Master of Philosophy (Education) (CRICOS course code 081339B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by James Cook University over 2 years. This program is designed for international students who want to pursue a research-focused qualification in the field of Education. James Cook University is a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00117J) with campuses in Cairns and Townsville, Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered provider, JCU meets Australia's rigorous standards for delivering courses to overseas students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses. Whether you're exploring master's degrees in Australia or specifically researching education programs, this page gives you a detailed, transparent look at the MPhil (Education) at JCU.
Master of Philosophy (Education) is a research-intensive Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9. It falls under the field of Education (07 - Education → 0700 - Education → 070000 - Education, n.f.d.). The program allows students to develop advanced research skills and contribute original knowledge to the field of education. James Cook University (JCU) is a well-established Australian university with a strong reputation in tropical and regional research. The course is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. International students enrolled in this course are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects their rights and ensures quality education.
As a Masters Degree (Research) in Education, students engage in independent research under academic supervision. The field of Education encompasses learning theories, curriculum development, educational policy, and pedagogy. At this level, students typically conduct a substantial research project, culminating in a thesis. While specific course content is determined by JCU, graduates develop skills in critical analysis, research methodology, and scholarly communication. This qualification is ideal for those aiming for careers in educational research, policy-making, or further doctoral study.
The Master of Philosophy (Education) is a 2-year (104 weeks) program on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification offered). There is no VET component (VET national code: N/A). Study mode is typically on-campus at JCU's Cairns or Townsville campuses, with research activities conducted in university facilities. Full-time study is expected. Students should note that the duration and mode may affect visa conditions – the Student visa (Subclass 500) generally requires full-time enrolment.
Tuition for this course is indicative A$75,273. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs. The estimated total fee is A$75,273. Please note: this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For example, OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Queensland vary – weekly rent in Townsville averages A$200–$350, while Cairns is similar. Always confirm current fees directly with James Cook University at www.jcu.edu.au. Course fees are set by the institution and subject to change; HeadStart Academy displays indicative figures from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Degree (Research), JCU likely expects a higher English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or 7.0). Prior qualifications: applicants should normally hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Education or a related discipline) with research components. Some universities require a research proposal or supervisor agreement. There may be foundation or pathway options if you don't meet direct entry – check with JCU. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration or academic advice; consult JCU for precise entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This is a general visa condition and not part of the course curriculum. Work opportunities can help offset living costs, but should not interfere with study commitments.
This course is delivered at two JCU campuses: James Cook University - Cairns in Smithfield, Queensland, and James Cook University - Townsville in Townsville City, Queensland. Both are in northern Queensland, a region known for tropical climate and diverse ecosystems. Cairns is a hub for tourism and has a growing student community, while Townsville is a larger regional city with a strong education sector. Queensland is home to many CRICOS-registered providers – over 150 in the state – offering numerous courses. Living costs in northern QLD are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport is available via buses; JCU campuses are accessible by local transit. Consider your preferred study environment – urban Townsville or the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns.
Queensland offers a unique environment for education research, especially in tropical and Indigenous contexts. The state has a high number of registered schools and universities, providing rich field opportunities. JCU's research strengths include education in rural and remote settings. Living costs are moderate: rent in Townsville is around A$250–$400 per week; Cairns is similar. Queensland's warm climate and outdoor lifestyle appeal to many international students. Before choosing, consider your research interests, networking opportunities, and long-term career goals. HeadStart Academy lists all CRICOS courses in Queensland, including 30+ education master's degrees.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key visa conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress, hold OSHC for the duration, and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods (unlimited during breaks). You must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The visa application charge is around A$710 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Education) at James Cook University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Education), and location (Queensland). Confirm JCU meets your expectations. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.jcu.edu.au and find the application page for international students. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and referees. Note application deadlines – typically semesters start in February and July. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once JCU offers you a place, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE criteria.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore more Masters Degrees (Research) in Queensland on HeadStart Academy, or contact James Cook University directly to begin your application.
Master of Philosophy (Education) is a CRICOS-registered programme at James Cook University. 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.