Master of Regional Planning by Research (CRICOS course code 070697D) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This program sits within the field of Architecture and Building, specifically Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103). As a research degree, it equips students with advanced skills to analyse and shape regional development, land use, and sustainability. University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D) is a government-funded institution with campuses in Petrie and Sippy Downs, Queensland. The course is CRICOS-registered, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. Whether you aim to work in government, consulting, or academia, this degree provides a pathway to expertise in regional planning. HeadStart Academy features this course as part of its comprehensive database of 26,433 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,556 providers. Note that fees and conditions are indicative; always confirm with the provider.
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The Master of Regional Planning by Research (070697D) is a 2-year full-time research degree offered by the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC). It is classified as a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9 and falls under the broad field of Architecture and Building, specialising in Urban Design and Regional Planning. As a research program, students undertake a supervised thesis project that contributes new knowledge to regional planning. This course is ideal for graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of regional development, environmental planning, and community engagement. UniSC delivers this program from two Queensland locations: UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs. Both campuses are well-connected by public transport and offer modern research facilities. International students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and support. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), so you can trust the accuracy of CRICOS course code 070697D and provider details.
This research degree focuses on advanced concepts in regional planning, including land-use policy, sustainable development, transport planning, and environmental management. Students will develop skills in research design, data analysis, and policy evaluation. The program typically involves coursework in research methods followed by a substantial thesis. Graduates emerge with the ability to critically assess planning problems and propose evidence-based solutions. While specific subjects vary by supervisor and research topic, common areas include regional economic development, urban ecology, and community participation. This level of study prepares students for leadership roles in government agencies, private consultancies, or further PhD research. The field of Urban Design and Regional Planning is growing in Australia, with increasing demand for professionals who can balance growth with sustainability. Queensland, particularly the Sunshine Coast region, offers a unique living laboratory for planning research, with rapid population growth and environmental pressures. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you compare similar courses across Australia.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Regional Planning by Research has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree. There is no foundation studies component or VET national code, as it is a higher education research degree. Students are expected to be on campus for supervision and access to facilities, though some components may be flexible. The 2-year timeframe is standard for a research masters in Australia, allowing sufficient time for a comprehensive thesis. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The program is offered at two locations: UniSC Moreton Bay and UniSC Sunshine Coast. Both campuses provide dedicated research spaces, libraries, and IT support. HeadStart Academy notes that study modes are subject to change, so check with UniSC for the latest delivery arrangements.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 2-year program is A$65,000. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning this figure covers tuition only. The estimated total cost is therefore A$65,000. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$500–700 per year. Living costs vary by location: in Petrie or Sippy Downs, indicative weekly expenses are roughly A$350–500 for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. These are estimates only. Always confirm current fees directly with University of the Sunshine Coast via their website (www.usc.edu.au). HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees from the CRICOS register as at April 2026; institutions set final fees and may adjust them. Remember that ESOS Act protections apply, including fee refund policies for course changes.
Entry requirements for research degrees vary by provider. For this Masters by Research, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or equivalent in a relevant field such as planning, geography, or environmental science. A minimum GPA or equivalent may be required. English language proficiency is essential: universities generally ask for an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent, though some accept 6.0 for certain programs. Check UniSC's specific requirements. Foundation or pathway programs are not listed for this course, but UniSC offers English language support and possible bridging programs. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting the provider directly and, for visa advice, a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. All data is sourced from CRICOS; registration status can change.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a research degree focused on thesis work rather than internships or placements. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable professional experience alongside study. While not required, students may seek voluntary research assistant positions or industry collaborations. The absence of a work component does not limit opportunities for practical engagement, as the thesis itself often involves fieldwork or industry partnerships. Always verify visa work rights with the Department of Home Affairs, as conditions may change. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
The Master of Regional Planning by Research is delivered at two campuses: UniSC Moreton Bay in Petrie, QLD, and UniSC Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs, QLD. Petrie is a suburb of Brisbane's northern growth corridor, about 30 km from the CBD. The Moreton Bay campus is accessible via train (Petrie station) and bus, with ample parking. Sippy Downs is located near the Sunshine Coast hinterland, about 100 km north of Brisbane. It is served by bus routes and is close to major shopping and residential areas. Both campuses offer modern learning environments, libraries, and research facilities. The Sunshine Coast region has a growing population, with over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers in Queensland (statewide). Living costs in the Sunshine Coast area are moderately lower than Brisbane's CBD, with indicative weekly rent around A$350–450 for a share house. HeadStart Academy's location data helps you compare study destinations.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UniSC, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. As of 2026, the visa application charge is approximately A$710 (subject to change). OSHC must be arranged for the duration of stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays. To maintain visa compliance, students must attend at least 80% of classes and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The ESOS Act provides protections, including access to the Tuition Protection Service if the provider fails. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Regional Planning by Research at University of the Sunshine Coast: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters by Research), field (Urban Design and Regional Planning), and location (Queensland). Confirm that UniSC is the right fit for your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the UniSC website (www.usc.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and referee reports. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UniSC approves your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a GTE statement. Start early to allow processing time.
A research degree demands self-motivation and a clear research question. Consider whether you prefer independent study over coursework. Regional planning is a field with strong job prospects in Australia, especially in growing regions like Queensland. Think about the specific research strengths of UniSC's supervisors. The Sunshine Coast region offers a unique environment for studying urban growth and environmental planning. Also factor in living costs and lifestyle: Petrie and Sippy Downs provide a balance of urban and natural settings. International students should assess visa conditions and the GTE requirement. HeadStart Academy recommends attending virtual open days and contacting potential supervisors. With over 26,000 courses available, you can compare similar programs across Australia. Remember that all providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and protections under the ESOS Act.
Start your journey with a CRICOS-registered course today. Browse more Masters by Research degrees in Queensland on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Regional Planning by Research is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.