Master of Philosophy (Clinical Pharmacology) (CRICOS course code 039940A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This course is designed for students aiming to conduct original research in clinical pharmacology, a field that bridges natural and physical sciences with practical medical applications. Graduates develop advanced skills in drug development, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic monitoring. The University of Newcastle, a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 00109J, offers this program at its Callaghan campus in NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and benefit from the protections of the ESOS Act. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (as at April 2026) to ensure accuracy. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available across Australia, this page helps you evaluate whether this research degree aligns with your academic and career goals. Always confirm fees and entry requirements with UoN before applying.
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Master of Philosophy (Clinical Pharmacology) (CRICOS course code 039940A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 qualification sits within the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01), specifically Other Natural and Physical Sciences (narrow field 0199) and Pharmacology (detailed field 019907). The course is research-intensive, requiring students to complete a thesis under 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 research university with a strong reputation in health and medical sciences. International students choosing this course must meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with no referral fees, to help you make informed decisions.
This research degree focuses on the scientific study of drugs and their effects on living systems. Students explore areas such as drug metabolism, pharmacodynamics, toxicology, and clinical trial design. The program develops skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. While the exact syllabus is set by UoN, graduates of pharmacology programs typically gain expertise in drug development, regulatory affairs, and personalised medicine. This course is ideal for those pursuing careers in pharmaceuticals, healthcare research, or academia. Practical laboratory work is a key component, though no mandatory work placement is included. The field of pharmacology is critical to advancing medical treatments, and Australia is home to several leading research institutions in this area. By studying at UoN, you will join a vibrant research community with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 104 weeks (2 years). It is offered as a single qualification (not dual) and conducted in English. The standard intake is full-time study, though research degrees may allow flexible timelines subject to supervisor agreement. Language of instruction is English, so you must demonstrate proficiency through an accepted test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). There is no foundation studies component integrated into this course. As a research degree, students typically spend significant time on independent study, with regular supervisory meetings. The duration may vary depending on thesis completion, but the CRICOS duration is set at 2 years for visa purposes. International students must maintain enrolment consistent with their visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$106,238 total (from CRICOS register, April 2026). Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, amenities) add approximately A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$107,003. Important: These amounts do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with UoN's website: www.newcastle.edu.au. Living costs in Newcastle are generally lower than in Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around $180–$250, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $30–$50. Students should budget for these costs plus OSHC (approximately $600–$800 per year for single cover). Fees are subject to change and are set by the institution. HeadStart Academy presents these figures as a guide only.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Clinical Pharmacology) are set by The University of Newcastle. Generally, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., pharmacology, pharmacy, medicine, or biological sciences) with a high grade is required. Some applicants may need to demonstrate research experience or submit a research proposal. English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For research degrees, UoN often requires IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. If you do not meet direct entry, UoN may offer pathway options such as a graduate certificate or diploma. Contact UoN for specific prerequisite subjects or grade point average (GPA) thresholds. As a guide, many Australian universities require at least a 4.0 GPA on a 7.0 scale for research master's entry. Always verify directly with the provider, as entry criteria can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, the focus is on thesis work rather than a compulsory internship or placement. However, UoN may offer optional industry placements or projects as part of the research experience. International students can still gain work experience through casual employment (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks) under their Student visa (Subclass 500). It is important to check with UoN's career services for any opportunities in clinical pharmacology. The absence of a mandatory work component does not preclude practical research training conducted within the university's laboratories.
This course is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW. Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city approximately 160 km north of Sydney. The Callaghan campus is the main campus, well-served by public buses and a shuttle service. Newcastle has a student population of over 37,000 at UoN alone, with a multicultural community. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, with ample housing, dining, and entertainment options. There are several other CRICOS-registered providers in Newcastle, including TAFE NSW and the University of Newcastle (which also has campuses in other locations). Public transport connects the campus to the city centre and surrounding suburbs. Students can enjoy beaches, parks, and a thriving arts scene. The city's healthcare sector is strong, with hospitals and research centres providing potential networking opportunities.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a full-time CRICOS course, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants may accompany and have work rights. After completing the degree, graduates may be eligible for post-study work visas (Subclass 485). The Department of Home Affairs assesses visa applications, and HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. OSHC is mandatory and can be arranged through Australian providers. Visa fees apply; check the Home Affairs website for current charges.
Applying for Master of Philosophy (Clinical Pharmacology) at The University of Newcastle involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Pharmacology), and location (NSW). Compare providers like UoN. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UoN's website (www.newcastle.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit your application, and provide documentation (transcripts, English test scores, research proposal). Deadlines vary; check for semester intakes. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UoN issues the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, proof of funds, and a valid passport. Consult a registered migration agent if needed. HeadStart Academy does not process applications but provides this guide as a free resource.
Ready to apply? Visit The University of Newcastle (UoN) website or explore similar Masters Degree (Research) courses in NSW on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Philosophy (Clinical Pharmacology) 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.