Master of Science in Vision Science (Research) (CRICOS course code 071467K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This program is designed for international students seeking advanced research training in optical science and optometry at one of Australia's leading universities. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this profile as a free resource, with data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you're planning to pursue a PhD or a career in vision research, this page outlines key details: fees, entry requirements, location, and visa pathways. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, and students benefit from ESOS Act protections. Confirm current details with UNSW before applying.
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Master of Science in Vision Science (Research) (CRICOS course code 071467K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This is an AQF Level 9 qualification in the field of Optical Science (060901 - Optometry). The program is research-intensive, allowing students to develop expertise in areas such as visual optics, ocular disease, and vision neuroscience. UNSW is a government-funded university located in Kensington, NSW, and is registered with CRICOS under number 00098G. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UNSW can enrol international students and must comply with the ESOS Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many research masters options available.
The Master of Science in Vision Science (Research) falls under the field of Health (06) with a focus on Optical Science (0609) and specifically Optometry (060901). While the exact curriculum is set by UNSW, research masters degrees typically involve independent research under supervision, a thesis, and possibly coursework in research methods. Students can expect to investigate topics such as visual perception, optical imaging, contact lenses, and eye health. Graduates often pursue PhDs or careers in optometry research, academia, or industry. The program equips students with advanced analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to vision science. No work component is included.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 2 years (104 weeks) for full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). No foundation studies are included. The course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education program. Students are expected to study full-time to maintain their student visa conditions.
From the CRICOS register, indicative tuition fees for this course are A$116,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, services) are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$118,000. These figures are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always confirm directly with UNSW before applying. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fee schedules, visit the UNSW website at www.unsw.edu.au.
Entry requirements are determined by The University of New South Wales (UNSW). For a research masters, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., optometry, vision science, biomedical science) with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required — common minimums are IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), though requirements vary. Some courses may expect IELTS 7.0 or equivalent. UNSW offers pathway programs (e.g., Foundation Studies) for students who do not meet direct entry. Always refer to UNSW's website for specific entry criteria and application deadlines.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington campus, located in Kensington, NSW (a suburb of Sydney). Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community. There are over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney offering thousands of courses. The Kensington campus is approximately 5 km from the city centre, accessible via public transport (bus and light rail). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $500–$700, groceries about $80–$120, and public transport $40–$60 per week. For more information on studying in NSW, see our /states/nsw page.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and comply with visa conditions. For detailed visa information, see our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Science in Vision Science (Research) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW): 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Optical Science), and location (NSW). Verify UNSW's current CRICOS registration. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit UNSW's website to check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any research proposal. Note application deadlines. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once UNSW issues a CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements.
Sydney is a global city with a strong economy and a high quality of life, but it is also one of the most expensive cities in Australia. The University of New South Wales is located in Kensington, close to beaches, parks, and cultural venues. If you enjoy urban living and a vibrant student scene, Sydney is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a lower cost of living or a quieter environment, consider other cities in Australia such as Melbourne or Brisbane. Use our /study/masters-degree-research/nsw page to explore more courses.
Ready to apply? Visit the UNSW website to check current fees and entry requirements, or explore more research masters courses in Australia using our search tool.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Master of Science in Vision Science (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.