Master of Philosophy (Food Science) (CRICOS course code 032853A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research-focused program, in the field of Food Science and Biotechnology (019905), allows students to investigate advanced topics in food science under expert supervision. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Newcastle is a public university with a strong reputation in research and teaching, offering this program at its Central Coast campus in Ourimbah, New South Wales. Whether you aim to work in food product development, quality assurance, or academic research, this degree provides a pathway to deepen your expertise in a growing field. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), covering over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ registered providers. Note that fees and conditions are indicative and subject to change.
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The Master of Philosophy (Food Science) is a 2-year research degree at AQF Level 9, designed for graduates seeking to undertake a substantial research project in food science. The course focuses on the application of scientific principles to food production, preservation, and safety. Students develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking, culminating in a thesis. The field of education (019905 - Food Science and Biotechnology) encompasses areas such as food chemistry, microbiology, processing technologies, and biotechnology. Graduates are prepared for roles in research institutions, food manufacturing companies, and regulatory bodies. The course is delivered in English with no work component, ensuring students can dedicate full attention to their research.
While specific syllabi vary, a research degree in food science typically involves core training in research methodology and ethics, followed by an independent research project under supervisor guidance. Students may investigate topics like food safety, novel food ingredients, shelf-life extension, or bioprocessing. The program develops expertise in laboratory techniques, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. As a student, you will contribute new knowledge to the field, with findings often leading to publications or industry collaborations. The Central Coast campus offers modern facilities including laboratories and research centres.
According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time enrolment is expected for international students to maintain visa conditions. The University of Newcastle may also offer flexible study arrangements subject to approval, but the standard pathway is full-time on-campus research.
Tuition fees for the Master of Philosophy (Food Science) are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The indicative tuition fee is A$106,238 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$107,003. These fees are set by The University of Newcastle and are subject to change. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For current fees, always check the provider’s website at www.newcastle.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider; for this course, typical expectations are IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on the research field. Applicants generally need a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., food science, chemistry, biology) with a strong academic record. Some students may enter via a coursework master's degree or with relevant work experience. The University of Newcastle may offer pathway options such as pre-master's programs; refer to the provider for specific entry requirements. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or industry placement. Students are expected to be engaged in research activities on campus. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are not tied to the course content.
The Master of Philosophy (Food Science) is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) campus in Ourimbah, New South Wales. Ourimbah is located on the Central Coast, approximately 90 km north of Sydney and 30 km south of Newcastle. The Central Coast has a growing student population with several CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in the area are generally lower than in Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around $300–400. Public transport includes buses and train connections to Sydney and Newcastle. The campus offers purpose-built facilities for research students.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university, evidence of financial capacity, English proficiency, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The visa allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating an intention to stay temporarily for study. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Food Science) at The University of Newcastle: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers - use HeadStart Academy's search tool to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Food Science), and location (NSW). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution - prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines on the university website. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student in NSW).
The Central Coast of NSW offers a balanced lifestyle with beaches, national parks, and a quieter environment compared to Sydney. The University of Newcastle's Central Coast campus provides a close-knit research community. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in the region, including TAFE and private colleges, the area supports diverse study options. Living costs are moderate, but transport to major cities is accessible. Consider your preference for a relaxed pace versus urban intensity when choosing a study location.
Q1: How much does Master of Philosophy (Food Science) cost at The University of Newcastle (UoN)? A: The indicative tuition fee is A$106,238, with non-tuition fees of A$765, totalling around A$107,003. This does not include OSHC, living expenses, or visa fees. Always verify with the provider.
Q2: How long is Master of Philosophy (Food Science)? A: The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study, as recorded on the CRICOS register.
Q3: What are the entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Food Science)? A: Generally, a relevant bachelor's degree with good grades, and English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5–7.0. Specific requirements vary; check the university website.
Q4: Where is Master of Philosophy (Food Science) delivered? A: The course is delivered at The University of Newcastle's Central Coast campus in Ourimbah, NSW.
Explore more CRICOS-registered courses and providers using HeadStart Academy's free search tool.
Master of Philosophy (Food Science) 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.