Master of Philosophy (Leisure and Tourism) (CRICOS course code 032739C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 research degree is designed for students who want to undertake supervised research in the field of leisure and tourism. The course is CRICOS-registered (provider code 00109J), meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The University of Newcastle is a public university with a strong research reputation, and its Newcastle City campus offers a vibrant study environment in the heart of Newcastle, New South Wales. This degree prepares graduates for careers in academia, tourism policy, and industry leadership. International students will benefit from Australia's strong tourism sector and Newcastle's growing economy. The indicative total fee for this course is A$79,820, which includes tuition and non-tuition fees. However, additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This research degree falls under the field of Education: 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0807 - Tourism. At Masters Degree (Research) level, students typically undertake independent research under the supervision of experienced academics. The focus is on developing advanced research skills, critical analysis, and a deep understanding of leisure and tourism dynamics. Graduates learn to design and execute a research project, contribute new knowledge to the field, and communicate findings effectively. While the exact research topics depend on the student's interests and supervisor expertise, typical areas include sustainable tourism, tourism management, visitor behaviour, and leisure theory. The degree culminates in a thesis that makes an original contribution to the field. This course does not include a work component, as it is a research degree.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Leisure and Tourism) has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree. The course is delivered on-campus at The University of Newcastle's Newcastle City location. As a research degree, students are expected to engage in regular supervision meetings, use university libraries and research facilities, and comply with academic milestones. The full-time study load generally requires a commitment of 35-40 hours per week, including independent research and coursework components if any. International students must maintain enrolment consistent with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$79,055, with non-tuition fees of A$765, giving an estimated total of A$79,820. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Newcastle (UoN). Note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs and the visa application charge. For the most current fee information, please visit the University's website (www.newcastle.edu.au). As a guide, living costs in Newcastle are generally lower than in Sydney, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350-450, groceries A$80-100, and public transport A$30-40. International students should budget accordingly. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee amounts; they are subject to change.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Leisure and Tourism) typically include a relevant bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with honours or equivalent, or a master's degree in a related field. Some prior research experience may be required. The University of Newcastle will assess each application individually. English language requirements: typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent. However, specific requirements vary by provider. This course does not offer foundation studies, but pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry. Contact The University of Newcastle for details. Note: International students must meet both academic and English requirements to obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for precise entry criteria.
Work Component: No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, students focus on their thesis research rather than industry placement. However, students may undertake casual work outside study hours in compliance with their student visa conditions.
This course is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Newcastle City) campus in Newcastle, NSW. Newcastle is a coastal city about 150 km north of Sydney, with a population of over 500,000. It is home to several CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Sydney, making it attractive for international students. Public transport includes buses and trains connecting to Sydney. Newcastle has a vibrant student community and a growing tourism industry. Students studying tourism in Newcastle can benefit from local attractions like beaches, wineries, and cultural events. The University of Newcastle's city campus is modern and well-equipped with research facilities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs, and meeting English proficiency requirements. As of April 2026, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory. The visa application charge is not included in tuition fees. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and recommends seeking MARA-registered advice for visa applications.
Ready to apply for Master of Philosophy (Leisure and Tourism) at The University of Newcastle (UoN)? Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Tourism), and location (Newcastle). This ensures you only consider legitimate, government-approved institutions. 2. Apply directly to The University of Newcastle (UoN): Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and English language test results. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Newcastle offers a unique environment for postgraduate research in leisure and tourism. The city has a strong focus on sustainable tourism and urban regeneration. With its beaches, national parks, and cultural events, Newcastle provides real-world contexts for tourism research. The cost of living is lower than major capitals, allowing students to stretch their budgets. The University of Newcastle has dedicated research centres in tourism and hospitality. However, consider that Newcastle is smaller than Sydney, which may limit networking opportunities. Nevertheless, its proximity to Sydney (2 hours by train) offers access to a larger market. International students should also consider climate, lifestyle, and support services. HeadStart Academy can help you compare providers in Newcastle and across Australia.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit The University of Newcastle (UoN) website or contact their admissions office directly.
Master of Philosophy (Leisure and Tourism) 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.