Master of Science in Engineering - MSc (Eng)
A Master's or MSc programme entails a two-year period of postgraduate study in which the student is trained in research methodology. In this time, the student completes a research project in which they demonstrate a thorough understanding of the relevant literature and underlying scientific principles. The findings of the project are reported in a formal dissertation, which is submitted for examination at the end of the MSc.
Requirements
An appropriate four-year degree in the Faculty of Engineering or Science. For engineering students, a BSc(Eng) qualification is required, whereas Science students are required to have completed a BSc(Hons) degree.
Format
There are two MSc options available in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, namely:
- MSc by dissertation in which the student is required to produce a 180-credit dissertation for examination.
- MSc by coursework and dissertation in which the student is required to complete 60 credits' worth of coursework and produce a 120-credit dissertation for examination.
The topic for the dissertation is chosen by the student in consultation with their supervisor. In contrast to a PhD, it is not necessary for MSc research to constitute an original contribution to knowledge in the subject. The coursework component prepares students for advanced study in the area of interest, but can also expose students to broader research topics in areas related to their main area of interest.
Qualifications
A BISRU student may qualify with:
- MSc(Eng), if their previous qualification was a BSc(Eng).
- MSc(Appl. Sc), if their previous qualification was a BSc(Hons).
For more information, consult the EBE Postgraduate Handbook.
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD
A Doctor of Philosophy or PhD programme entails a three-year period of postgraduate study, in which the student performs original research, i.e. research that constitutes a novel contribution to knowledge in the subject. The research is reported in a formal thesis, which is submitted for examination at the end of the PhD.
Requirements
When considering an application from a prospective candidate, the University will be guided by the following as being the appropriate admission requirements:
- a recognised Master's degree; or
- a recognised Honour's Bachelor's degree or a recognised four-year Bachelor's degree plus at least one year's registration for an approved Master's degree; or
- a recognised three-year Bachelor's degree plus at least two years registration for an approved Master's degree; or
- in special circumstances, at the discretion of the Senate, an approved Bachelor's degree or qualification recognised by the Senate as an equivalent.
It is not essential that you undertake your Doctoral degree through the faculty in which you obtained your Bachelor's degree.
Note: Master's candidates may apply to upgrade their candidature to PhD candidature at any time before submitting the thesis for examination.
Format
A PhD candidate is required to present a formal proposal seminar in their department to an audience in which the Head of Department and the Supervisor must be present. This seminar must be based on a written research proposal which must be submitted to the Supervisor and Head of Department before the seminar is given. For more information on the proposal document and seminar, consult the PhD Proposal Guidelines.
Once a student's candidature has been approved by the Doctoral Degrees Board (DDB), they may commence their research. The research topic is chosen by the student in consultation with their supervisor and must constitute an original contribution to knowledge in the subject.
For more information, consult the Doctor of Philosophy section in the General Rules and Policies Handbook.