Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce (CRICOS course code 061949G) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who want to contribute original knowledge in the fields of economics, commerce, and related disciplines. CRICOS registration ensures that international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act and that the course meets Australian quality standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate this landscape. As a free, independent resource, we provide accurate data 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 - Economics and Commerce is a 2-year (104 weeks) research degree at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), a leading public university located in Parkville, Victoria. The course falls under the field of Philosophy and Religious Studies (091701 - Philosophy) and is classified as a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9. Students undertake a supervised research project culminating in a thesis. This course is ideal for those seeking a pathway to a PhD or careers in research, academia, or high-level policy analysis. The University of Melbourne is CRICOS-registered (00116K), ensuring all international students are covered by the ESOS Act protections.
As a research degree, the Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce does not follow a taught coursework structure. Instead, students work closely with a supervisor to develop a research proposal, conduct original research, and write a thesis. The program develops advanced skills in critical analysis, research methodologies, and scholarly writing. Graduates are prepared for further research (PhD) or roles in economic policy, financial analysis, and consultancy. The specific research topics may include applied microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international trade, or behavioural economics, depending on the supervisor's expertise. The University of Melbourne has strong research centres in economics and commerce, providing a rich intellectual environment.
The standard duration for this course is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is conducted full-time on campus at the Parkville campus. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. As a research degree, students are expected to dedicate significant time to independent study and research. The University of Melbourne offers access to extensive library resources, research databases, and supervisory support.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce is A$128,084 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as course materials, thesis binding, and optional activities. The estimated total is A$128,084. Important: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at approximately A$21,000–A$27,000 per year for a single student, covering rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with The University of Melbourne at unimelb.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider. For the Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce, The University of Melbourne typically expects an IELTS overall score of 7.0 (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: applicants should hold an honours degree or a master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., economics, commerce, finance) with a research component. A strong academic record and research proposal are essential. Some applicants may be required to complete a research preparatory program. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this research degree; however, The University of Melbourne offers a Graduate Diploma in Economics for those needing to meet academic prerequisites. Always check the university's website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary work or paid work subject to visa conditions. Students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The University of Melbourne's Career Centre and the Melbourne Graduate School of Education offer resources for finding part-time work related to research and teaching.
The Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce is delivered at The University of Melbourne — Parkville, VIC. Parkville is a major research and education precinct located just north of Melbourne's central business district. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 students across multiple universities and colleges. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses), and a cost of living that is moderate compared to Sydney. The campus is easily accessible via tram routes 19, 59, and 67, as well as Melbourne Central and Flagstaff train stations. For international students, living in Melbourne provides access to a diverse community and strong support networks.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied. You will need to provide evidence of English proficiency, financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and health insurance. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. As of 2024, student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination for international students. It consistently ranks in the world's top student cities due to its multicultural environment, quality of life, and strong job market. The cost of living in Melbourne is approximately A$1,500–A$2,200 per month for a single person, including rent (A$1,000–A$1,500 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city), groceries (A$400–A$600), and transport (A$100–A$200). The city has a robust public transport system with a myki card covering trams, trains, and buses. With over 10 CRICOS-registered providers in the city, Melbourne offers diverse study options. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals before deciding.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb): 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's search tools to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that the course and provider are CRICOS-registered (code 061949G and 00116K). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements (including English language test scores) and submit your application through the University's online portal. Prepare a research proposal and arrange for academic transcripts. Note application deadlines. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. After visa grant, you can plan your travel to Melbourne.
Discover more about studying this research degree at The University of Melbourne on their official website, or use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare similar courses.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Philosophy - Economics and Commerce is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.