Master of Pharmacy (CRICOS course code 085641G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Griffith University over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This program is designed for graduates who want to become registered pharmacists in Australia. It combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical placements, preparing students for the Australian Pharmacy Council examinations. Griffith University is a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00233E) located on the Gold Coast, Queensland. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Griffith University meets the rigorous standards of the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and support. If you are considering a career in pharmacy and want to study in a vibrant coastal city, this course offers a comprehensive pathway. Below you will find key details including fees, entry requirements, and the work component that gives you real-world experience in Australian healthcare settings.
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Master of Pharmacy (CRICOS course code 085641G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Griffith University over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This course falls under the field of Pharmacy (060501) within Health (06). It is a single qualification with no dual awards, and no foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. The program includes a mandatory work component of 9 weeks at 35 hours per week (~315 total hours), typically undertaken as clinical placements in hospital or community pharmacy settings. Griffith University is registered on CRICOS (provider code 00233E), confirming its compliance with Australian quality standards for international education. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Master of Pharmacy prepares graduates for professional practice as pharmacists. The curriculum covers core areas such as pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, clinical pharmacy, and pharmacy practice. Students learn how to dispense medications, counsel patients, manage drug therapies, and work within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. At the Masters level, there is an emphasis on evidence-based practice, research skills, and advanced clinical reasoning. Graduates are equipped to take the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) intern training program and ultimately apply for general registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia. The program integrates theoretical learning with practical placements in real pharmacy settings.
The Master of Pharmacy has a duration of 2 years 6 months (130 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Full-time study is expected. The course is delivered on-campus at the Gold Coast campus (Southport). English is the language of instruction. This is a single qualification; no dual awards or embedded pathway degrees are associated with this CRICOS code. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for the Master of Pharmacy are indicative A$126,000 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$2,277, bringing the estimated total to A$128,277. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently AUD $1,600). For the most current fee structure, always check Griffith University's official website (www.griffith.edu.au). The cost of living on the Gold Coast is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around AUD $350-$450, groceries AUD $80-$140, and a public transport weekly pass about AUD $50.
Entry to the Master of Pharmacy typically requires a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant science or health discipline (e.g., pharmacology, biomedical science, chemistry). A minimum GPA of 4.5 or 5.0 (on a 7.0 scale) is often expected. English language proficiency: IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0, with no band below 6.0 (some programs require 7.0 in speaking and listening). Alternative tests like PTE or TOEFL are accepted. Applicants may also need to pass a literacy and numeracy test, provide a personal statement, and attend an interview. Prior learning or foundation studies pathways may be available – refer to Griffith University for details. Note that entry requirements are set by the institution and may change. Always confirm directly with Griffith University.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 9 weeks at 35 hours per week, totalling approximately 315 hours. This typically involves supervised professional experience placements in hospital pharmacies, community pharmacies, or other clinical settings. The work-integrated learning (WIL) component is designed to develop practical skills in patient care, medication management, and interprofessional collaboration. Placements may be arranged by the university and are a required part of the curriculum. Students must adhere to placement policies, which may include immunisation checks, police clearances, and professional indemnity insurance. The work component does not count towards the 48 hours per fortnight work limitation under the student visa, as it is a compulsory part of the course.
The Master of Pharmacy is delivered at Griffith University's Gold Coast campus in Southport, Queensland. The Gold Coast is a major city with a population of over 600,000, known for its beaches, tourism, and growing health sector. It is home to more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse courses. Living costs on the Gold Coast are moderate; students can access reliable public transport (buses and light rail) connecting the campus to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Brisbane (via train). The campus is well-equipped with modern laboratories, a pharmacy simulation suite, and library resources. Studying on the Gold Coast offers a balance of academic environment and lifestyle opportunities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study the Master of Pharmacy at Griffith University. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Griffith, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (~AUD $21,041 per year for a single student), and OSHC for the duration of the visa. OSHC is mandatory and typically costs around AUD $500-$700 per year for single cover. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). The course is CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent. For specific visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
The Gold Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle with a subtropical climate, beaches, and a growing job market in healthcare and education. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including universities, TAFE, and private colleges. The cost of living is lower than Sydney and Melbourne but higher than smaller regional centres. Typical weekly expenses: rent for a one-bedroom apartment $350-$450, groceries $80-$140, public transport $50-$70 (student discounts available). The Gold Coast has a young, diverse population with many international students. If you prefer a coastal environment with access to both nature and city amenities, it could be an ideal study destination. However, consider that clinical placements may require travel to hospitals across southeast Queensland.
Applying for the Master of Pharmacy at Griffith University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Pharmacy), and city (Gold Coast). Confirm the course is CRICOS-registered (code 085641G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check Griffith University's entry requirements for the Master of Pharmacy, including prerequisites, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through their online portal with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement). Some applicants may need to attend an interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once Griffith University issues a CoE, you can apply for a visa. Ensure you have OSHC, evidence of funds, and meet GTE requirements. Lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to begin your pharmacy career? Visit Griffith University's website to check current fees, entry requirements, and application deadlines. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality education under Australian law.
Master of Pharmacy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith 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.