Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) (CRICOS course code 039987G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00109J) is ideal for international students seeking advanced research training in human physiology. As a research degree, it focuses on developing independent research skills under expert supervision. The field of education is Medical Studies (n.e.c.) within the Health area. The University of Newcastle, a Government university, offers this program at its Callaghan campus in New South Wales. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer protections. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you explore this and 26,433 other courses across 1,556 providers. The indicative total cost is A$107,003, including tuition and non-tuition fees but excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa fees. Read on for detailed information on entry requirements, student visa implications, and how to apply.
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This research degree is designed for students who want to delve deeply into human physiology, covering topics such as cellular and systems physiology, neurophysiology, cardiovascular function, and exercise physiology. At the Masters level (AQF Level 9), students undertake a substantial research project that contributes to knowledge in the field. You will work closely with a supervisory team to design experiments, collect and analyze data, and produce a thesis. The program emphasizes critical thinking, scientific writing, and presentation skills. While specific curriculum details are determined by The University of Newcastle, research degrees typically involve coursework in research methodology alongside the thesis. Graduates may pursue careers in biomedical research, healthcare, academia, or industry. This course is classified under Field of Education 060199 (Medical Studies, n.e.c.).
The Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The program is delivered in English, with all instruction and assessment conducted in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. As a research degree, it is offered on a full-time basis at The University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus. Students are expected to dedicate significant time to research activities, including laboratory work and literature review. The CRICOS registration confirms the course meets Australian standards for international student enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$106,238 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$765, bringing the total to A$107,003. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026 and are indicative only — they are subject to change by The University of Newcastle. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website: www.newcastle.edu.au. As a guide, living costs in Newcastle are lower than Sydney, with average weekly rent around A$300–400, groceries A$150–200, and public transport A$30–50. OSHC will cost approximately A$600–800 per year for a single student.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) are set by The University of Newcastle. Generally, a research degree at this level requires a relevant bachelor's degree with a strong academic record, typically a four-year honours degree or a master's degree with a research component. Applicants may need to demonstrate research experience. English language requirements vary; the provider typically requires IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. As this is a research degree, a research proposal and supervisor agreement may be required. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level — candidates are expected to have a solid background in health sciences. Always confirm exact prerequisites with the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research degree focused on academic study and research rather than professional placement. However, international students may be eligible to work part-time under their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, New South Wales. Callaghan is a suburb of Newcastle, approximately 12 km from the city centre. The university campus is well-served by public buses. Newcastle has a vibrant student community, with over 40,000 students at UoN alone. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, making it an attractive choice for international students. There are many CRICOS-registered providers in NSW (over 300), but UoN is a leading research-intensive university. The campus features modern research facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key conditions include: maintain OSHC, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and adhere to work limitations — 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily. You must also show sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs (currently at least A$21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel. After completing this research degree, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) which allows work in Australia. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance but recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
A research degree like the Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) requires a strong commitment to independent study and self-motivation. Before enrolling, consider your research interests — human physiology covers many subfields; ensure there is supervisor expertise at UoN. Understand that research degrees typically take 2 years full-time, but extensions may be possible. Funding for research projects may be available through scholarships. Also, think about career outcomes: research graduates often pursue PhDs, academic positions, or roles in R&D. Living in Newcastle offers a balanced lifestyle with proximity to beaches and national parks. Check the provider's research output and facilities. HeadStart Academy's /study/masters-degree-research/nsw page lists similar courses across NSW.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. The University of Newcastle is CRICOS-registered (00109J) and offers this course.
Step 2: Apply directly to The University of Newcastle — Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and CV. Check application deadlines on their website. Some programs require you to find a supervisor before applying.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, UoN will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For detailed visa steps, see our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page.
Master of Philosophy (Human Physiology) 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.