Master of Arts (by Research) (CRICOS course code 039990B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 2 years. This research-intensive program is classified under the field of Society and Culture (Field of Education 090000) and is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced scholarship in the humanities and social sciences. Monash University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00008C) and a prestigious government university, offers this degree at its Caulfield campus in Melbourne, Victoria. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide this page to help international students and migrants understand the programme's structure, costs, and visa requirements. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, and only CRICOS-registered providers like Monash are authorised to enrol international students. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this PhD-preparatory degree represents a pathway to high-level research careers. Whether you are exploring options for a research degree or assessing the financial investment, HeadStart Academy offers free, unbiased information to guide your decision.
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Master of Arts (by Research) (CRICOS course code 039990B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Monash University (Monash) over 2 years. This program sits at AQF Level 9 and is classified under Field of Education 090000 (Society and Culture, n.f.d.). Monash University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00008C), is a government-owned institution consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide. The programme is delivered at the Monash Caulfield campus in Caulfield East, Victoria, a vibrant suburb of Melbourne. Students undertaking this research degree will develop advanced analytical and methodological skills, culminating in a thesis that contributes original knowledge to their chosen field. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment, ensuring quality and compliance with the ESOS Act.
As a research master's degree in Society and Culture, you will engage in independent, supervised research that deepens your understanding of societal structures, cultural dynamics, and human behaviour. Graduates at this level typically demonstrate the ability to design and execute a substantial research project, critically evaluate existing literature, and communicate complex findings effectively. While the specific thesis topic depends on your supervisory arrangement, the program develops transferable skills in project management, data analysis, and scholarly writing. This degree is ideal for those aiming for doctoral studies or leadership roles in academia, research institutions, government, or the non-profit sector. Monash University provides access to extensive library resources, research centres, and expert supervisors across a wide range of specialisations within Society and Culture.
The Master of Arts (by Research) is a 2-year (104 weeks) full-time program, as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not include any mandatory work component. Students are expected to devote themselves to full-time study to meet the research milestones and thesis submission deadlines. Monash University may offer part-time options for domestic students, but international students must generally maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Arts (by Research) is A$91,052 for the full 2-year program, as sourced from the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$91,052. Please note that these figures are indicative only, set by Monash University, and subject to change. You must verify current fees directly with the provider. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For international students in Melbourne, indicative weekly living costs are approximately A$350–550 for rent, A$80–150 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. Always budget for personal expenses and health insurance. For the most up-to-date fee information, visit Monash University's website.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for a master's by research at Monash University, typically an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.0–6.5) is expected. You should also hold a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a relevant discipline with a strong academic record. Some research experience or a demonstrated capacity to undertake independent research is highly regarded. Applicants may need to submit a research proposal and secure a supervisor before applying. Foundation studies are not applicable for this level, but pathway programs such as a graduate certificate or diploma may be considered. Refer to Monash University's website for precise entry requirements, as they may vary by faculty and research area.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may still seek casual employment during their studies, subject to student visa work limitations.
The Master of Arts (by Research) is delivered at Monash Caulfield, located in Caulfield East, Victoria. This campus is part of Melbourne, a city with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Caulfield East is well-served by public transport, with trains, trams, and buses connecting to the city centre and other suburbs. Melbourne offers a diverse cultural scene, moderate living costs compared to other Australian capitals, and a strong job market for students.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and permits work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable), and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Monash University will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) once your application is accepted, which you need to apply for the visa. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter Monash University and confirm the course details. Ensure the course code 039990B appears. 2. Apply directly to Monash University: Submit an online application through Monash's admissions portal, meeting entry requirements (academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and supervisor nomination). Check application deadlines for international students. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Monash will issue a CoE. Then lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of genuine temporary stay, financial capacity, and OSHC. Always confirm the latest visa requirements on the Home Affairs website.
Victoria is home to over 10 CRICOS-registered universities and many vocational providers, making it a popular destination for international students. Melbourne, the capital, offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a range of part-time work opportunities. The cost of living in Melbourne is generally lower than Sydney but higher than regional areas. For a research student, Victoria provides access to national libraries, archives, and research networks. Consider your research area and supervisor availability when choosing a location. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare states and providers.
Start your application today by visiting Monash University's website or using HeadStart Academy to compare more research degrees.
Master of Arts (by Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Monash University (Monash). 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.