Master of Philosophy (Laws) (CRICOS course code 011014C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research-intensive program falls under the field of Society and Culture (0909 Law) and is designed for graduates seeking to pursue advanced legal scholarship. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Newcastle, NSW, offers a vibrant student community with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The University of Newcastle is a government-owned institution renowned for its research output and supportive environment for international students.
Master of Philosophy (Laws) (CRICOS course code 011014C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. As a postgraduate research degree, students undertake a significant independent research project culminating in a thesis. The field of education is Society and Culture (0909 Law), which covers legal theory, jurisprudence, and specialised areas of law. Graduates typically develop advanced analytical, critical thinking, and research skills applicable to academic, policy, or legal practice roles. This course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student studying in Australia.
The Master of Philosophy (Laws) is a 2-year full-time research program (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; no dual degree or foundation studies are offered. Students are expected to engage in supervised research, with regular milestones and a final thesis examination. The academic year typically includes two semesters, though research students may have flexible start dates. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration and mode are formally approved by the Australian Government.
Tuition fees for Master of Philosophy (Laws) are indicative at A$79,055 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) amount to A$765, giving an estimated total of A$79,820. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. These additional expenses can vary: OSHC is approximately A$500–A$700 per year, living costs in Newcastle are around A$20,000–A$25,000 annually, and the student visa application fee is currently A$1,600. For the most current fees, always check The University of Newcastle's official website (www.newcastle.edu.au). Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. This data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this research degree, a higher level (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or 7.0) is usually expected. Prior qualifications: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field, often with a research component. The University of Newcastle may also consider professional experience. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level; consult the provider for specific prerequisites. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission; always verify with The University of Newcastle directly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students may still work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Work rights are a valuable benefit, but the program itself is purely academic research.
This course is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City) in Newcastle, NSW. Newcastle is a coastal city with a population of over 500,000, home to a large student community. It offers a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a shared room is A$200–A$350, groceries A$70–A$100, and public transport via buses and light rail is accessible. The city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers (over 20 in the greater Newcastle region). Studying here gives you access to beaches, a vibrant cultural scene, and a supportive environment for international students.
To study Master of Philosophy (Laws) in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All conditions are subject to Department of Home Affairs policies. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (Newcastle) to confirm the course fits your goals. 2. Apply directly to The University of Newcastle – Meet entry requirements (qualifications, English test scores, research proposal) and submit your application by the deadline. The university may also require referee reports. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have health cover and sufficient funds.
Newcastle offers a balanced student lifestyle with strong academic resources, lower living costs, and easy access to Sydney (2 hours by train). With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, you can find a range of courses. The University of Newcastle is a leading research institution, especially strong in law, health, and engineering. Consider your preferences: if you enjoy a smaller city with a strong community feel and affordable living, Newcastle is an excellent choice. For those seeking a bustling metropolis, Sydney or Melbourne may be alternatives. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses across all Australian states and territories.
Explore more Masters Degree (Research) courses in NSW or check the full list of 26,433 CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Philosophy (Laws) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). 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.