Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) (CRICOS course code 064990E) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This research-focused program is designed for social work professionals seeking to deepen their expertise through independent investigation and thesis work. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00116K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Located at the Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria, students benefit from world-class research facilities and supervision from leading academics. This page provides authoritative information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you evaluate if this course aligns with your study and career goals.
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Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) (CRICOS 064990E) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). This course is classified under Field of Education 090501 Social Work, within the broader field of Society and Culture. The program is offered in English over 104 weeks (2 years) and leads to a single qualification. No foundation studies or dual qualification options are available. There is no mandatory work component. The University of Melbourne is a government-owned institution and one of Australia's leading research universities, consistently ranked among the top globally. This course is ideal for individuals aiming to pursue advanced research in social work practice, policy, or theory.
As a research master's in social work, the program focuses on developing advanced research skills and knowledge in human welfare studies and services. Students typically engage in supervised research projects, literature reviews, and thesis preparation. The field covers themes such as social policy analysis, community development, and intervention strategies. Graduates of research master's programs are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, independent inquiry, and the ability to contribute new insights to the social work profession. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider, the CRICOS register indicates this course is a full-time research degree aimed at producing high-quality research outputs. The emphasis is on producing a thesis that advances professional practice and knowledge in social work.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The course is delivered in English and is classified as a single qualification. No foundation studies or work component are included. Students are expected to pursue full-time study, as research degrees typically require consistent engagement with supervisors and research activities. The language of instruction is English, and international students must demonstrate English proficiency as part of admission. This course does not offer a dual qualification or concurrent diploma option.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) is A$128,084, sourced from the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$150, bringing the total to approximately A$128,234. These fees are subject to change and are set by the institution. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs in Melbourne (indicative weekly rent A$250–500, groceries A$80–150, public transport A$40–60), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm the latest fees directly with The University of Melbourne at unimelb.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a free resource; no guarantees are implied.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a research master's in social work, a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field is generally expected, often with honours or a substantial research component. Some universities may require prior research experience or a thesis proposal. The University of Melbourne sets specific entry criteria; applicants should review the course page on the provider's website. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry — contact the university for details. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as a practicum, internship, or placement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods) to gain professional experience, subject to visa conditions. Any work is optional and not assessed as part of the course.
The Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a suburb close to Melbourne's city centre, home to a large student population and excellent public transport links (trams, trains, buses). Melbourne has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and the highest density of international students in Australia. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse housing options, and a relatively high cost of living compared to other Australian cities. The Parkville campus is well-served by the University of Melbourne's student services, libraries, and research centres.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and part-time work (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate that you intend to stay temporarily for study purposes. You will also need to show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements — always check the latest on homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Applying for this course involves three key steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Social Work), and location (Victoria). Verify that The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) offers the course you need. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check the entry requirements, including English language test scores and prior qualifications. Prepare your supporting documents (transcripts, research proposal, references) and submit your application through the university's online portal. Deadlines vary — plan ahead. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and commence your studies.
Ready to apply? Start by checking CRICOS registration and then apply directly to The University of Melbourne. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) 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.