Master of Philosophy (Politics) (CRICOS course code 045926D) 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 undertake advanced study and original research in the field of political science. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 00109J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD or enter policy-related careers, this program offers a strong foundation. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — no commission, no referral fees. Remember that only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and The University of Newcastle is a trusted government institution.
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Master of Philosophy (Politics) (CRICOS course code 045926D) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 2 years (104 weeks). The program is classified under the field of Society and Culture (09), Political Science and Policy Studies (0901), specifically Political Science (090101). This AQF Level 9 qualification prepares graduates for further research or professional roles in government, non-profits, and academia. The University of Newcastle is a public, government-owned university with over 37,000 students, including 7,000 international students from more than 100 countries. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00109J), UoN must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring international students' tuition protection and welfare. The course is taught in English and does not include a compulsory work component or foundation studies. It is a single degree (not dual). All information here is drawn from the official CRICOS register, updated as at 1 April 2026.
The Master of Philosophy (Politics) immerses students in advanced political science research. While the specific research project is determined by the student and supervisor, the course typically covers research methodology, political theory, comparative politics, and policy analysis. Graduates develop skills in critical analysis, data collection, argumentation, and academic writing. This research degree is ideal for those seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field of political science. The University of Newcastle's School of Humanities and Social Science offers a vibrant research environment with access to extensive library resources and research centres. Students are expected to complete a thesis of approximately 40,000–50,000 words under expert supervision. The program aligns with AQF Level 9 outcomes, which include systematic understanding of a complex field, cognitive skills for research, and communication of knowledge to diverse audiences. Always check the provider's website for detailed curriculum information.
The CRICOS register lists Master of Philosophy (Politics) with a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). This is a full-time research program. The language of instruction is English. As a single qualification, it does not lead to dual awards. The program is offered on-campus at The University of Newcastle's Newcastle City campus in New South Wales. While no foundation studies are attached, applicants must meet entry requirements set by the university. Note that the CRICOS duration is indicative; actual completion time may vary depending on research progress. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The University of Newcastle provides student support services including academic skills development and research training. For part-time options, international students should consult the university directly, as visa conditions typically require full-time study.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Politics) is A$94,690 over the full program, plus non-tuition fees of A$765 (e.g., student services, amenities). The estimated total is A$95,455. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. OSHC typically costs between A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Newcastle range from A$1,200–A$1,800 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy always recommends checking the provider's website for current fees. The University of Newcastle's student portal provides detailed fee breakdowns and payment schedules. Remember that fees are set by institutions, and we advise confirming before enrolment. ESOS Act protections ensure that if the provider fails, your fees may be covered under the Tuition Protection Service.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Politics) vary by provider. At The University of Newcastle, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a minimum GPA of 5.0/7.0 (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as politics, international relations, or social science. A research proposal and the availability of a suitable supervisor are critical. English language requirements: the provider generally requires IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. Some courses may require IELTS 7.0. Check the University of Newcastle's website for exact scores. Foundation studies are not applicable as this is a research degree. Applicants with prior research experience (e.g., honours degree) may be preferred. International students must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) compliance. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the university's admissions office for precise requirements, as they can change. All CRICOS-registered providers must publish entry requirements on their websites.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Master of Philosophy (Politics) is a research degree focused on thesis production and academic study. 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. This can help with living expenses, but should not interfere with research progress. The University of Newcastle offers career services and part-time job opportunities. While no work component is part of the curriculum, students may engage in research assistant roles at the university. Always check visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Master of Philosophy (Politics) is delivered at The University of Newcastle's Newcastle City campus, located in the city centre of Newcastle, New South Wales. Newcastle is the second-largest city in NSW with a population of over 490,000. It has a vibrant student community and more than 10 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The campus is accessible by public transport, including trains and buses. Weekly rent in Newcastle averages A$300–A$500 for a one-bedroom apartment. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney. The University of Newcastle also has campuses at Callaghan and Ourimbah, but this specific course is listed at the City campus. Students may also access research facilities across locations. Newcastle is known for its beaches, cultural scene, and strong ties to the energy industry. International students enjoy a welcoming environment with many student clubs and support services.
International students enrolling in Master of Philosophy (Politics) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Newcastle. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). As of April 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks. The visa duration typically matches the course length (2 years) plus a 2‑month buffer. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections apply for all CRICOS courses.
Follow these steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Politics) at The University of Newcastle: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is registered (CRICOS 00109J). 2) Apply directly to The University of Newcastle. Check entry requirements (qualifications, English test scores, research proposal, supervisor availability) and deadlines. Submit applications via the university's online portal. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply early. HeadStart Academy does not process applications but provides this guidance as a free resource.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore Master of Philosophy (Politics) at The University of Newcastle today.
Master of Philosophy (Politics) 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.