Master of Arts (Humanities & Social Sciences) (By Research) (CRICOS course code 002093G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 2 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in society and culture, with a focus on critical inquiry and independent research. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00115M), it meets the requirements for international student visas under the Australian Government's Framework. La Trobe University is a public research university with campuses across Victoria, offering students access to world-class libraries, laboratories, and supervision from leading academics. This page provides essential information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and how to apply, based on data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All figures are indicative and subject to change by the institution.
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The Master of Arts (Humanities & Social Sciences) (By Research) (CRICOS 002093G) is a Level 9 Masters Degree (Research) within the field of education 090000 — Society and Culture, n.f.d. It is offered by La Trobe University (CRICOS 00115M), a government-funded university based in Victoria. The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study, conducted in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. This course is classified as a research degree, meaning students will complete a substantial thesis under supervision. As a CRICOS-registered program, international students can enrol and are covered by the ESOS Act protections. La Trobe University has been educating international students for decades and provides dedicated support services for overseas enrolments.
As a research degree in society and culture, this course prepares graduates to conduct independent research in areas such as sociology, history, anthropology, political science, cultural studies, and related interdisciplinary fields. Students will develop advanced skills in research design, qualitative and quantitative methodologies, critical analysis, and academic writing. The program typically culminates in a thesis of up to 50,000 words that makes an original contribution to knowledge. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, research institutes, government policy, non-governmental organisations, and private sector roles requiring high-level analytical and communication skills. Note that specific coursework subjects, if any, are determined by the supervising department; students should consult La Trobe's course page for detailed curriculum information.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (non-dual) and is not a VET course (no national code). While the standard mode is on-campus research, some flexibility may be available; confirm with La Trobe University. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course does not include a mandatory work component.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for the Master of Arts (Humanities & Social Sciences) (By Research) is A$74,800. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$74,800. These fees are set by La Trobe University and are subject to change. IMPORTANT: This estimate does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–A$600 per year for single cover), living costs (around A$21,041 per year for a single student as per Department of Home Affairs 2025 figures), and the visa application fee (A$1,600 as of 2025). Always check the latest fees directly on La Trobe University's website: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international.
Entry requirements for research master's degrees typically include a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master's degree (Level 9) in a related field, with a strong academic record (e.g., GPA equivalent to 5.0/7.0 or higher). Applicants must also demonstrate research capability, often through a research proposal or previous thesis work. English language requirements vary by provider and course level; for this program, the expected IELTS range is 6.5–7.0 overall with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent, e.g., TOEFL iBT 79+). La Trobe University may accept other English tests or prior study in English. Some applicants may be eligible for pathway programs such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma, but this course does not include integrated foundation studies. Always confirm exact requirements with La Trobe before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. While the course itself does not offer a placement, La Trobe University's Career Services can assist with finding part-time work or internships. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not compromise study progress.
The Master of Arts (Humanities & Social Sciences) (By Research) is offered at five La Trobe University campuses across Victoria: Albury-Wodonga Campus (Wodonga, VIC), Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill, VIC), Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (Bundoora, VIC), Mildura Campus (Mildura, VIC), and Shepparton Campus (Shepparton, VIC). Each location provides access to research facilities and supervision. The Bundoora campus is the largest and closest to Melbourne's CBD (about 15 km north), with tram and bus connections. Regional campuses offer lower living costs; for example, weekly rent in Bendigo is around A$200–A$300 compared to A$350–A$500 in Melbourne. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers operate across Australia, and Victoria alone has more than 300 institutions offering thousands of courses. Choosing a campus location depends on your research interests, lifestyle preferences, and budget.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa; La Trobe may offer OSHC through approved providers. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Upon course completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply as an international student: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters by Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (Victoria). Confirm that La Trobe University (CRICOS 00115M) is registered to deliver this course. 2) Apply directly to La Trobe University — prepare academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and referee reports. Check entry requirements and application deadlines on the university website. Some intakes may be available for February and July. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, the university issues a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application online via ImmiAccount. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. For detailed visa steps, see our guide: /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Ready to apply? Research CRICOS-registered courses and providers on HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to La Trobe University. For visa guidance, consult our student visa resources.
Master of Arts (Humanities & Social Sciences) (By Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.