Master of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 045882M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program is designed for registered nurses and health professionals seeking to advance their research skills and contribute to the nursing body of knowledge. The course falls under the field of General Nursing (060301) and is offered by a government-funded, CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00109J). As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, the data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses across Australia, this research master's provides a pathway to PhD study or leadership roles in nursing. Located in New South Wales, the course is delivered at two campuses: Callaghan and Ourimbah. The University of Newcastle is a world-class institution with a strong reputation in health and medical research. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections and Australia's robust education quality framework. Whether you're aiming for a career in academia, clinical research, or advanced practice, this degree equips you with the skills to lead.
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The Master of Philosophy (Nursing) is a research degree focused on General Nursing (field of education 060301). Students conduct independent research under the supervision of experienced academics, culminating in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to nursing practice, education, or policy. This level of study develops advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and scholarly writing skills. Graduates are prepared for doctoral study or senior roles in healthcare leadership, clinical research, and academia. The exact research topics and supervisory arrangements are determined in consultation with the faculty at The University of Newcastle. As a research degree, coursework is minimal; the emphasis is on original investigation aligned with the student's interests and the university's research strengths in health and medicine.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not include foundation studies or a VET component. Students are expected to be enrolled on a full-time basis to comply with student visa conditions. The program is research-intensive, with no compulsory coursework units, allowing students to focus on their thesis project. Part-time options may be available for domestic students but are not typically recommended for international student visa holders.
The indicative fees for the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) at The University of Newcastle, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: tuition fee A$79,055, non-tuition fee A$765, and estimated total A$79,820. Please note that these fees are indicative only and are set by the institution. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. The Department of Home Affairs recommends a minimum living cost of A$29,710 per year for a single student (as of 2026). Always check the latest fees on The University of Newcastle's official website before applying. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee accuracy beyond the CRICOS register data.
Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) vary by provider, but general expectations for a research master's at AQF Level 9 include a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field with honours (or equivalent), and evidence of research capability. English language proficiency is mandatory; typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on course level, with research degrees often requiring 7.0 or higher. The University of Newcastle may also consider prior research experience or a research proposal. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this level. Applicants should consult The University of Newcastle's website for specific entry criteria and any additional requirements such as interviews or portfolios.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Master of Philosophy (Nursing) is a research degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation, with no industry placement or internship requirement. However, students may choose to engage in voluntary research-related activities or part-time work subject to student visa conditions.
The Master of Philosophy (Nursing) is delivered at two campuses of The University of Newcastle: the Callaghan campus in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and the Central Coast campus in Ourimbah, NSW. The Callaghan campus is the main campus, located approximately 12 km from Newcastle's central business district, with excellent public transport links via bus and train. Ourimbah is situated on the Central Coast, about 80 km north of Sydney, accessible by train and car. Newcastle itself has a student population of over 20,000 and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent A$300–450, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$30–50. The region is home to more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options.
International students enrolling in the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course, maintenance of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and satisfaction of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Students must demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs (A$29,710 per year for a single student), travel expenses, and dependents if applicable. Work rights include 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may also have work rights. It is essential to consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent for personalised visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) at The University of Newcastle:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: You've already found this course on HeadStart Academy. Confirm that The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) meets your criteria for research focus, location, and reputation.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit The University of Newcastle's website to review specific entry requirements, including English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), academic transcripts, research proposal, and application deadlines. Submit your application online with all required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Upon acceptance, UoN will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence ready.
New South Wales (NSW) is a premier study destination with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 4,000 courses. While Sydney is the largest hub, regional cities like Newcastle provide a more affordable and student-friendly environment. Newcastle's public transport network includes buses and trains, with frequent services to campuses. Living costs in Newcastle are significantly lower than in Sydney: indicative weekly rent A$250–400, groceries A$70–100, and transport A$30–50. The city has a vibrant cultural scene and a large student community. All institutions in NSW are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. For international students considering research at a regional university, Newcastle offers strong support services and a collaborative research culture.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above or contact The University of Newcastle directly for detailed information on applications and deadlines.
Master of Philosophy (Nursing) 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.