Master of Arts (CRICOS course code 026642G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This program is designed for students seeking to deepen their expertise in society and culture through independent research. As part of Australia’s over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses, this degree offers a pathway to advanced academic or professional careers. University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D) is a government-funded institution with campuses in Queensland, including Petrie and Sippy Downs. With a focus on research and critical inquiry, the Master of Arts prepares graduates for roles in education, policy, community development, and more. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – no commissions or referral fees – helping you navigate Australia’s international education system.
Master of Arts (CRICOS course code 026642G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This program falls under the field of Society and Culture (broad field 09), focusing on advanced research skills and theoretical understanding. As a research degree, students work closely with supervisors to produce a thesis or equivalent output. The course is registered on the CRICOS register, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international students. University of the Sunshine Coast is a public university with a strong reputation for student support and research output. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, choosing a registered course like this guarantees quality and compliance with the ESOS Act, which protects your rights as an international student.
The Master of Arts (Research) is a flexible degree that allows you to pursue a research project in an area of society and culture. You will develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and academic writing. Typical areas of study include sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, history, or interdisciplinary topics. While the specific syllabus is set by the university, graduates emerge with the ability to design and execute independent research, contribute new knowledge to their field, and communicate findings effectively. This level (AQF Level 9) is internationally recognised and prepares you for doctoral study or senior roles in research, policy, or education.
The Master of Arts has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) on the CRICOS register, indicating a full-time commitment. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual award or foundation studies are included. Full-time study is typical for international students to maintain visa compliance. The course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education research degree. Students should plan for a structured schedule with regular meetings with their supervisor. The University of the Sunshine Coast may offer flexibility in start dates; check directly with the provider.
Tuition fees for the Master of Arts are indicative at A$65,000 for the full program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$65,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by the institution. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Living expenses in Queensland vary; for example, weekly rent in Brisbane or Sunshine Coast ranges from A$200 to A$400, and groceries around A$70–A$150. Always confirm current fees on the University of the Sunshine Coast website (www.usc.edu.au) before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Research degree, a higher score is often required, such as IELTS 6.5 or 7.0. Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field with honours or equivalent research experience. The University of the Sunshine Coast may consider relevant work or research outputs. There is no foundation studies component listed for this course. Check specific entry requirements on the provider's website, as they may include prerequisite subjects or a research proposal. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the university directly for precise criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. While research may involve fieldwork or data collection, it is not structured as a work placement or internship. International students can still work part-time under student visa conditions: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides opportunities to gain experience and offset living costs, but must not compromise academic progress.
The Master of Arts is delivered at two campuses of the University of the Sunshine Coast: UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie, QLD, and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs, QLD. Both locations are in Queensland, which has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Petrie is part of the Moreton Bay region, north of Brisbane, with good public transport connections. Sippy Downs is near the Sunshine Coast, a popular student area with a growing population. Living costs in Queensland are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around A$250–A$350 for shared accommodation. Campuses offer modern facilities, libraries, and research spaces.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if any). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions include attendance and academic progress. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as a consumer of education services. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Arts at University of the Sunshine Coast:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (Queensland) to find suitable options. Use the CRICOS register to verify registration.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) and academic qualifications. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, research proposal, references) before the deadline. Contact the University of the Sunshine Coast for specific application dates and procedures.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to submit a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to take the next step? Visit the University of the Sunshine Coast website (www.usc.edu.au) to confirm fees, entry requirements, and apply. For more courses, explore HeadStart Academy's comprehensive database of CRICOS-registered programs.
Master of Arts 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.