Master of Philosophy (Laws) (CRICOS course code 050318G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years. This research-intensive program falls under the field of Society and Culture (0909 - Law) and is designed for students seeking to deepen their expertise in legal studies through independent research. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00917K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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The Master of Philosophy (Laws) is a research degree at AQF Level 9, offered by Western Sydney University. This program allows students to conduct original research under supervision, culminating in a thesis. It is ideal for those pursuing careers in academia, policy, or advanced legal practice. The course is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) full-time, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards and access to the Overseas Student Ombudsman.
As a Masters Degree (Research) in Law, students engage in advanced research methodologies, legal theory, and a substantial research project in their chosen area of law. The field of education (090900 Law, n.f.d.) encompasses a broad range of legal topics, from commercial law to human rights. Graduates develop critical analysis, independent research, and scholarly writing skills. While the specific syllabus is set by Western Sydney University, typical research areas include international law, criminal justice, and legal philosophy. This program is designed to produce graduates who can contribute new knowledge to the legal field.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Laws) has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is offered on a full-time basis, and the language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$65,456, with non-tuition fees of A$600, giving an estimated total of A$66,056. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check Western Sydney University's website. Australia's cost of living varies by city; for example, weekly rent in Parramatta averages A$250–350, with groceries around A$80–120 and transport A$30–50.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Master's by research, Western Sydney University usually requires a relevant bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree, plus evidence of research capability. Applicants should check specific entry criteria on the provider's website. Foundation or pathway options may be available — refer to the provider for details.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Master of Philosophy (Laws) is delivered at five Western Sydney University campuses in New South Wales: Bankstown City (Bankstown), Campbelltown (Campbelltown), Liverpool (Liverpool), Parramatta (Parramatta), and Penrith (Kingswood). All are well-connected by public transport. Parramatta, for instance, has a large student population and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Studying in NSW offers access to a vibrant legal community and career opportunities in Sydney's legal market.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language proficiency. OSHC is mandatory and covers medical care. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personal visa advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Master of Philosophy (Laws) at Western Sydney University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare Western Sydney University with other law research programs across Australia. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Western Sydney University's website to review entry requirements (including English test scores like IELTS), prepare your research proposal, and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your student visa at homeaffairs.gov.au. Ensure you have OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
New South Wales is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 3,000 law-related courses. Sydney's legal sector is Australia's largest, with opportunities in top-tier firms, government, and community legal centres. The cost of living in NSW is higher than other states; weekly rent in Sydney suburbs like Parramatta averages A$250–350, while groceries and transport add about A$150–200. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. Research degrees like the Master of Philosophy (Laws) are ideal if you aim for a PhD or a career in legal research.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore Master of Philosophy (Laws) at Western Sydney University today. Begin by checking the CRICOS register for the latest details.
Master of Philosophy (Laws) 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.