Master of Philosophy (Humanities) (CRICOS course code 050312C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years. This research-intensive program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (090000), allowing students to investigate original questions in the humanities while gaining advanced research skills. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00917K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. With six delivery locations across Greater Western Sydney — from Bankstown to Penrith — this degree offers flexibility for students seeking a world-class research environment in one of Australia's fastest-growing regions.
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Master of Philosophy (Humanities) (CRICOS course code 050312C) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by Western Sydney University. The course is designed for students who wish to conduct supervised research in a humanities discipline, leading to a thesis of up to 40,000 words. The field of education is 090000 Society and Culture, n.f.d., which encompasses a wide range of humanities subjects including history, philosophy, literature, cultural studies, and more. Western Sydney University is a public research university with a strong reputation in humanities research, offering access to experienced supervisors and research centres. International students benefit from the full suite of student support services, including English language assistance, academic skills workshops, and dedicated research training programs. This course is ideal for those aiming for a PhD or careers in research, education, policy, or cultural institutions.
As a research degree, the Master of Philosophy (Humanities) does not follow a taught curriculum but instead requires students to complete a substantial research project under expert supervision. Students will develop advanced skills in research design, critical analysis, academic writing, and scholarly communication. The field of Society and Culture is broad, so your research topic could span areas such as Australian history, Asian studies, philosophy of mind, gender studies, or digital humanities. You will be expected to attend seminars, engage with the research community, and produce a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. Western Sydney University's research strengths include the Institute for Culture and Society, the Centre for Western Sydney, and the Writing and Society Research Centre.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies component. Students are expected to be enrolled on a full-time basis to comply with student visa conditions. The program allows for some flexibility, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory progress. Part-time study is generally not permitted on a Student visa (Subclass 500) unless exceptional circumstances apply.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$67,456. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$600, bringing the estimated total cost to A$68,056. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. For the most current fees, always check the official Western Sydney University website or contact the institution directly. Fees are set by the provider and are subject to change. The CRICOS register serves as a reliable starting point for fee comparisons, but you should verify exact amounts before applying.
Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy (Humanities) vary by provider and research area, but typical expectations include: a Bachelor degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a four-year degree with a research component, or a Masters degree with some research training. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency — for Western Sydney University, this usually means an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0 (or equivalent). Some research areas may require higher scores. International students should also check specific academic prerequisites and any required research proposal or interview. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for those who do not meet direct entry; consult the provider for options. As a CRICOS-registered course, all entry conditions must be satisfied before a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) can be issued.
No work component — this course does not include a mandatory work component as part of the program. 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, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs but should not compromise research progress.
This course is delivered across six campuses of Western Sydney University: Bankstown City (Bankstown, NSW), Campbelltown (Campbelltown, NSW), Hawkesbury (Richmond, NSW), Liverpool (Liverpool, NSW), Parramatta (Parramatta, NSW), and Penrith (Kingswood, NSW). All locations are in Greater Western Sydney, a region with a large and diverse student population. Each campus offers research facilities, libraries, and supervision. For example, the Parramatta campus is near public transport and the Parramatta CBD, while the Hawkesbury campus is in a semi-rural setting. Students can choose a location convenient for their living arrangements or supervisor availability.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions require full-time enrolment in a registered course, valid OSHC, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required at visa application. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring that your course meets Australian standards. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Humanities) at Western Sydney University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and city (Sydney/Western Sydney) to confirm Western Sydney University meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines on the university website. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, Western Sydney University will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application, ensuring you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore Master of Philosophy (Humanities) at Western Sydney University and take the next step toward your postgraduate goals.
Master of Philosophy (Humanities) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney 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.