Thrust bearings are generally designed to support the axial thrust force generated from rotating machinery. Therefore, the study of the load performances of thrust bearings is important in engineering applications. The aim of the present paper is to investigate the combined effects of ferrofluids and external magnetic fields on the load performance of a sine film thrust bearing. The results of the film pressure and the load capacity are discussed through the variation of the volume concentration parameter and the magnetic parameter. The results of the present study provide useful references for bearing design and engineering applications.