Are you an international student interested in pursuing a research degree in Classics at a leading Australian university? The Master of Philosophy (Classics) at The University of Newcastle (UoN) offers a pathway to advanced knowledge and research skills. Let's explore this CRICOS-registered course (032734G) in detail, covering everything from fees and duration to student visa requirements and how to apply.
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Master of Philosophy (Classics) (CRICOS course code 032734G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This course is designed for students who have a strong academic background in classics, ancient history, or related fields, and wish to undertake a significant research project under expert supervision. As a research degree, it develops advanced skills in critical analysis, scholarly writing, and independent research, preparing graduates for further study (PhD) or careers in academia, museums, heritage management, and education.
This course falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture (0903 - Studies in Human Society, n.f.d.). While the specific curriculum is determined by the university, research degrees at this level typically involve: designing and conducting original research, engaging with primary sources and scholarly literature, developing advanced theoretical and methodological expertise, and producing a thesis of approximately 40,000–50,000 words. Graduates emerge with deep knowledge of classical antiquity, including languages, literature, history, and archaeology, along with transferable research skills applicable across many sectors.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English on a full-time basis. The University of Newcastle (UoN) offers this as a single qualification, not as part of a dual or combined degree. There is no compulsory foundation studies component, but applicants without a suitable background may be required to complete preparatory coursework as determined by the university.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$79,055, with additional non-tuition fees of A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$79,820. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that these amounts do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check The University of Newcastle's website: www.newcastle.edu.au. International students should budget approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living expenses in Newcastle, which is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne.
Admission to the Master of Philosophy (Classics) requires a bachelor's degree with at least second-class honours (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as classics, ancient history, archaeology, or languages. English language requirements vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. For this research degree, UoN likely requires a higher proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0 with no band below 6.0). Some applicants may be admitted with a master's degree or substantial research experience. International students should also check specific prerequisite units or research proposals required by the university. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements—refer to The University of Newcastle for details.
This course does not include a work component. There are no mandatory internships, placements, or work-integrated learning requirements. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work during your studies: up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain valuable Australian work experience and offset living costs.
The Master of Philosophy (Classics) is delivered at two campuses: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) in Ourimbah, NSW. The Callaghan campus is the main campus, located about 12 km from Newcastle's city centre, with excellent public transport links (bus and train). Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city with a student population of over 37,000, offering a lower cost of living compared to Sydney—indicative weekly rent for a share house is A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$40–A$60. The Central Coast campus offers a smaller, regional study environment, ideal for students who prefer a quieter setting. Both campuses provide modern facilities, libraries, and research spaces.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, adequate health insurance (OSHC), sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel), and English proficiency. The visa allows you to work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during breaks). Dependants on Student Guardian (Subclass 590) visas may also accompany. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and quality standards. Visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs—always check current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Classics) at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW). Compare entry requirements, fees, and delivery options.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to The University of Newcastle (UoN) via their online portal. Prepare academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), a research proposal, and supervisor confirmation. Check application deadlines, which vary by semester.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, UoN will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. Visa processing can take several weeks, so apply early.
Ready to apply? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy. Research CRICOS courses, compare providers, and get free guidance on your Australian study visa.
Master of Philosophy (Classics) 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.