Master of Criminology (Research) at The University of Sydney

Master of Criminology (Research) (CRICOS 016238B) at The University of Sydney

Master of Criminology (Research) (CRICOS course code 016238B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This research-intensive program, classified under Society and Culture (090905 - Criminal Law), is designed for graduates seeking advanced expertise in criminological theory, research methods, and criminal justice systems. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00026A), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With an indicative tuition of A$118,600, this program offers a pathway to roles in policy, academia, or forensic practice. The University of Sydney, a Group of Eight institution, provides access to world-class libraries, research centres, and a vibrant international student community in Sydney—a city with over 800 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse multicultural environment. Whether you aim to contribute to criminal law reform or pursue a PhD, this degree equips you with analytical skills and subject expertise. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered; data sourced from the official register (April 2026) ensures accuracy. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource—no commissions, no referral fees—covering 26,433 courses across all study levels.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
Free resource — no commission, no referral fees
Covers 26,433 courses across all study levels and states

Course Overview

Master of Criminology (Research) (CRICOS course code 016238B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program is offered by a Group of Eight university with a strong reputation in social sciences. The course is classified under Field of Education 090905 - Criminal Law, focusing on the study of crime causes, prevention, and justice systems. As a research degree, it requires students to complete a substantial thesis under supervision, contributing to original knowledge in criminology. The University of Sydney, CRICOS 00026A, is a government-funded institution with a campus in Camperdown and a CBD location at 133 Castlereagh Street. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality standards and tuition safeguards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this program stands out for its research focus and the university's global ranking. For prospective students, understanding CRICOS registration is key: only registered providers can enrol international students. HeadStart Academy's data, drawn from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, confirms this course's validity.

What You'll Study

This Masters Degree (Research) in Criminology immerses students in advanced criminological theory, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and comparative criminal justice. While specific curriculum details are set by The University of Sydney, graduates at this level typically develop skills in critical analysis, data interpretation, and policy evaluation. The program explores topics such as crime prevention, offender behaviour, victimology, and the intersection of law and society. Students are expected to design and execute a research project—often a thesis of 30,000–40,000 words—under expert supervision. This prepares graduates for roles in government agencies, research institutions, non-profits, or further PhD study. The field of education (090905 - Criminal Law) aligns with Australia's National Skills Commission priorities in legal and social services. As a research degree, it emphasises independent inquiry and scholarly contribution, distinct from coursework-only master's programs.

Duration and Study Mode

The Master of Criminology (Research) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years (104 weeks). This is a full-time research program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification component, and the course is not a foundation studies program. Students are expected to engage in supervised research, attend seminars, and meet regular milestones. The University of Sydney offers access to state-of-the-art libraries, online resources, and research networks. While the program is typically on-campus, candidates may access some digital resources. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions.

Fees (Indicative)

Indicative fees for Master of Criminology (Research) at The University of Sydney, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026): - Tuition fee: A$118,600 (total for 2 years) - Non-tuition fees: A$752 (including materials, student services, etc.) - Estimated total cost: A$119,352

These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For international students, OSHC is mandatory and typically costs A$500–A$700 per year. Living costs in Sydney average A$1,500–A$2,500 per month (rent, groceries, transport). Always confirm current fees with The University of Sydney, as amounts are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only; fees are not guaranteed.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for Master of Criminology (Research) at The University of Sydney vary by individual qualifications. Typically, applicants need a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a related field such as criminology, sociology, law, or psychology. The university assesses research experience and academic record. English language proficiency is required: while provider-specific, most Australian universities expect IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) for research degrees. Alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. For non-standard qualifications, foundation or pathway programs may be available; check the provider's website. International students should verify specific requirements with The University of Sydney. Remember, entry requirements are set by the institution and subject to change.

Work Component

No work component: This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Master of Criminology (Research) is a research degree focused on thesis completion, not professional placement. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work must not interfere with studies.

Delivery Locations

The Master of Criminology (Research) is delivered at two locations in Sydney, NSW: - Sydney, CBD Level 16, 17 and 18, 133 Castlereagh Street — Sydney, NSW - The University of Sydney — Camperdown, NSW

Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse population of over 5 million, including a large international student community. The CBD campus is in the heart of the financial district, close to public transport (trains, buses, light rail). The Camperdown main campus is a historic site with extensive facilities. Sydney has over 800 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities: indicative weekly rent for a studio apartment is A$400–A$600, groceries A$80–A$150, and transport A$40–A$60. Both campuses are well-connected via train, bus, and ferry.

Student Visa

To study Master of Criminology (Research) in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion: demonstrate genuine intent to study and return home - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): mandatory for health insurance during your stay - Financial capacity: show ability to cover tuition, living costs (A$24,505 per year for a single student, plus family) and travel - English proficiency: meet the provider's requirements (typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall)

Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. After course completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to Apply for Master of Criminology (Research) at The University of Sydney

Follow these three steps to secure your place: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (Sydney). Confirm The University of Sydney's CRICOS code (00026A) and course code (016238B). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines on the university's website. Prepare transcripts, research proposal, referee reports, and a CV. Submit your application online via The University of Sydney's admissions portal. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: After acceptance, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Meet GTE, financial, and health requirements. OSHC must be arranged before visa grant.

Is Sydney Right for Your Criminology Research?

Sydney offers a dynamic environment for criminology research, with access to courts, correctional facilities, and community justice programs. The city's cultural diversity provides rich contexts for comparative studies. Over 800 registered providers mean a strong academic community. However, consider the high cost of living: weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus averages A$500–A$700, groceries A$100–A$150, and a monthly Opal card A$200. Transport options are excellent, with trains, buses, and ferries linking suburbs to campuses. Sydney's climate is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers. For international students, the city has extensive support services, including orientation programs, academic mentoring, and social clubs. If you prefer a quieter, lower-cost environment, other Australian cities like Adelaide or Brisbane might suit. Evaluate your budget, lifestyle preferences, and research interests before deciding.

Start your application: visit The University of Sydney's official website for current fees, entry requirements, and to apply. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered criminology courses.

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Source-backed course facts

Master of Criminology (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Master of Criminology (Research)
CRICOS course code
016238B
Provider
The University of Sydney (00026A)
Course level
Masters Degree (Research)
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
104 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$118,600
Estimated total (indicative)
A$119,351.595
Delivery locations
Sydney, CAMPERDOWN
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative total tuition for Master of Criminology (Research) at The University of Sydney is A$118,600, with non-tuition fees of A$752, giving an estimated total of A$119,352. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by the institution; they do not include OSHC, living costs (approx. A$24,505/year), or visa application fees. Always confirm current fees with the university.
The CRICOS-registered duration is 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study. This is a research degree, typically requiring completion of a thesis. The program may be extended under certain circumstances, but the standard duration is as stated. Part-time study is not available for international students on a Student visa.
General entry requires a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a related field such as criminology, sociology, law, or psychology. Research experience or a strong academic record is essential. English proficiency is typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Specific requirements vary by provider; check The University of Sydney's website for exact criteria. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if needed.
The University of Sydney delivers this course from two locations: its main Camperdown campus and its Sydney CBD campus at 133 Castlereagh Street (Level 16-18). Both are in Sydney, NSW. The CBD location is near Central Station, while Camperdown is a short train or bus ride from the city centre. Students have access to libraries, research facilities, and student services at both sites.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$119,351.595 for Master of Criminology (Research) (tuition A$118,600). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of Sydney before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 016238B, offered by The University of Sydney (provider code 00026A). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.