Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) CRICOS 039991A

Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) (CRICOS 039991A) at The University of Newcastle

Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) (CRICOS course code 039991A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 research program is designed for international students seeking to deepen their expertise in medical biochemistry within Australia's world-class research environment. The University of Newcastle, a public university in New South Wales, offers access to cutting-edge laboratories and experienced supervisors. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00109J), UoN meets strict Australian Government standards for international education. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your application. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers.

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Course Overview

Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) (CRICOS course code 039991A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (01), specifically Biological Sciences (0109) with a focus on Biochemistry and Cell Biology (010901). It is an AQF Level 9 qualification, meaning it is a research-focused degree that contributes to original knowledge in medical biochemistry. The program is ideal for students aiming for careers in biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, or further PhD study. The University of Newcastle is a government university with a strong reputation in health and medical sciences, offering state-of-the-art research facilities at its Callaghan campus.

What You'll Study

The Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) is a research degree that involves a substantial thesis project. Students typically engage in supervised research in areas such as cellular signalling, molecular biology, enzymology, and metabolic disorders. The program develops advanced skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. While the exact research topic is determined in consultation with a supervisor, graduates emerge with deep expertise in medical biochemistry and the ability to contribute to cutting-edge biomedical discoveries. This field of education prepares students for roles in research institutions, diagnostic laboratories, and the biotechnology industry.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (not a dual award). The program is full-time and research-based, meaning students are expected to devote themselves to their project under supervision. There is no foundation studies component or VET national code, as this is a higher education research degree.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fees for the Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) are indicative and set by The University of Newcastle. As per the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for the full 2-year program is A$106,238. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$107,003. These fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on coverage. Living costs in Newcastle are lower than in Sydney, with indicative weekly rent of A$350–A$500 for a single person. Always confirm current fees on The University of Newcastle's official website before applying. Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) vary by provider. Generally, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as biochemistry, molecular biology, or medical science. English language proficiency is required; typical IELTS scores range from 6.5 to 7.0 overall (with no band less than 6.0). Some candidates may also need to provide a research proposal and identify a supervisor before applying. Foundation or pathway options are not available for this level; however, UoN offers postgraduate preparation programs for students who need to meet English or academic prerequisites. Always check the specific entry requirements on The University of Newcastle's website, as they may change.

Work Component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) — CALLAGHAN, NSW. Callaghan is a suburb approximately 12 km from Newcastle's city centre. The campus is accessible by public bus services and offers on-campus accommodation. Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city with a growing international student population. There are several CRICOS-registered providers in Newcastle, including the University of Newcastle, TAFE NSW, and private colleges. The cost of living in Newcastle is generally lower than in Sydney, with average weekly rent for a room in a shared apartment around A$350–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and a public transport ticket about A$30–A$50 per week. These figures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Student Visa

International students in Australia must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. This visa requires applicants to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. The visa application charge (VAC) is currently A$710 (as of July 2024) and subject to change. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa guidance, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).

Choosing a Research Degree in Medical Biochemistry in Newcastle

Newcastle offers a unique environment for medical biochemistry research. The University of Newcastle is known for its Hunter Medical Research Institute and strong links to local hospitals. Living in Newcastle provides a balanced lifestyle with beaches, national parks, and a friendly community. When choosing this program, consider your research interests, supervisor availability, and the resources at UoN's Callaghan campus. The city's lower cost of living compared to Sydney can ease financial pressure, but ensure you budget for rent, food, and transport. With a robust public transport system and a growing international student community, Newcastle is an attractive choice for research students.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) at The University of Newcastle: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) — use HeadStart Academy to explore options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — ensure you meet entry requirements, submit English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and adhere to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — prepare your GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence. Consult a MARA agent if needed.

Ready to begin your research journey? Start by checking your eligibility on HeadStart Academy and apply directly to The University of Newcastle.

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Source-backed course facts

Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry)
CRICOS course code
039991A
Provider
The University of Newcastle (UoN) (00109J)
Course level
Masters Degree (Research)
Field of education
01 - Natural and Physical Sciences
Duration
104 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$106,238
Estimated total (indicative)
A$107,003
Delivery locations
CALLAGHAN
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$106,238 for the full 2-year program, with additional non-tuition fees of A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$107,003. These fees do not include OSHC, living expenses, or visa application costs. Fees are set by the university and subject to change — always check the official website for current fees.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time research degree. Part-time study may be available but is not typically recommended for international students due to visa conditions.
Entry requirements typically include a bachelor's degree with honours in a relevant field such as biochemistry, molecular biology, or medical science. English language proficiency must be demonstrated, usually with an IELTS overall score of 6.5-7.0 (no band less than 6.0). Specific prerequisites vary, so always confirm with The University of Newcastle's admissions office.
The course is delivered at The University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus in CALLAGHAN, NSW. The campus is about 12 km from Newcastle's city centre and is accessible by public buses. On-campus accommodation is available.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$107,003 for Master of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry) (tuition A$106,238). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of Newcastle (UoN) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 039991A, offered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) (provider code 00109J). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.