Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) (CRICOS course code 064240K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in human sciences. Macquarie University, a government-funded institution with CRICOS code 00002J, is located at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. This page provides an indicative overview of fees, entry expectations, and visa requirements for international students considering this program. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) (CRICOS course code 064240K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This course belongs to the field of education '12 - Mixed Field Programmes' (specifically 129999 - Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c.), which indicates an interdisciplinary approach combining elements from various study areas. As a research degree, students are expected to undertake a substantial original research project under supervision, culminating in a thesis. Macquarie University is a well-known public research university in Sydney, with a strong reputation in the humanities and sciences. The course is offered at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, a major university campus with excellent facilities and library resources. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this program is one of many research pathways available to international students.
The Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) falls under the broad category of Mixed Field Programmes, which are interdisciplinary by nature. Human sciences encompass fields such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, and public health, often focusing on human behaviour, society, and well-being. At the Masters Degree (Research) level, students typically engage in advanced coursework in research methodologies and then undertake a supervised research project that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates develop skills in critical analysis, data collection and interpretation, academic writing, and project management. This qualification can lead to careers in academia, research institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organisations. Because the course is research-focused, students have the flexibility to tailor their project to their specific interests within human sciences, subject to supervisor availability.
The Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, on-campus program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component; it is a single, standalone degree. The language of instruction is English, so international students must demonstrate English proficiency as part of the admission process. The course does not include a mandatory work component, meaning students are not required to undertake workplace training as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The campus is located at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, approximately 15 km from Sydney CBD, with good public transport links including the Macquarie Park Metro station.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for the entire Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) program is A$70,852. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning all compulsory course costs are included in the tuition. The estimated total fee is therefore A$70,852. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international student visa holders and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Additionally, living expenses in Sydney (where the campus is located) are estimated at around A$30,000–A$35,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other personal costs. The student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) is also not included. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change – always confirm current fees directly with Macquarie University before applying.
Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) are determined by Macquarie University. As a general guide for Masters by Research programs, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a related field, with a strong academic record. Some universities require a minimum GPA or research experience. English language proficiency is also required; while specific scores are set by each provider, typical IELTS requirements for Masters level range from 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0. Some programs may accept TOEFL, PTE Academic, or other tests. For students who do not meet direct entry requirements, pathway options such as a Graduate Diploma or Pre-Masters program may be available – check with Macquarie University for details. HeadStart Academy advises all applicants to verify exact entry requirements with the institution, as they can change. Consult a registered migration agent for visa-related questions.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) is a research-only degree, meaning there is no embedded internship, placement, or work experience requirement. However, student visa holders are permitted to work in Australia while studying. With a Student visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during officially scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs, but it is important to balance work with study commitments. Remember that work rights are tied to visa conditions – always comply with Department of Home Affairs rules. For more details, see the student visa guidance below.
The Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) is delivered at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. The address is Macquarie University, NSW 2109. This campus is located in Sydney's North Shore region, approximately 15 km from the city centre. The area is well served by public transport – the Macquarie Park Metro station connects directly to the CBD, and buses serve the campus. Sydney is Australia's largest city, with a vibrant multicultural population and a strong economy. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$300–A$600 for a room or studio), groceries (A$80–A$120), and transport (A$30–A$50). There are over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney, offering thousands of courses across all study levels. The campus itself features modern libraries, research centres, and student support services.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, evidence of English proficiency (if required), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year from October 2024), and OSHC for the duration of the visa. OSHC provides medical insurance and must be arranged before visa grant. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. Your partner and dependent children can also accompany you. Remember that all courses must be CRICOS-registered; this course is registered, ensuring you meet visa requirements. Always check the latest visa processing times and conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Applying for the Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) at Macquarie University involves three key steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (NSW). Compare providers and shortlist Macquarie University. Second, apply directly to your chosen institution by meeting entry requirements: submit academic transcripts, English test scores, a research proposal, and any other documents requested. Check application deadlines (typically multiple intakes per year). Third, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence. Once visa is granted, you can plan your travel and accommodation. HeadStart Academy provides free information to guide you, but we do not process applications – contact the university directly for current application procedures.
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Master of Philosophy (Human Sciences - Low Cost) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.