Master of Sustainable Built Environment (CRICOS course code 028054M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks). This program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, construct, and manage buildings and urban environments that are environmentally sustainable, resource-efficient, and socially responsible. As a CRICOS-registered course (028054M), it is available to international students under the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). UNSW is a government-owned university (CRICOS 00098G) located in Kensington, New South Wales, and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and how to apply. HeadStart Academy is your free resource for navigating CRICOS courses across Australia—no commission, no referral fees.
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Master of Sustainable Built Environment (CRICOS course code 028054M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks). This AQF Level 9 qualification falls under the field of Environmental Studies (050999) within the Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies broad field. The program is designed to produce graduates who can address complex sustainability challenges in the built environment sector, including energy efficiency, green building design, sustainable materials, and urban resilience. Students learn through a combination of coursework and project-based learning, preparing them for leadership roles in architecture, engineering, planning, and policy. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international education.
The Master of Sustainable Built Environment covers interdisciplinary subjects that integrate environmental science, design principles, and construction management. Graduates typically gain competencies in sustainable design strategies, lifecycle assessment, building performance simulation, and policy analysis. The curriculum emphasises practical application through case studies and industry projects. While specific modules are determined by UNSW, students can expect to develop expertise in reducing carbon footprints, enhancing indoor environmental quality, and applying green building rating systems. This field aligns with Australia's growing demand for sustainability professionals, with opportunities in government agencies, private consultancies, and non-profit organisations.
The course duration is 1 year 8 months (~86 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is typically delivered full-time on campus. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment (usually 40-48 credit points per year) is a condition of the Student Visa (Subclass 500). Part-time study may be possible under limited circumstances, such as for compassionate and compelling reasons, but you must discuss this with UNSW. The Kensington campus offers modern classrooms, labs, and library resources to support your studies.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Sustainable Built Environment is A$71,500 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, amenities, materials) are estimated at A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$73,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Sydney average A$400–600 per week for rent, A$80–100 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy provides fee data for reference only.
Admission to this Master's program typically requires a recognised bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as architecture, engineering, environmental science, or construction management. English proficiency is essential: the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent test scores like TOEFL or PTE). Some applicants may need to complete a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma as a pathway. UNSW may also consider relevant work experience for mature-age applicants. These are general guidelines; exact requirements are set by UNSW and may change. Always check the official UNSW website for the most up-to-date entry criteria. International students must also meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for the student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students are encouraged to seek internships, industry projects, or part-time work opportunities independently. As a student visa holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work experience can enhance your employability, but it is not a requirement of the course.
The Master of Sustainable Built Environment is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a vibrant suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 kilometres from the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people, and boasts a strong economy with many opportunities for built environment professionals. The city has more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering similar courses, reflecting a competitive education landscape. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; a student budget of A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport is typical.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year as of 2026), travel, and dependents if applicable. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to comply with all visa conditions. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for the Master of Sustainable Built Environment at UNSW involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. The Master of Sustainable Built Environment (028054M) is offered by UNSW (00098G), a CRICOS-registered government provider.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit UNSW's website (www.unsw.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement, English test results).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once UNSW issues your CoE, you can apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity. For visa guidance, consult a MARA agent if needed.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for studying sustainable built environment. With a large financial and construction sector, there are ample internship and employment opportunities. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you'll be part of a diverse international student community. However, living costs are higher than in other Australian cities. As a guide, weekly rent for a student can be A$300–500, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–50. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including tuition protection and access to support services. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences, and always confirm your eligibility for the course and visa before applying.
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Master of Sustainable Built Environment is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.