Master of Development Studies (CRICOS course code 083236D) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This course is registered under the field of Social Work (090501) within Society and Culture. If you're an international student aiming to study development studies in Australia, UNSW offers a comprehensive program designed to equip you with the skills to address global challenges. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW meets Australian Government standards for delivering quality education to international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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The Master of Development Studies is a postgraduate coursework degree focusing on human welfare studies and services, specifically social work. Students typically explore theories of development, social policy, project management, and research methods. The program prepares graduates for roles in international development agencies, NGOs, government departments, and community organisations. While specific subjects are set by the university, the course aligns with the AQF Level 9 learning outcomes, which emphasise advanced knowledge, critical analysis, and application of skills to complex professional contexts.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not involve foundation studies. It is classified as a Masters Degree (Coursework) — not a VET course (national code N/A). There is no work component included, meaning the course does not have a mandatory internship or placement. However, students may seek part-time work under their visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$93,000. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, or student services) are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$95,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by UNSW. They are subject to change — always confirm with the UNSW website (www.unsw.edu.au) before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student, living costs in Sydney (where UNSW is located) can range from A$400 to A$700 per week for rent, food, and transport.
International students are typically required to demonstrate English proficiency. For this Masters level course, an overall IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) is generally expected, though UNSW may set specific bands. Applicants usually need a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Foundation or pathway options may be available through UNSW's own programs or partnerships — check directly with the provider. No VET pathway is offered as this is a coursework Masters. Note: entry requirements are set by UNSW and may change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no work placement, internship, or industry experience embedded in the CRICOS registration. However, as a student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Master of Development Studies is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is an inner-south suburb of Sydney. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people, including a large international student population. There are over 500 CRICOS-registered providers in New South Wales offering thousands of courses. The UNSW Kensington campus is well-served by public transport — buses connect to Central Station and other parts of the city. Living costs in Sydney are higher than average; indicative weekly rent for a room is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and transport A$30–A$50.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time on campus in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, and 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 under certain conditions. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa rules. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — consult a MARA agent for individual advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Development Studies at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Society and Culture), and city (Sydney) on HeadStart Academy. Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (UNSW is registered with code 00098G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UNSW's website for entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), and application deadlines. Prepare your transcripts, personal statement, and references. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW accepts you, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For personalised guidance, speak to a registered migration agent.
Ready to study Master of Development Studies at UNSW? Start your journey today: search CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy and apply directly to UNSW.
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Master of Development Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.