledge and skills for career advancement, and those considering a research degree. In the first year of the course, you will complete foundation studies and/or advanced studies in your chosen field as well as a project aligned with your research interests. In the second year of the course, you will complete further studies to deepen your knowledge in your chosen field. These studies will culminate in a capstone unit involving a project that is either aligned with the research strengths within the School, or which applies discipline domain knowledge to an industry context.

The Master of Science is available in the following disciplines:

  • Astrophysics
  • Atmospheric science
  • Earth science
  • Physics

Common questions

How long is Master of Science?

2 years full time, 96 credit points. At 24 credit points a semester, that is 4 semesters of full-time study.

What specialisations can I take in Master of Science?

4 specialisations in 2026, including Astrophysics, Atmospheric science, Earth science and Physics.

Where can I study Master of Science?

At Clayton.

How do I plan my Master of Science units?

Open the course in the MonMap planner. It lays out your semesters, checks prerequisites as you drag units in, and tracks the credit points each requirement still needs.

Course details

Qualification
Master's Degree (Coursework)
AQF level
Level 9
Credit points
96
Full time
2 Years
Part time
4 Years
Maximum time
6 years
Faculty
Faculty of Science
CRICOS code
096867K
Abbreviation
MSc
Award titles
Master of Science in PhysicsMaster of Science in Atmospheric ScienceMaster of Science in AstrophysicsMaster of Science in Earth Science