Master of Philosophy (Science) (CRICOS course code 086400F) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Sydney over 2 years. Designed for students seeking to deepen their knowledge in natural and physical sciences, this research-intensive program allows candidates to undertake a supervised research project leading to a thesis. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00026A), international students can study this qualification under Australia's robust quality framework, with full ESOS Act protections. The University of Sydney, a Group of Eight university, is renowned for its research output and global rankings. Located in Camperdown, Sydney, the campus offers state-of-the-art laboratories and libraries. This page provides a comprehensive overview of fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, visa processes, and how to apply for this course. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability for prospective international students.
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Master of Philosophy (Science) (CRICOS 086400F) is a Masters Degree (Research) offered by The University of Sydney. The course falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (Field of Education code 010000). It is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a research career in science, offering a pathway to doctoral studies or employment in research-intensive roles. The program is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) with no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award, and does not include foundation studies. The University of Sydney is a government-owned public university, one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious, and holds CRICOS registration 00026A. International students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and quality standards.
The Master of Philosophy (Science) focuses on advanced research skills within the Natural and Physical Sciences. Candidates will engage in independent research under academic supervision, developing a thesis that contributes original knowledge to their chosen field. Typical areas of study may include biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, and mathematics. The program emphasizes critical analysis, experimental design, data interpretation, and scholarly writing. While the specific syllabus is set by the university, graduates of research master's degrees at this level are expected to demonstrate a systematic understanding of knowledge and the ability to conceptualise, design and implement research. This aligns with AQF Level 9 outcomes.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Science) has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The course is delivered in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies component. Study mode is likely full-time on campus, but international students should verify delivery options directly with The University of Sydney. For visa purposes, students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fees for Master of Philosophy (Science) at The University of Sydney are indicative: A$109,800 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as materials or library access) are estimated at A$752, bringing the estimated total to A$110,552. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Sydney are approximately A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on The University of Sydney's website: http://sydney.edu.au. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Science) are determined by The University of Sydney. Generally, applicants need a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field with a strong academic record, and often a research component. English language requirements vary: typically an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some courses may require higher scores. The university may also require a research proposal or supervisor agreement. No foundation studies are included in this course, but pathway options may be available through the university. Always check specific requirements on the provider's website. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the university directly for definitive entry criteria.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Master of Philosophy (Science) is delivered at The University of Sydney's main campus in Camperdown, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city and a major study destination with over 200,000 international students. The city has more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Camperdown is near the city centre, accessible by public transport (trains, buses, light rail). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$500–$700. The university provides excellent research facilities and student support services.
International students enrolled in Master of Philosophy (Science) will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider. Key conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment, adequate OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents may also have work rights. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
New South Wales (NSW) is home to over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 10,000 courses. Sydney, the state capital, is a global hub for education, finance, and culture. The state has a diverse student population and strong public transport networks. For international students, NSW offers a high quality of life but also higher living costs compared to other states. For example, weekly rent in Sydney averages A$600–$900 for a one-bedroom apartment. The state also has many research-intensive universities, including The University of Sydney. Consider factors like climate, job opportunities, and lifestyle when choosing NSW for your studies.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Philosophy (Science) at The University of Sydney:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and city (Sydney). Confirm that The University of Sydney (CRICOS 00026A) offers this course.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (academic qualifications, English test scores, research proposal) and application deadlines. Submit your application online via The University of Sydney's admissions portal. You may need to identify a potential supervisor.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
Ready to apply? Start by checking your eligibility and then apply directly to The University of Sydney. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Master of Philosophy (Science) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. 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.