Master of Philosophy (Environmental Science) (CRICOS course code 045910A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research-intensive program allows students to investigate pressing environmental issues, from climate change to biodiversity loss, under the supervision of leading academics. Delivered at UoN's Callaghan and Central Coast campuses, the course equips graduates with advanced analytical and research skills applicable to academia, government, and industry. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00109J), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. The University of Newcastle is a public research university consistently ranked among the top 200 globally, with strong environmental science credentials. Prospective students should note that this is a research degree, requiring a thesis component rather than coursework. The course is classified under field of education 050999 (Environmental Studies, n.e.c.) and sits at AQF Level 9. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. Use this page as a starting point to understand costs, entry requirements, and visa pathways.
Master of Philosophy (Environmental Science) (CRICOS course code 045910A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). This program is designed for students who want to develop advanced research skills in environmental science, culminating in a thesis. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The course is taught in English and does not include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students, who benefit from ESOS Act protections. The University of Newcastle is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation in environmental research, including its involvement in the Hunter Region's sustainability initiatives.
This Masters Degree (Research) focuses on Environmental Studies (field of education 050999). Students typically engage in independent research under supervision, developing skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and critical evaluation of environmental issues. While the exact syllabus is set by the university, graduates are expected to demonstrate the ability to make a significant contribution to knowledge in their chosen area. Topics may include climate change mitigation, ecosystem management, pollution control, or conservation biology. The program prepares students for roles in environmental consultancy, policy development, or further PhD studies. As a research degree, it emphasizes self-directed learning and original investigation, rather than structured coursework.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 2 years (104 weeks). It is a full-time research program, typically requiring students to be on campus for supervision meetings and access to facilities. The language of instruction is English. There is no part-time option indicated on the CRICOS register for international students due to visa conditions. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. The University of Newcastle expects students to attend either the Callaghan campus in Newcastle or the Central Coast campus in Ourimbah. The course is not available online—attendance is required for research activities.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition is A$106,238, non-tuition fees are A$765, giving an estimated total of A$107,003. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students in Australia typically budget A$500–1,200 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on location (Newcastle region is more affordable than Sydney). Always confirm current fees with The University of Newcastle at www.newcastle.edu.au before applying. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Degree (Research), universities usually require a higher band, such as 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.0. Prior qualifications: a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., environmental science, biology, chemistry) with at least second-class honours or equivalent. Some applicants may need to demonstrate research experience or submit a research proposal. Foundation/pathway options: if you do not meet direct entry, contact The University of Newcastle or consider a Graduate Certificate or Diploma as a pathway. Always check the provider's website for specific requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. These work rights help offset living costs but are not part of the academic program.
This course is delivered at two locations: The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) in CALLAGHAN, NSW, and The University of Newcastle (Central Coast) in Ourimbah, NSW. Callaghan is the main campus, located about 12 km from Newcastle city centre, with strong public transport connections via bus. Ourimbah is on the Central Coast, between Sydney and Newcastle, offering a semi-urban setting. Newcastle is a regional city with a population of ~500,000, known for its lower cost of living compared to Sydney (average rent $400–550/week for a one-bedroom). The Central Coast is a growing region with affordable housing. Both campuses provide research facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on campus in Australia. Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and English proficiency. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. All CRICOS-registered providers, including The University of Newcastle, must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring student protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Environmental Science) at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Environmental Studies), and location (NSW). Confirm The University of Newcastle (CRICOS 00109J) meets your criteria.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.newcastle.edu.au to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Submit your application through the university's online portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – If accepted, UoN will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC cover and sufficient funds for tuition and living costs. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Explore this Master of Philosophy (Environmental Science) program at The University of Newcastle (UoN) and take the next step toward your research career. Visit the provider's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses.
Master of Philosophy (Environmental Science) 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.