Master of Science - Microbiology & Immunology - by research

What you'll study

This Masters by Research in Microbiology & Immunology falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (0109 Biological Sciences), specifically Microbiology (010911). Students engage in supervised independent research, culminating in a thesis. Typical research areas include bacterial and viral pathogenesis, immunology of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and molecular microbiology. Graduates develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and expertise in laboratory techniques applicable to academia, healthcare, and biotechnology. The program is delivered through UNSW's School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Duration and study mode

The course is listed on the CRICOS register as 2 years (104 weeks). It is a full-time research program conducted in English. This is a single qualification, meaning it does not lead to a dual award. The intensive research component requires students to work closely with a supervisor and meet regular milestones. UNSW also offers part-time options for domestic students, but international students are generally required to study full-time to comply with visa conditions.

Fees (indicative — set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW))

Indicative tuition fees for this course are A$121,000 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$2,000, covering student services and amenities. The estimated total is A$123,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please visit UNSW's official website for the most current fees. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. For a single student, OSHC may cost around A$600–700 per year, and living expenses in Sydney (rent, food, transport) are approximately A$25,000–30,000 per year according to the Department of Home Affairs.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

English language requirements vary by provider. For research degrees at UNSW, typically an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 with no band less than 6.0 is expected, though specific requirements may differ. Prior qualifications: applicants usually need a bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., microbiology, immunology, biology) with a strong research component. Equivalent research experience may also be considered. Some students may enter via a pathway program (e.g., Graduate Diploma) if they do not meet direct entry criteria — refer to UNSW for options. It is essential to check the exact entry requirements on the UNSW website before applying.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, such as an internship or placement. It is purely research-focused. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, which can help offset living costs.

Delivery locations

The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb 5 km southeast of Sydney's CBD, easily accessible by public transport (bus and light rail). The campus is part of a vibrant student community with over 60,000 students, including a large international cohort. Sydney offers a high cost of living, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around $300–$500, groceries $80–$150, and public transport $30–$50. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, reflecting its status as Australia's largest education hub.

Student visa

International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. As part of the application, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, meet English requirements, and show sufficient financial capacity. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act 2000, which ensures quality education and consumer rights for international students. For visa advice, always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Science - Microbiology & Immunology - by research at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level, field, and city on HeadStart Academy to find the right program. Confirm the course code 000999C. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Meet entry requirements, submit English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and prepare research proposals. Check UNSW's application deadlines. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once you have your CoE, apply for the visa online. Ensure you have OSHC and enough funds for tuition and living costs.

Is Sydney right for you?

Sydney is Australia's most populous city, with a thriving economy and diverse culture. It offers world-class research facilities and a high quality of life. However, the cost of living is higher than other Australian cities. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. The Kensington campus provides a supportive environment for international students, with dedicated services for accommodation, health, and career development. If you prefer a quieter or more affordable setting, other cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, or Adelaide may be alternatives. Explore HeadStart Academy's state guides to compare.

Ready to apply? Follow the 3-step guide above to start your journey at UNSW.

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