Master of Philosophy - Medicine (CRICOS course code 061956J) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This research-intensive program allows students to explore philosophical dimensions of medicine, contributing to knowledge in bioethics, medical epistemology, and healthcare decision-making. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00116K), it meets rigorous Australian quality standards and is open to international students under the ESOS Act. Based at UniMelb's Parkville campus in Melbourne—a global education hub with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers—the program provides access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant academic community. Whether you aim to advance your career in medical research, policy, or academia, this degree offers a pathway to deepen your understanding of medicine's foundational questions.
Master of Philosophy - Medicine is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, focusing on the intersection of philosophy and medicine. The course code 061956J is listed on the official CRICOS register (April 2026), confirming its approval for international student enrolment. The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) is a public research university consistently ranked among the world's top institutions. The program runs over 2 years (104 weeks) in English, and is delivered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation options. As a research degree, it involves independent investigation under supervision, culminating in a thesis. This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (subfield '091701 - Philosophy'), reflecting its humanities-based approach to medical questions.
Students in this program engage with philosophical issues that arise in medical practice and research. Typical learning outcomes include advanced critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the ability to construct and defend complex arguments. The curriculum covers topics such as the nature of disease, patient autonomy, evidence-based medicine, and the philosophy of science. Graduates develop skills in qualitative research, academic writing, and presentation, preparing them for doctoral studies or roles in healthcare ethics committees, medical education, or policy. While specific syllabi are set by UniMelb, the AQF Level 9 framework ensures graduates demonstrate mastery of a specialised field. The program is research-only, with no coursework components, allowing deep immersion in a chosen topic.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$128,084 (total over 2 years), with non-tuition fees set at A$0, giving an estimated total of A$128,084. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change—always confirm with The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) at http://www.unimelb.edu.au/ before applying. Additionally, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent in Melbourne averages A$250-400/week for shared accommodation), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees through the Tuition Protection Service, ensuring a refund or alternative placement if your provider fails to deliver.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy - Medicine are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). Generally, applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree (typically with honours) or equivalent research experience. English language proficiency is required—most Australian universities accept IELTS with scores of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent) for research master's programs. Some providers may require a research proposal or interview. No foundation studies are offered for this level. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for detailed prerequisites and deadlines. You can view UniMelb's profile at /institutions/00116K/the-university-of-melbourne-unimelb for more information.
This course has no mandatory work component, meaning it does not include a placement or internship. Delivery is at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria (postcode 3010). Parkville is a major education precinct in inner-city Melbourne, home to several universities and research hospitals. Melbourne has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population exceeding 250,000, offering a multicultural environment with excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting campuses. Living costs are higher than the national average—indicative weekly rent for a student is A$300-450, groceries A$80-120, and transport A$40-60. The city is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable, with diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.
International students enrolled in this course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows study at a CRICOS-registered provider. Key conditions: you must maintain enrolment, meet attendance and progress requirements, and hold OSHC for the visa duration. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required at application. HeadStart Academy is not a MARA agent—consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. For more details, visit our student visa guide at /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy - Medicine at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level (Masters Degree Research) and field (Philosophy) on our site to confirm this course meets your goals. Check UniMelb's profile at /institutions/00116K/the-university-of-melbourne-unimelb. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application via UniMelb's online portal, including academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), a research proposal, and letters of reference. Deadlines vary by intake. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa, paying the visa fee and arranging OSHC. Refer to our visa guide at /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Ready to apply? Follow the steps above or visit The University of Melbourne's website to start your application.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Philosophy - Medicine 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.