Master of Philosophy (Medicine) (CRICOS course code 039999D) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to contribute to medical knowledge through independent research under expert supervision. The course falls under the field of General Medicine (060101) and equips graduates with advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to communicate complex findings. As a CRICOS-registered course (039999D), it complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer protection. The University of Newcastle is a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00109J) with campuses in Callaghan and Ourimbah, New South Wales. If you are interested in pursuing a research career in medicine, this degree offers a pathway to doctoral studies or roles in healthcare research, academia, or industry. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you make informed decisions about your study journey in Australia.
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The Master of Philosophy (Medicine) is a research degree in the field of General Medicine (060101). Students undertake a substantial research project, often culminating in a thesis of up to 50,000 words. The program develops skills in research design, data collection and analysis, academic writing, and presentation. While the specific focus varies by supervisor, typical areas include biomedical science, clinical research, public health, or health services research. Graduates are prepared for further research (PhD) or roles in medical research institutes, universities, hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies. This degree is classified at AQF Level 9, indicating a high level of independent research capability. The research environment at UoN includes state-of-the-art laboratories, clinical partnerships, and a strong culture of interdisciplinary collaboration.
The Master of Philosophy (Medicine) is a full-time research degree with a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to work on their research projects throughout the year, with supervision meetings and milestone reviews. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may have opportunities for part-time work in research assistant roles or teaching within the university, subject to visa conditions. The course is designed for continuous engagement with research activities, and progress is monitored through annual reports and thesis submission.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Medicine) at The University of Newcastle is A$106,238 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees (including student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$107,003. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (approx. A$600–700 per year), living expenses (approx. A$25,000 per year for a single student), and the student visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with The University of Newcastle. For a breakdown, see the table below.
Entry into the Master of Philosophy (Medicine) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as medicine, biomedical science, or health sciences. Applicants must demonstrate research potential, often through a research proposal or prior research experience. English language proficiency is required — providers generally set a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0 to 6.5). Some may accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. For those who do not meet direct entry requirements, pathway programs such as a graduate certificate or diploma in research preparation may be available — check with The University of Newcastle for specific options. The university also considers professional experience and published research in some cases.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students focus on their research thesis and academic requirements. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Research students may also engage in casual research assistant work or tutoring within the university, which can provide valuable experience and income. Always refer to your visa conditions and consult with the university's international student support for guidance. The lack of a mandatory work component allows students to dedicate full attention to their research.
The Master of Philosophy (Medicine) is delivered at two campuses of The University of Newcastle: - The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW - The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) in Ourimbah, NSW
The Callaghan campus is the main campus, located approximately 12 km from Newcastle city centre. It offers extensive research facilities, libraries, and student services. The Ourimbah campus on the Central Coast provides a smaller, community-focused environment. Newcastle is a vibrant regional city with a large student population, affordable living costs compared to Sydney, and excellent public transport connecting the campuses. The Central Coast region offers a balanced lifestyle with proximity to beaches and national parks. Both locations provide access to clinical placement networks and research collaborations.
International students enrolling in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay - Sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel - Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks
All CRICOS-registered providers are required to comply with the ESOS Act, which protects international students' rights, including tuition fee protection and support services. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. The University of Newcastle also offers dedicated visa support through its international student office.
New South Wales is home to over 500 CRICOS-registered providers, offering more than 12,000 courses. The University of Newcastle is one of Australia's leading research universities, consistently ranked in the top 200 globally. The city of Newcastle has a population of over 500,000, with a significant student community. Living costs are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne — indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350, groceries A$80, and public transport A$40. The region offers a relaxed lifestyle with beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions. For international students, Newcastle provides a supportive environment with dedicated international student services, including orientation, academic support, and social activities. The city’s growing health and medical research sector also offers networking and career opportunities.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify that The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) offers the Master of Philosophy (Medicine) (CRICOS 039999D). HeadStart Academy provides a free search tool to filter by course level, field, and location. 2. Apply directly to The University of Newcastle: Check the specific entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents. Submit your application through the university's online portal before the deadline. Contact the admissions office for guidance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet the GTE requirement and arrange OSHC. After visa grant, you can plan your travel to Australia.
Ready to apply? Contact The University of Newcastle for current fees and deadlines, or use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses.
Master of Philosophy (Medicine) 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.