Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) (CRICOS course code 048398K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Australian National University over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it provides advanced research training in Earth Sciences, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, and industry. The program is delivered at the ANU Canberra City West campus, in the heart of Australia's capital city, home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses nationwide. Explore the fees, entry requirements, and application process below.
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Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) (CRICOS course code 048398K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Australian National University over 2 years. This course falls under the field of education: 01 - Natural and Physical Sciences, specifically 0107 - Earth Sciences (n.f.d.). As a research degree, students undertake a significant research project under supervision, culminating in a thesis. The program is designed for those seeking to deepen their knowledge in Earth Sciences, including geology, geophysics, and environmental earth systems. Graduates are equipped with skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking, leading to careers in research institutions, mining, environmental consulting, and government agencies. Australian National University, with CRICOS provider code 00120C, is a government-funded university consistently ranked among the world's top institutions. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
The Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) has a standard duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification (no dual qualification). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to engage in full-time research, with access to world-class laboratories and field equipment. The program does not include a mandatory work component, though students may seek casual employment under student visa conditions. For precise enrolment timelines, contact Australian National University directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) at Australian National University is A$113,760 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$746, bringing the total indicative cost to A$114,506. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For current and accurate fees, always check Australian National University's official website. Canberra's cost of living for international students is approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, food, and transport, but this varies widely. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
English language requirements for this course vary by provider and course level. Typically, a Masters Degree (Research) requires an IELTS overall band score of 6.0–7.0 (or equivalent) with no band less than 6.0. Prior qualifications expected include a Bachelor's degree with Honours (AQF Level 8) in a relevant field such as Earth Sciences, Geology, or Environmental Science, or a Master's degree (AQF Level 9) in a related discipline. Some providers may accept equivalent research experience. Foundation or pathway options are not specifically associated with this course; refer to Australian National University for alternative entry pathways. Always confirm specific requirements with the institution before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work must not compromise your study commitments. For detailed work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's national capital and a vibrant student city with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse international student population of more than 15,000. The ANU campus is located in the suburb of Acton, easily accessible by public transport including buses and light rail. The city offers a high quality of life with numerous cultural institutions, parks, and a low crime rate. Indicative weekly living costs in Canberra include rent (shared accommodation) A$200–350, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$30–50. Students can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and natural attractions.
International students enrolled in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, providing evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintaining valid health insurance. Under the Student visa, you are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also comply with course enrolment conditions and maintain satisfactory academic progress. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personalised visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Canberra offers a unique study experience with a focus on research and government. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Canberra is home to top universities like ANU, the University of Canberra, and several colleges. The city has a student population of around 50,000, creating a vibrant campus atmosphere. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging A$250–400 for a room in a shared house. Public transport is reliable and student discounts are available. Canberra's strong job market in public service and research provides opportunities for graduates. However, the city is smaller and quieter than major capitals, which may appeal to those seeking a focused academic environment.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) at Australian National University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C) and this course (048398K) are registered. Filter by study level, field, and location to find suitable options. HeadStart Academy provides free access to this data.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ANU's admissions website to review specific entry requirements, including academic transcripts, English language test scores, and research proposals. Submit your application before the deadline. Some courses may require additional interviews or documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online. Ensure you have OSHC, evidence of funds, and meet the GTE requirement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Ready to apply? Follow the three-step guide above and contact Australian National University for detailed admissions information.
All Masters Degree (Research) courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Master of Philosophy (Research School of Earth Sciences) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. 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.