Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences (CRICOS course code 061954M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This research-intensive program allows students to conduct independent investigation in psychological sciences, culminating in a thesis. The University of Melbourne, CRICOS-registered (00116K), is a prestigious Group of Eight university located in Parkville, Victoria. With world-class supervision and facilities, students can explore areas like cognitive, developmental, or clinical psychology. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 registered providers offering 26,433 courses. International students are protected by the ESOS Act. Use this page as a starting point to evaluate whether this course aligns with your academic goals.
Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences is a research-focused masters degree that develops advanced skills in empirical research, critical analysis, and scholarly communication. The program is designed for students who wish to pursue a research career or further doctoral studies. The University of Melbourne is a leading Australian university known for its strong research culture. This course is classified under the field of Society and Culture (0917 Philosophy and Religious Studies), but its content is specifically in psychological science. Students benefit from being part of a vibrant research community in Melbourne, a city with over 300,000 students and excellent public transport. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education.
As a research degree, students undertake a significant supervised project that contributes new knowledge to psychological sciences. Typical areas of study may include research methodology, statistical analysis, theoretical frameworks, and specialised topics in psychology. Graduates develop transferable skills in problem-solving, project management, and scientific writing. The program does not prescribe a set curriculum; instead, students work closely with their supervisor to design a research plan. This approach fosters independent thinking and prepares students for leadership roles in academia or industry. The field of education (091701 Philosophy) provides a broad philosophical and ethical grounding, while the psychological sciences focus allows deep exploration of human behaviour and mental processes.
The course is delivered full-time over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification with no dual-degree or integrated foundation studies components. Students are expected to dedicate themselves to research throughout the duration, with regular supervision meetings and milestones. Part-time study may be available by arrangement with the provider, but international students should consult their visa conditions. The research-intensive nature requires a strong commitment to independent study and time management.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences is A$128,084 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$128,084. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Melbourne. They are subject to change, so always confirm current fees on the provider's website. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. In Melbourne, students should budget approximately A$500–700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. OSHC costs vary depending on the provider and coverage level.
Entry requirements for this research degree typically include a four-year bachelor’s degree with honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field, such as psychology, neuroscience, or a related discipline. English language proficiency is required, with most universities expecting IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may require a research proposal or interview. Foundation studies are not applicable. For exact requirements, contact The University of Melbourne directly. International students may also need to demonstrate financial capacity for visa purposes. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's official admissions page.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is purely research-focused, with no placement or internship requirement. Students may, however, engage in part-time work subject to their Student visa conditions (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term). Work experience is not assessed as part of the degree.
Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a major educational and cultural precinct, home to several universities and research institutes. Melbourne, the state capital, offers a diverse and inclusive environment with a large student population (over 300,000). The city has an extensive public transport network of trams, trains, and buses, making the campus accessible. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in Melbourne, offering a wide range of courses. Living costs are higher than the national average, but the city consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable. Students can enjoy a vibrant arts scene, sporting events, and multicultural cuisine.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key visa conditions include: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks; maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay; and satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition refund safeguards. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Applying to study Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences at The University of Melbourne involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers filtered by level, field, and location. 2. Apply directly to The University of Melbourne – check entry requirements, prepare your English test results and academic transcripts, and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll receive a CoE to support your visa application. Ensure you also arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE assessment.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a premier study destination. With over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, students have access to world-class education across all fields. The city's student population exceeds 300,000, creating a diverse and dynamic community. Public transport is efficient, with free tram zones in the city centre. Living costs average A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. Melbourne offers a rich cultural calendar, including festivals, sport, and dining. As a student, you'll benefit from ESOS protections and support services from both the university and the government. Consider whether Melbourne's lifestyle and cost align with your budget and preferences.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more about The University of Melbourne on our provider page, or start your course search on HeadStart Academy.
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Master of Philosophy - Psychological Sciences 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.