Master of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 050329E) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years. This research-focused program is designed for students who want to deepen their knowledge of nursing science and contribute to evidence-based practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00917K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Western Sydney University is a public university with multiple campuses across Greater Western Sydney, offering excellent facilities and industry connections. This page provides everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, visa conditions, and how to apply. HeadStart Academy brings you official CRICOS data to help you plan your study in Australia with confidence.
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Master of Philosophy (Nursing) (CRICOS course code 050329E) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years (104 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 06 – Health, specifically 0603 – Nursing, with a focus on General Nursing (060301). This research degree prepares students to conduct independent research in nursing, often leading to further doctoral study or advanced roles in healthcare, education, or policy. The language of instruction is English. No dual qualification or foundation studies are included. The course is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) is a government-funded public university with a strong reputation for nursing and health research.
As a research masters in nursing, you will engage in supervised research that contributes new knowledge to nursing practice, healthcare delivery, or health policy. The field of education (060301 General Nursing) covers core areas such as patient care, health assessment, clinical decision-making, and health systems. While specific research topics vary by supervisor, graduates typically develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and academic writing. This level of study (Masters Degree Research) emphasises independent inquiry and the production of a thesis. You will work closely with academic staff at Western Sydney University, which has active research groups in areas like chronic disease, aged care, mental health, and Indigenous health. International students benefit from exposure to Australia's diverse healthcare environment.
The Master of Philosophy (Nursing) is a 2-year full-time program, equating to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. As a research degree, you will primarily work on your thesis with supervision. Some coursework components may be included at the university's discretion, but the core is independent research. Students must maintain satisfactory progress according to university policies. The duration may be extended if part-time study is permitted (though international students are generally required to study full-time). Contact Western Sydney University for specific study mode options.
Course fees shown are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change. For the Master of Philosophy (Nursing) at Western Sydney University, the indicative tuition fee is A$67,232. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$600. The estimated total fee is A$67,832. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. To get accurate, up-to-date fees, always check Western Sydney University's official website (www.westernsydney.edu.au). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average; for example, weekly rent for a single person ranges from A$300–A$500, groceries around A$80–A$150, and public transport A$200–A$300 per month. These are estimates only.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters by Research, most universities require an overall IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 with no band below 6.0–6.5. Prior qualifications: applicants generally need a bachelor's degree in nursing (or equivalent) with a strong academic record. Some research experience or a coursework master's may be beneficial. Western Sydney University will assess each application individually, including research proposal and supervisor availability. Foundation or pathway options: If you do not meet direct entry, consider a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in Nursing or a pre-masters program. Always refer to the provider's website for exact requirements. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered; ensure you meet the specific entry criteria before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, during your studies, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, under Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Work experience or clinical placements are not built into this research degree. If you seek practical experience, consider volunteering or part-time work in healthcare settings (subject to visa restrictions). Always check visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at six Western Sydney University campuses across Greater Western Sydney, New South Wales. These are: Bankstown City (Bankstown, NSW), Campbelltown (Campbelltown, NSW), Hawkesbury (Richmond, NSW), Liverpool (Liverpool, NSW), Parramatta (Parramatta, NSW), and Penrith (Kingswood, NSW). Greater Sydney has a large international student community (over 200,000 students), and each campus offers access to research facilities, libraries, and support services. Public transport connects all campuses to Sydney CBD. Living costs vary by suburb; areas like Parramatta and Liverpool have lower rent than the city centre (approx. A$250–A$400 per week for a room). Western Sydney offers a more affordable cost of living compared to central Sydney, with good transport links via train and bus.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, hold valid OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Financial capacity: you must show you can cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including refund policies and complaint processes. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your course meets Australian standards.
Applying for Master of Philosophy (Nursing) at Western Sydney University involves three clear steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses like this one. Filter by course level, field, and city to find your fit. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Western Sydney University's website to review entry requirements (including English test scores and academic transcripts), prepare a 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, the university will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and evidence of financial capacity. Keep copies of all documents. For personalised support, consult a registered education agent or reach out to Western Sydney University's international admissions team.
Begin your research journey with HeadStart Academy — explore more CRICOS-registered courses in Nursing at /study/health/parramatta or contact Western Sydney University directly.
Master of Philosophy (Nursing) 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.