Study Precision Instrumentation & Measurement at ANU
Technology is advancing more and more everyday, and this program will prepare you to be at the forefront of the technology revolution. Learn how technology works, how to advance it and how to measure it all. Be at the frontier of the development of new and more precise instrumentation with the Master of Science in Precision Instrumentation and Measurement from Australia's national university.
With a combination of contemporary and classic knowledge and techniques, you will be working across three research schools – Physics and Engineering, Earth Sciences and Astronomy and Astrophysics, giving you the flexibility to specialise in your area of interest.
ANU scientists have designed and developed instrumentation for the Nobel-prize winning discovery of gravitational waves, and this facility is just one of many that you will have access to during your studies.
Key facts
What you'll learn
Master of Science in Precision Instrumentation & Measurement
The Master of Science in Precision Instrumentation & Measurement is a mix of coursework and projects, both individual and group-based research. You can study topics such as noise and measurement, photonic sensing systems, electronics and data analysis, scientific computing, leadership and influence, unravelling complexity, innovation, and science public policy.
Through this program you will also develop a critical understanding of the role of science in society, a vital skill that will enable you to identify, communicate and respond to societal needs and global challenges.
Advanced program
The Advanced program provides you with the opportunity to extend your practical, coursework experience in precision instrumentation and measurement with the development and implementation of research projects supervised by an academic. You will be required to develop expertise in a nominated area through independent research and completion of a dissertation. It is particularly relevant to those who wish to benefit from the research strengths of ANU. A Master of Science (Advanced) in Precision Instrumentation and Measurement can also lead to a PhD.
What it's like to study Precision Instrumentation & Measurement
Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre
Access the $30-million AITC, a world-class facility for the assembly, integration and testing of space-based instruments and small satellites.
Mount Stromlo Observatory
Work in a world-respected community of researchers who have made major contributions to astronomy. Map the structure and formation of the Milky Way, discover planets orbiting other stars, and study dark matter in nearby galaxies.
Virtual tour
Explore ANU science places, classrooms, laboratories and more through our interactive virtual tour.
Meet some of your teachers

Dr Robert Ward
Robert's research is primarily on interferometry development for precision measurement related to gravitational wave detection, such as the development of squeezed light sources and low-frequency gravitational force sensors, as well as commissioning of the Advanced LIGO interferometers.

Professor Francois Rigaut
Francois leads adaptive optics (AO) activities at the ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, concentrating on two main projects: a Laser Tomography AO system for the Giant Magellan Telescope and an AO prototype for conditioning of laser beams used in space debris tracking, nudging and de-orbiting.
Precision Instrumentation & Measurement careers
Pursue a career at the forefront of precision instrumentation. A masters degree specialising in precision instrumentation and measurement provides you with the skills to develop the instrumentation technologies that underpin the advancement of science and industry. ANU has a strong pedigree in the development of new scientific instrumentation, and our graduates are highly sought-after and go on to find interesting careers in a range of areas. A Master's of Science (Advanced) in Precision Instrumentation and Measurement can also lead to a PhD.
The Australian National University has been ranked as the top university for graduate employability in Australia in the Global University Employability Ranking 2020. As a student at ANU, you gain access to the ANU CareerHub – an online career development and employability tool that includes a jobs board and careers resources. You also have access to drop-in chats with a career consultant and to attend our career fairs to meet potential employers.
For the next rendition of how A Star is Born, ANU is preparing an emu for spaceflight
Fees & scholarships
Tuition fees: Tuition fees
Scholarships: Scholarships
ANU offers many scholarships both to overcome disadvantage and to recognise academic merit.
Watch the webinar
How to apply
Understand the entry requirements
- Check domestic admission dates on the ANU Study website.
- Check admission requirements and deadlines for this degree on the Handbook website. Read the requirements carefully to make sure you understand them.
- You must also meet the University's English language admission requirements.
Gather supporting documents
If you graduated from an Australian university, UAC will be able to access your results in most cases. However, you may be asked to provide transcripts or other documentation, so it is a good idea to prepare your records just in case.
You can still apply before you complete your bachelor degree if you are in your final year, and you must advise UAC in your application. You may need to provide a copy of your academic transcript directly to UAC as soon as you complete your degree. UAC will provide instructions during the application process.
Submit an application
Start your application on the Universities Admissions Centre website.
Receive an offer
All offers are made through UAC and are released on a rolling basis. You can access your offers and correspondence by logging into your UAC account.
Accept your offer
Once you receive an offer it is very important that you accept it to ensure your place at ANU is reserved.
Understand the entry requirements
- Check international admission dates on the ANU Study website.
- Check admission requirements and deadlines for this degree on the Handbook website. Read the requirements carefully to make sure you understand them.
- You must also meet the University's English language admission requirements.
Prepare entry requirements & support documents
When you apply to ANU, you must be prepared to provide specific documents that we need to assess your application.
Submit your application
Start your application on the ANU Admissions website.
Receive an offer
There are three assessment rounds in each semester. Applying in the first round will give you three opportunities to be assessed and accepted, giving you the best chance of being offered a place at ANU.
Accept your offer
Accept the offer and enrol at ANU!
Need more information?
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