Master of Philosophy - Victorian College of Arts (CRICOS course code 061968E) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This program falls under Field of Education 0917 - Philosophy and Religious Studies, specifically 091701 - Philosophy. As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it prepares graduates for advanced research careers or further doctoral study. The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) is a public research university consistently ranked among the top universities globally. This course is delivered at the Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, in the vibrant arts precinct of Melbourne. Students benefit from access to world-class faculty, libraries, and research facilities. Whether you aim to contribute to philosophical discourse or pursue interdisciplinary research, this degree offers a rigorous foundation. All information provided is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping international students find and compare over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,500+ providers.
As a Masters Degree (Research) in Philosophy, you will undertake a sustained investigation of a specific philosophical problem, question, or field. Typical research areas include ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, logic, and the history of philosophy. The program emphasizes independent research under the supervision of an academic expert. You will develop advanced skills in critical analysis, argumentation, and scholarly writing. The field of Philosophy (091701) encompasses both Western and Eastern traditions, political philosophy, and philosophy of science. Graduates are expected to produce a thesis of approximately 40,000 words that makes an original contribution to knowledge. This course does not include taught coursework modules; it is purely research-focused. For detailed research areas, consult the provider's website.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) for this course. Study is full-time, and the language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—there is no dual degree or embedded foundation program. Students are expected to maintain satisfactory progress throughout the research period. The University of Melbourne may offer part-time options for domestic students, but international students must generally enroll full-time to meet visa conditions. Check with the provider for specific study mode availability.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy - Victorian College of Arts is A$36,832 per year (total estimated tuition A$73,664 for 2 years? Wait, the provided total is A$36,832 total? The data says Tuition: A$36,832, Non-tuition: A$0, Estimated total: A$36,832. That seems per year or total? Usually CRICOS shows annual fees. The estimated total is A$36,832, so likely the total for the course? But duration is 2 years. I'll state: Indicative total tuition A$36,832 (as per CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees are A$0, but students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (estimated A$21,041 per year in Melbourne), and the visa application charge (currently A$710). These costs are not included in the indicative total. Fees are set by The University of Melbourne and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/.
Admission to a Masters Degree (Research) typically requires a four-year bachelor's degree with a substantial research component, or a master's degree by coursework with a minimum grade average. Prior study in philosophy or a related discipline is expected. English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent. The University of Melbourne may have specific prerequisites. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this level. Applicants should check the provider's website for detailed entry criteria. Note: Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited and competitive.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not linked to the curriculum.
This course is delivered at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank (Southbank campus), in the suburb of Southbank, Victoria. Southbank is a cultural hub in Melbourne, home to the Arts Centre, galleries, and theatres. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city with a student population of over 250,000 international students across more than 60 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is well served by public transport, including trams and trains. Weekly rent in Melbourne averages A$300–A$450 for a share house or A$500–A$700 for a one-bedroom apartment (indicative). Other living costs: groceries A$80–A$120 per week, transport A$40–A$50 per week with a myki pass.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: (1) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, (2) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement demonstrating a genuine intention to study, (3) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and (4) financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Living cost requirement: A$21,041 per year (from July 2025). Visa application charge: A$710 (from July 2025). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight. Visa conditions vary—always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for advice.
Follow these three steps to secure your place in this course: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) is registered to deliver this course. You can filter by course level, field, and city. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to The University of Melbourne, including all required documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, references). Check application deadlines and entry requirements on the provider's website. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Then apply online for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply well in advance.
Ready to apply? Visit The University of Melbourne website for application deadlines and entry requirements.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Philosophy - Victorian College of Arts 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.