Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) (CRICOS course code 081362C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by James Cook University over 2 years. This research-focused program allows international students to undertake supervised research in the field of management and commerce, contributing original knowledge to the discipline. James Cook University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00117J, Government) with campuses in Cairns and Townsville, Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. With Australia hosting over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, this degree offers a pathway to advanced research careers in business, academia, or policy. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Always verify details with the provider.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) (CRICOS course code 081362C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by James Cook University over 2 years (104 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 08 - Management and Commerce (0800 - Management and Commerce, n.f.d.). As a research degree, it requires students to complete a supervised research project and thesis, typically contributing new knowledge to the field. James Cook University (CRICOS 00117J) is a government university with a strong reputation in tropical research and sustainability. The course is offered in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no mandatory work component. International students benefit from Australia's robust student visa framework and ESOS protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This research degree focuses on developing advanced research skills in management and commerce. Students will design and execute a research project under supervision, learning to critically analyze literature, apply methodologies, and interpret findings. The field covers areas such as organizational behavior, strategic management, marketing, finance, and international business. Graduates typically emerge with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing them for leadership roles in industry, government, or academia. While the specific syllabus varies by supervisor and project, the course emphasizes independent research and scholarly writing. As a Level 9 qualification (AQF), it meets the academic requirements for a range of careers and further study (e.g., PhD).
The CRICOS register lists this course as 2 years (104 weeks). It is offered in English and is a single qualification (not dual or combined). Students are expected to study full-time to meet visa requirements. James Cook University may offer flexible study arrangements, but the standard CRICOS duration determines visa grants. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfy course progress requirements. The language of instruction is English, so applicants must demonstrate proficiency through an approved test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). Always check the provider's specific English language requirements, which typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 for this level.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) is A$75,273 total (sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. The estimated total fee for the course is therefore A$75,273. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Queensland vary; for example, Brisbane (where JCU does not have a campus) has higher costs, but Townsville and Cairns are more affordable. Indicative weekly rent in Townsville is A$150–250, groceries A$60–100, and public transport A$20–40. Always confirm current fees with James Cook University at www.jcu.edu.au, as fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements for this Masters Degree (Research) typically include a completed bachelor's degree with a strong academic record (often Honours or equivalent research experience). English language proficiency is required; James Cook University sets its own standards. For research degrees, IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0) is common, but check the provider website. Some applicants may need to complete a research proposal or secure a supervisor. Foundation studies are not applicable at this level, but pathway options (e.g., graduate certificate) may be available. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for precise requirements and to discuss your qualifications.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a research degree focused on independent study and thesis preparation. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with course requirements. Work opportunities in Townsville and Cairns include hospitality, retail, and university research assistant roles. The absence of a compulsory work component means students can focus fully on their research.
Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) is delivered at two James Cook University campuses: Cairns (Smithfield, QLD) and Townsville (Townsville, QLD). Both cities are in tropical North Queensland, offering a unique study environment. Cairns is a popular tourist gateway with a multicultural student community and lower living costs than major capitals. Townsville is a regional city with a strong military and mining presence, home to JCU's main campus. Both campuses have modern facilities, libraries, and research labs. Queensland hosts over 300 CRICOS-registered providers and is the third most popular state for international students. Public transport connects campuses to city centers; student discounts apply. The tropical climate means warm weather year-round.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from James Cook University. Visa requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (at least A$21,041 per year from 2024, updated regularly), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa duration. OSHC covers medical and hospital costs. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited in breaks. Upon completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) at James Cook University:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Explore courses on HeadStart Academy by filtering by course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Management and Commerce), and location (Queensland). Confirm James Cook University's CRICOS registration (00117J).
**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit James Cook University's website (www.jcu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and English test results. Submit your application online or through a registered education agent.
**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, JCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, funds, and GTE. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Queensland offers a vibrant student life with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Townsville and Cairns are regional cities with strong international student communities. Living costs in Townsville: rent A$150–250/week, groceries A$60–100, transport A$20–40. Cairns is similar. The climate is tropical, with wet and dry seasons. Both cities have public universities (including JCU) and TAFE institutes. Queensland has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. If you prefer a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle with access to the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests, this could be ideal. However, consider that research opportunities may be more abundant in larger cities. HeadStart Academy's data shows 26,433 courses across Australia, so compare options.
Start your journey to study in Australia – explore all CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy today.
Master of Philosophy (Management and Commerce) 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.