Master of Philosophy - Science (CRICOS course code 059027B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This research-intensive program falls under the broad field of Natural and Physical Sciences (010000), offering students the opportunity to pursue original investigation in a specialised area. UNSW, a Group of Eight university, is located in Kensington, Sydney – a vibrant hub for international students with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia and more than 26,000 courses to choose from. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student rights. At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, unbiased information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you plan your study journey.
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This research degree is designed for graduates who wish to deepen their knowledge in the natural and physical sciences through supervised research. While the exact syllabus depends on the research project and supervisor, students typically engage in advanced literature review, experimental or theoretical investigation, data analysis, and thesis writing. Graduates develop critical thinking, independent research skills, and expertise in their chosen field – skills highly valued in academia, industry, and government. UNSW offers world-class facilities and supervisory expertise across disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth sciences, and environmental science. The program aligns with AQF Level 9 outcomes, preparing students for further doctoral study or leadership roles in science.
The Master of Philosophy - Science is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) with no foundation studies component. Students are expected to commit to research activities throughout the year, including scheduled breaks. The program does not include a mandatory work component, but students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods, subject to visa conditions. Flexible supervision arrangements may be available depending on the research area.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 2-year program is A$121,000, sourced from the CRICOS register. Additional non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$123,000. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students in Sydney should budget approximately A$600–$800 per week for rent, A$80–$150 for groceries, and A$40–$60 for public transport. All fees are set by the institution and subject to change – always confirm with UNSW directly.
English language requirements vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the course level. For a Masters Degree (Research) at a top-tier university like UNSW, a higher band (e.g., IELTS 7.0 or equivalent) is common. Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree (Honours or equivalent) with research component. Some students may enter via a Graduate Certificate or Diploma pathway – refer to UNSW's website for specific prerequisites. As this course is research-focused, a research proposal and supervisor endorsement may also be required. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting UNSW's admissions team for the most accurate and current entry criteria.
No work component is included in the Master of Philosophy - Science. The program is entirely research-based, focusing on independent study and thesis preparation. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work as a supplement – up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This provides an opportunity to gain experience and offset living costs while complying with visa conditions. Always check your visa conditions for work rights.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales – Kensington campus in Sydney, New South Wales. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving international student community. Kensington is well-connected by public transport (bus and light rail), with easy access to the city centre, beaches, and cultural attractions. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia, but the city offers excellent job opportunities, diverse social experiences, and world-class education. UNSW's campus features modern research facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the intended stay. OSHC is mandatory and can cost around A$600–$1,000 per year for single cover. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Upon graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) depending on their qualifications. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy - Science at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to confirm course details. HeadStart Academy's free resource lists 26,433 courses across all AQF levels – filter by 'Masters Degree (Research)' and 'Natural and Physical Sciences'. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UNSW's website (www.unsw.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit your application (including academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and supervisor nomination), and adhere to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW issues your CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, financial, and health cover requirements.
New South Wales (NSW) is Australia's most populous state, with Sydney as its capital. It hosts over 600 CRICOS-registered providers and a significant portion of international students. Studying in NSW offers access to world-renowned universities, diverse cultural experiences, and a robust job market. However, living costs in Sydney are high – expect rent around A$600–$800 per week for a studio or shared apartment, and groceries at A$80–$150 weekly. The state's public transport network (trains, buses, ferries) makes commuting manageable. For a research degree like the MPhil Science, UNSW's Kensington campus provides a stimulating environment with cutting-edge labs and research centres. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing NSW.
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Master of Philosophy - Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.