Master of Philosophy (Social Work) (CRICOS course code 011015B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years (104 weeks). This research-focused program allows international students to conduct original, supervised research in social work, contributing to the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality teaching, student support, and ESOS Act protections. UoN delivers the program at its Callaghan and Central Coast campuses in New South Wales. This page covers indicative tuition fees, entry requirements, student visa conditions, and the step-by-step application process for prospective international students.
Master of Philosophy (Social Work) (CRICOS 011015B) is a research degree at AQF Level 9, offered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) (CRICOS provider 00109J). The program is classified under Field of Education 090501 – Social Work, part of the Society and Culture broad field. Students engage in independent research under academic supervision, culminating in a thesis. The course is delivered in English over two years full-time (104 weeks) and does not have a work component or foundation studies component. It is a single qualification, not a dual award. UoN is a public university with a strong reputation in social work research and teaching. International students benefit from UoN's dedicated support services and the legal protections of the ESOS Act.
The Master of Philosophy (Social Work) focuses on advanced research skills within the discipline of social work. Students typically develop expertise in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data analysis, and academic writing. The program encourages critical analysis of social welfare policies, practices, and theories. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, policy development, community services, or further doctoral study. The specific research topics depend on the student's interests and the supervision available at UoN. As a research degree, there is no prescribed coursework; instead, students work closely with their supervisor to produce a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field of social work.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Social Work) has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The course is delivered full-time in English. There are no part-time or online options listed for international students. It is a single qualification, not a combined or dual degree. The program does not include a mandatory work component. Students are expected to be on campus for supervision and research activities. UoN's academic year typically consists of two semesters, and students may be required to commence in either Semester 1 or Semester 2 depending on availability.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Philosophy (Social Work) is A$79,055 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$79,820. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Important: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge are NOT included. For current fees, always check The University of Newcastle's official website at www.newcastle.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs: average weekly rent in Newcastle is around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$60.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Social Work) are set by The University of Newcastle. Generally, applicants need a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in social work or a related field, with a strong academic record. Research experience and a clear research proposal may be required. English language proficiency: typical IELTS overall band of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) is expected, though requirements vary by provider. Some programs may accept IELTS 5.5 for pathway courses, but for this research degree, higher scores are likely. International students should check UoN's website for detailed criteria. If you do not meet direct entry, pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate may be available – contact the provider. Foundation studies are not applicable at this level.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at two campuses of The University of Newcastle: 1) The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) – located in CALLAGHAN, NSW, approximately 12 km from Newcastle city centre. 2) The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) – located in Ourimbah, NSW, about 20 km north of Gosford. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Newcastle is a major regional city with a growing international student population. It offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, with average rent around A$250–A$400 per week. The Central Coast campus serves students in the Ourimbah area, a suburban region with affordable living options.
International students enrolling in CRICOS-registered courses like this one must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living expenses, OSHC, travel), and valid English test scores. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to conditions). Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire visa duration. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at The University of Newcastle: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and institutions. Filter by course level, field, and location to confirm this program matches your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – visit UoN's website to review entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, submit transcripts, and provide English test results. Check application deadlines for your preferred intake. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once UoN issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
New South Wales (NSW) hosts over 200,000 international students across 1,500+ CRICOS-registered providers. Newcastle, where UoN's main campus is located, offers a vibrant student community, beautiful beaches, and lower living costs than Sydney. The Central Coast campus provides a quieter suburban environment. Both locations offer excellent public transport to campus and nearby cities. Consider your preferences for city size, climate, and lifestyle. NSW also has strong job markets in social work and related fields. Use HeadStart Academy's state guides to explore more.
Ready to apply? Start by researching similar CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy, then contact The University of Newcastle for application details.
Master of Philosophy (Social Work) 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.