Master of Science (CRICOS course code 026640J) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This research-focused program is designed for international students who want to deepen their expertise in natural and physical sciences through independent investigation and a thesis. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01595D), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students and qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) offers this degree at five Queensland campuses: Caboolture, Hervey Bay, Gympie, Petrie, and Sippy Downs. With indicative tuition of AU$65,000 and no compulsory work component, this program is ideal for students seeking a pure research pathway. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) as a free resource — no commission, no referral fees. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and the ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. Please note: course fees are indicative and subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
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Master of Science (CRICOS code 026640J) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, offered by the University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D). It belongs to the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01, narrow field 0100), encompassing disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. As a research master’s, students typically complete a supervised research project and submit a thesis, developing advanced skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking. The course is designed to prepare graduates for further research (PhD) or careers in academia, government, or industry. Australia’s CRICOS register lists over 26,000 courses across 1,556 providers — this course appears as a single, standalone program (no dual qualification or foundation studies). The language of instruction is English, and there is no mandatory work component. This page is a trusted guide based on official CRICOS data as at 1 April 2026, updated regularly by HeadStart Academy. Always verify current details with the University of the Sunshine Coast or through the CRICOS website (cricos.teqsa.gov.au).
As a research master’s in natural and physical sciences, you will engage in original investigation under the supervision of academic experts. The program typically involves coursework in research methods and ethics, followed by a substantial thesis. Graduates demonstrate the ability to design experiments, analyse complex data, and communicate scientific findings. Specialisations may include marine science, ecology, biotechnology, or physics, depending on the supervisor’s expertise. While the CRICOS register does not detail specific subjects, the level (AQF 9) requires systematic and critical understanding of a complex field. This degree is distinct from a coursework master’s — it emphasises independent research. For precise research areas, contact the School of Science, Technology and Engineering at UniSC. HeadStart Academy does not specify curriculum; we recommend you visit the provider’s website for detailed study plans. Remember: all courses here are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality standards under the ESOS Act.
The Master of Science is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks. This is the standard full-time duration for a research master’s in Australia. The language of instruction is English. The course is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, as required for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Part-time options may be available but can affect visa conditions — check with the provider. The CRICOS duration is a minimum; actual completion time may vary depending on research progress. The program is delivered across five UniSC campuses in Queensland, offering flexibility in location. For international students, maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course is essential for visa compliance. The ESOS Act ensures you receive the course as described. HeadStart Academy advises confirming study mode and attendance requirements directly with University of the Sunshine Coast.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Science is AU$65,000, with non-tuition fees listed as AU$0, giving an estimated total of AU$65,000. This figure is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and is set by the provider. Fees are subject to change — always check with University of the Sunshine Coast for current amounts. Important: this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and typically costs AU$500–AU$1,000 per year for single cover. Living costs in Queensland vary by city: for example, shared accommodation near the Sunshine Coast campus may cost AU$200–AU$350 per week, with groceries around AU$70–AU$150 per week and public transport AU$30–AU$60 per week. The Department of Home Affairs recommends at least AU$24,505 per year for living costs (as of 2026). HeadStart Academy provides indicative fee data for guidance only — we are not a financial advisor. Always budget for additional expenses and consult the provider’s website for the official fee schedule.
Entry into a Master of Science (Research) typically requires a Bachelor’s degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a Master’s degree by coursework with a significant research component. Applicants usually need a minimum grade point average (e.g., credit average) and a research proposal aligned with the supervisor’s expertise. English language proficiency is required — common tests include IELTS Academic with an overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band less than 6.0), TOEFL iBT 85–100, or PTE Academic 58–65. Requirements vary by provider; for University of the Sunshine Coast, the standard is often IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 in each band. Some students may need to complete a pathway program (e.g., a graduate certificate) if they lack the research background — check with the provider. Foundation studies are not part of this course. Applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria for their student visa. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for immigration advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course has no mandatory work component, as recorded on the CRICOS register. The Master of Science is a pure research degree without a built-in internship, practicum, or work placement. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work can help with living costs and gaining Australian experience, but it must not compromise your study obligations. HeadStart Academy reminds you that work rights are subject to visa conditions — always check with the Department of Home Affairs. Additionally, some research students may receive scholarships or stipends that involve teaching or research assistant duties, but these are not part of the CRICOS course. For current work opportunities, contact UniSC’s career services.
The Master of Science is delivered at five University of the Sunshine Coast campuses across Queensland: UniSC Caboolture (Caboolture), UniSC Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay), UniSC Gympie (Gympie), UniSC Moreton Bay (Petrie), and UniSC Sunshine Coast (Sippy Downs). Each campus is located in a regional or peri-urban area with distinct student lifestyles. Caboolture is a growing satellite city about 50 km north of Brisbane, with public trains to the CBD. Hervey Bay is a coastal city known for whale watching, around 3 hours north of Brisbane; it has a small student population and affordable living (weekly rent ~AU$250–AU$350). Gympie is an inland heritage town with lower costs (rent ~AU$200–AU$300). Petrie is part of the Moreton Bay region, 30 km north of Brisbane, with good train access. Sippy Downs is the main Sunshine Coast campus, near the beach and with a vibrant student community; rent can be AU$300–AU$450 weekly. Queensland is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in these areas are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport to all campuses is available via Queensland’s TransLink network. Consider your preference for urban vs. coastal living when choosing a location.
To study the Master of Science, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course — which this course is — and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. You must also have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, and provide evidence of English proficiency. As of 2026, the visa application charge is approximately AU$710. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants (if included) may also have work rights after you commence studies. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not exceeding work limits. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and ensures course quality. HeadStart Academy strongly advises reviewing the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest requirements and consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. We do not provide immigration advice.
Queensland offers a unique study experience with its warm climate, diverse landscapes, and lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The state has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including research-intensive universities like UniSC, the University of Queensland, and Griffith. For a research master’s in natural sciences, Queensland provides access to unique ecosystems (Great Barrier Reef, rainforests) and research facilities. Student populations in regional areas like Hervey Bay and Gympie are smaller, fostering close-knit communities, while Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay offer a balance of beach lifestyle and academic focus. Typical weekly living costs in regional Queensland are AU$300–AU$500 for rent, groceries, and transport. Before choosing Queensland, consider your research interests: does a supervisor align with your project? Also evaluate climate preferences (subtropical to tropical) and proximity to family or support networks. HeadStart Academy provides data from the CRICOS register to help you make informed decisions. Remember: this is a research degree — ensure you have a clear research proposal and potential supervisor before applying.
Ready to advance your research career? HeadStart Academy helps you navigate CRICOS-registered courses in Australia. Explore more research degrees or contact us for guidance.
Master of Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.