Master of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) (CRICOS course code 078205J) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 2 years. This research-intensive program at UWA's Crawley campus allows students to pursue original research in physical and biological sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (078205J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. UWA is a leading Group of Eight university, and this degree prepares graduates for PhD study or research careers in academia, industry, or government. With an indicative total fee of A$105,946, students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approx A$500–600 per week), and the visa application charge. International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) and meet English and academic entry requirements. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses — all listed here for free.
This research degree falls under the broad field of Natural and Physical Sciences (n.e.c.), allowing you to conduct original research in a specific area of physical or biological science. Under the supervision of UWA's leading academics, you will develop advanced research skills, including experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication. The program culminates in a thesis that contributes new knowledge to your chosen discipline. UWA's strengths in marine science, ecology, molecular biology, and geoscience provide rich opportunities for interdisciplinary research. Graduates go on to pursue PhDs or work in research institutes, environmental agencies, and biotechnology companies. While this description is general, you should consult UWA's website for detailed research themes and supervisor profiles.
The Master of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award), and no foundation studies are included. Full-time enrolment is typically required for international students to maintain visa compliance. Some students may extend their candidature with approval, but the standard CRICOS duration reflects the expected completion time. Study mode is on-campus at UWA's Crawley campus, with access to laboratories, libraries, and research facilities.
Tuition fees for this course are set by The University of Western Australia and are subject to change. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), indicative tuition is A$105,200, with non-tuition fees of A$746, giving an estimated total of A$105,946. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs approximately A$600–800 per year, living expenses of around A$500–600 per week, or the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with UWA directly, as institutions revise fees annually. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees as a guide only — no guarantee of exact amount.
Entry to a Masters Degree (Research) typically requires a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a qualification deemed equivalent, with a strong academic record in a relevant field. Applicants may also need to submit a research proposal and demonstrate prior research experience. English language requirements vary by provider and course level; for this program, UWA typically requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. There is no foundation pathway for this research degree. International students should check UWA's website for specific academic and English requirements, as well as application deadlines. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission — places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with your studies. Practical experience may be available through research projects or voluntary placements, but these are not required for course completion.
The Master of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) is delivered at The University of Western Australia's Crawley campus in Perth, Western Australia. Perth is a vibrant city with over 250 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The cost of living in Perth is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–500, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. The Crawley campus is well-connected by bus and train from the city centre. UWA's facilities include modern laboratories, libraries, and research centres, providing an excellent environment for postgraduate research.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and health insurance via Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany you. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, and the ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and study rights. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Perth offers a unique student experience with a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Its lifestyle is more relaxed than eastern capitals, and the cost of living is generally lower. For research students, UWA provides world-class supervision and connections to industry in resources, health, and technology. The city has a strong economy and many opportunities for part-time work. Consider your preference for climate (Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters), time zone (AWST, UTC+8), and distance from home. Perth's international airport connects directly to major Asian and Middle Eastern hubs. If you value a supportive research community and outdoor lifestyle, Perth may be an ideal choice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) at The University of Western Australia:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by Masters Degree (Research) in Western Australia. Compare courses, fees, and locations. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (UWA is 00126G; course is 078205J).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UWA's website to review specific entry requirements, prepare academic transcripts, English language test scores, a research proposal, and referee reports. Submit your application via UWA's online portal before the deadline (typically rolling or semester-based). Some programs require preliminary supervisor contact.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, UWA will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Processing times vary — apply early. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
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Master of Philosophy (Science) (Physical and Biological) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Western Australia (UWA). 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.