Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) (CRICOS course code 045911M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This research degree focuses on Indigenous Studies (field 090311) and prepares graduates for advanced research roles in Aboriginal affairs, policy, and community development. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolments. The University of Newcastle, a public research university, offers this program at its Callaghan and Central Coast campuses in New South Wales. With an indicative total fee of A$79,820, this program requires a strong academic background and English proficiency. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) upon receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD or work in Indigenous research, this degree provides a rigorous foundation.
Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) (CRICOS course code 045911M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program is designed for students who wish to conduct independent research in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies. It is classified under field 090311 - Indigenous Studies within the broad field of Society and Culture. As a research degree, it involves a thesis or equivalent output, supervised by academic experts. The University of Newcastle is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in Indigenous education and research. International students must ensure their chosen provider is CRICOS-registered; UoN holds CRICOS 00109J. This course is offered at two locations: Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses in NSW. The indicative tuition fee of A$79,055 covers the full program, but students should budget for additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
The Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) immerses students in advanced research methods and theories relevant to Indigenous studies. While specific syllabi vary, graduates of such programs typically develop skills in: critical analysis of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and contemporary issues; ethnographic and qualitative research methods; ethical engagement with Indigenous communities; policy analysis and advocacy; and academic writing and presentation. The degree culminates in a substantial thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field. This level of study (Masters Degree Research) emphasises independent inquiry, often preparing students for doctoral studies. UoN's Indigenous Studies program draws on interdisciplinary perspectives from sociology, anthropology, law, and education. Students benefit from the university's strong connections with local Aboriginal communities and research centres. As an international student, you'll also gain cross-cultural competencies and an understanding of Australia's Indigenous heritage, which is valuable in many professional contexts.
This course has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years (104 weeks). Full-time study is typical; part-time options may be available but can affect visa conditions. Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is research-focused, with no mandatory work component. Students are expected to dedicate significant time to independent research under supervision. The University of Newcastle offers a supportive research environment with access to libraries, labs, and Indigenous research networks. For visa purposes, international students must maintain full-time enrolment unless otherwise approved.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) is A$79,055 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, amenities) total approximately A$765, bringing the estimated total to A$79,820. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Importantly, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC for a single student for 2 years typically costs between A$1,000 and A$2,000, depending on the provider. Living costs in Newcastle and the Central Coast are lower than in Sydney: average weekly rent for a single person is around A$250–A$400, groceries A$100–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50. Always confirm current fees directly with The University of Newcastle at www.newcastle.edu.au before applying. Fees are set by the institution and may vary annually.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) are set by The University of Newcastle (UoN). Generally, applicants need a Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong academic record, often with honours or a research component. Relevant experience in Indigenous studies or related fields may be considered. English language proficiency is required; typical minimum scores are IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some providers may accept IELTS 5.5 with pathway programs, but this is not the case here as no foundation studies are offered. Applicants must demonstrate research capability, often through a research proposal or previous thesis. For precise requirements, consult UoN's website or contact their admissions office. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's entry criteria before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, students focus on their thesis and research activities. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work can be in any sector, but students should prioritise their studies. The University of Newcastle may offer research assistant positions or internships, but these are not part of the curriculum. Always check your visa conditions to ensure compliance.
This course is delivered at two campuses of The University of Newcastle: Callaghan (CALLAGHAN, NSW) and Central Coast (Ourimbah, NSW). Callaghan is the main campus, located about 12 km from Newcastle's city centre, with excellent public transport links via bus. Ourimbah campus is on the Central Coast, approximately 80 km north of Sydney, and accessible by train and bus. Newcastle is a vibrant city with a large student population (over 40,000 students from multiple institutions) and a lower cost of living than Sydney. The Central Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle with beaches and national parks. Both campuses provide modern facilities, libraries, and research centres. The region has several CRICOS-registered providers, giving students options. HeadStart Academy lists all delivery locations from the CRICOS register; the course is available at these two sites only.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. You must obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Newcastle before applying for the visa. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition plus living costs), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment and satisfactory course progress. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition fee protection and refund policies. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; we recommend visiting homeaffairs.gov.au or contacting a MARA agent.
3-step block specific to Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) at The University of Newcastle (UoN):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level (Masters Degree Research) and field (Indigenous Studies) to find suitable options. The University of Newcastle (UoN) is CRICOS-registered (00109J) and offers this exact course (045911M).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. UoN typically requires a research proposal and academic transcripts. Submit your application through the university's online portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, UoN issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Newcastle and the Central Coast offer a unique study experience: a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, a strong sense of community, and easy access to stunning beaches and national parks. Newcastle has a population of over 500,000, with a significant student community. The University of Newcastle is the main provider, but there are also TAFE NSW campuses and private colleges in the region. Public transport in Newcastle includes buses and a light rail; the Central Coast is serviced by trains to Sydney. Typical weekly living costs for a student: rent A$250–A$400, groceries A$100–A$150, transport A$30–A$50. The region has a rich Aboriginal heritage, making it an ideal setting for Indigenous Studies. However, consider that research-focused programs require self-motivation and access to supervisors – ensure UoN has faculty in your research area. HeadStart Academy's data shows over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, so compare options before deciding.
Explore more research courses in NSW at /study/masters-degree-research/nsw
Master of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies) 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.