Master of Philosophy (Arts) (CRICOS course code 072075G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Adelaide (Adelaide) over 2 years. This research-focused program is ideal for students seeking to deepen their expertise in society and culture disciplines. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00123M), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Adelaide is a Group of Eight university, consistently ranked among the world's top 100. Students benefit from access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant academic community in Adelaide, South Australia. The course is delivered at the North Terrace campus, in the heart of Adelaide's cultural precinct. With an indicative total fee of A$89,000, this program offers a pathway to advanced research careers or further doctoral study. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and quality education.
Master of Philosophy (Arts) is a research-intensive Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9. It is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a substantial research project in the field of Society and Culture (broad field 090000). The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is taught entirely in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. As a single qualification, students focus entirely on their research thesis under the supervision of experienced academics. The University of Adelaide, a government-run institution established in 1874, has a strong reputation for research output and graduate employability. With over 29,000 students including 8,000 international students, it offers a diverse and supportive environment.
As a Masters Degree (Research), this program does not have a prescribed coursework syllabus. Instead, students develop a research proposal and complete a supervised thesis of approximately 40,000-50,000 words. The field of education is Society and Culture, which encompasses disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. Graduates typically acquire advanced research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to contribute original knowledge to their field. The University of Adelaide's Faculty of Arts offers expertise in a wide range of areas, allowing students to tailor their research to their interests. This level of study prepares graduates for academic careers, policy roles, or further doctoral studies.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as registered with CRICOS. Study is full-time and research-based, with no formal coursework or work component. The language of instruction is English. International students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. There is no option for part-time study for international students on a Subclass 500 visa. The University of Adelaide provides excellent research facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and dedicated workspaces for graduate researchers. Supervisors are assigned based on the student's research topic.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Philosophy (Arts) is A$89,000 total, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. The estimated total fee is A$89,000. Please note: these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always refer to The University of Adelaide's official website. Adelaide's cost of living is relatively affordable compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300-A$400, groceries A$80-A$120, and public transport A$40-A$60.
Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy (Arts) typically include a Bachelor's degree with Honours (or equivalent) in a relevant field. A minimum GPA of 5.0 (on a 7.0 scale) is often expected. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency — requirements vary but commonly IELTS (Academic) overall 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent. Some research degrees may require a higher score, up to 7.0. Additionally, applicants need to submit a research proposal and secure a supervisor. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable here; students must meet direct entry. Always confirm specific requirements with The University of Adelaide as they may change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research-only program without internships or placements. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain part-time work experience while studying. The University of Adelaide offers career services and job boards to help students find employment.
The course is delivered at The University of Adelaide, North Terrace campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, known for its affordable lifestyle, vibrant arts scene, and strong education sector. The city is home to over 50,000 international students studying at multiple CRICOS-registered providers. The North Terrace campus is located in the city centre, steps from the Adelaide Botanic Garden, museums, and public transport. Students can easily access the campus by bus, tram, or train. Adelaide has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.
International students enrolling in this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. OSHC covers medical and hospital costs; average cost for a single student is around A$500-A$700 per year. The visa also allows work rights as mentioned above. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and refund rights.
Adelaide offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living compared to Australia's east coast capitals. The city has a high quality of life, safe neighbourhoods, and a growing job market. For research students, the University of Adelaide provides extensive library resources, research centres, and collaboration opportunities with local industries. Adelaide's cultural festivals, food scene, and proximity to nature (e.g., Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island) make it an attractive destination. However, winter can be cool and wet. Consider your research interests and whether Adelaide has suitable supervisors and facilities in your specific field. The city has a tight-knit international student community, with support services available at the university.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Arts) at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the course is CRICOS-registered (072075G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit The University of Adelaide's website for entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents, including academic transcripts and research proposal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence.
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Master of Philosophy (Arts) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Adelaide (Adelaide). 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.