Master of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 078343K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 research degree is designed for graduates seeking to develop advanced research skills and contribute original knowledge in the field of Society and Culture. The course is ideal for students aiming for a career in academia, research, or specialised professional roles. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00102E), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections and quality assurance. Wollongong, a vibrant coastal city south of Sydney, offers a supportive research environment with access to UoW's extensive research facilities and networks. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course, including fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways, based on data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Master of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 078343K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 2 years. Offered under the broad field of Society and Culture (field code 090000), this research degree allows students to undertake a supervised research project culminating in a thesis. The University of Wollongong (CRICOS 00102E) is a public university known for its strong research output and industry connections. This course is suitable for international students who wish to pursue a research-focused pathway in Australia. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections and can access Australia's robust student visa framework. The course code 078343K should be referenced in all visa and enrolment documentation.
The Master of Philosophy falls under the field of Society and Culture, encompassing disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. At this research level, students typically engage in: developing a research proposal, undertaking a literature review, conducting original research using qualitative and/or quantitative methods, and writing a thesis of approximately 40,000 words. Students are guided by a supervisory panel and may participate in research seminars and workshops. The specific research topic is determined in consultation with the supervisor and must align with UoW's research strengths. Graduates emerge with critical thinking, analytical, and project management skills valued in academia, government, and the private sector.
The Master of Philosophy is a 2-year (104-week) full-time course. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 104 weeks, which is the standard timeframe for a Masters by Research in Australia. Students are expected to be enrolled continuously, with scheduled breaks in line with UoW's academic calendar. Part-time study may be available under specific visa conditions, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Philosophy is A$70,464 for the full 2 years. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities fee) are approximately A$730, bringing the estimated total to A$71,194. Please note: these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover; living expenses — estimated at A$24,000 per year (including rent, food, transport); and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). Always check the University of Wollongong website for current fees and any scholarships that may be available.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters by Research, most universities require a higher level (often IELTS 6.5–7.0, with no band below 6.0). Additionally, applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong academic record or a postgraduate qualification. Some candidates may need to demonstrate research experience via a research proposal or prior publications. Foundation or pathway programs are not available for this level; however, UoW may offer pre-Masters or research preparation programs. Contact the provider for specific entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may undertake casual work outside study hours subject to visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). Any work must not interfere with research progress.
The Master of Philosophy is delivered at UOW Wollongong campus, located in WOLLONGONG, NSW. Wollongong is a university city with a population of over 300,000, situated about 80 km south of Sydney. It has a strong student community and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney — indicative weekly rent for a room is A$200–A$350, and public transport via train and buses connects the campus to the city centre. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, and Wollongong itself hosts several institutions. The UOW campus is well-served by public transport, with free shuttle buses and train stations nearby.
Wollongong offers a unique blend of coastal lifestyle and academic excellence. It is home to the University of Wollongong, consistently ranked among the top Australian universities for research. The city's cost of living is moderate, with an estimated weekly budget of A$400–A$600 for rent, groceries, and transport. Wollongong's proximity to Sydney (90 minutes by train) allows easy access to metropolitan resources while maintaining a quieter study environment. For international students researching society and culture, Wollongong provides diverse community settings and research opportunities in regional and urban contexts. Consider if a research degree in a mid-sized city aligns with your personal and career goals.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$24,000 per year), and OSHC. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents on a Student visa may have work rights as well. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current policies and consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Applying for the Master of Philosophy at University of Wollongong involves three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Society and Culture), and location (Wollongong). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution — check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, provide English test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and prepare a research proposal. Deadlines vary so contact UoW admissions. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence ready.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore the Master of Philosophy at University of Wollongong and contact UoW for the latest entry requirements and fees.
Master of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.