Master of Research (Arts) (CRICOS course code 087959C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This research-focused program is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge and skills in the field of Studies in Human Society, within the broader Society and Culture discipline. Delivered at Macquarie's Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, Sydney, this course prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and policy development. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00002J), international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses in Australia, this program stands out for its strong research orientation and pathway to a PhD. Explore the details below including fees, entry requirements, and the student visa process to begin your journey.
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This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' with a specific focus on '0903 - Studies in Human Society.' At the Masters Degree (Research) level, students undertake an independent research project under the supervision of experienced faculty. The program develops advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and scholarly writing skills. Graduates emerge with the ability to contribute original knowledge to the field. While the exact curriculum is set by Macquarie University, typical components include a thesis or dissertation, research seminars, and elective coursework in relevant areas. This is a research degree, so emphasis is on producing a substantial piece of original research that makes a unique contribution to the understanding of human society. Students will engage with contemporary debates and methodologies, preparing them for doctoral study or research-intensive careers.
The Master of Research (Arts) is a 2-year (104 weeks) program on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual degree). Students are expected to engage in full-time study, typically through a combination of supervised research and coursework. The program does not include a foundation studies component. This duration allows for deep immersion in the research process, from developing a proposal to completing a thesis. International students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with visa conditions. The program is structured to provide both depth and breadth in research training, often including a coursework component to build foundational skills before the major research project.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register show tuition of A$78,700 and non-tuition fees of A$373, with an estimated total of A$79,073. Please note: these are indicative only, set by Macquarie University and subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fees, always check Macquarie University's official website. The non-tuition fees may cover services such as student amenities and library access. Budgeting for the entire study period is essential – aside from fees, students should plan for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities, with indicative weekly living costs of approximately A$600–A$900.
Entry requirements for this research degree typically include a completed bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree in a related field. English language proficiency is required – providers commonly set IELTS scores between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, but specific requirements vary by institution and course. Macquarie University may require a research proposal or evidence of research experience. No foundation studies are offered for this level, so applicants must meet academic prerequisites directly. Always refer to the university's admissions page for exact criteria. International students may also need to demonstrate sufficient academic background through transcripts and references. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may still seek casual or part-time work within student visa limitations. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. While not required, research students often seek research assistant roles or teaching fellowships within the university to gain experience and supplement income. Any work must not conflict with study commitments. It's important to balance work and study to ensure satisfactory course progress.
The program is delivered at Macquarie University's main campus, Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, in Sydney, New South Wales. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant student community and over 200,000 international students across multiple universities. The campus is well-connected by public transport, including the Macquarie University metro station and bus services. The surrounding area offers a range of accommodation options from on-campus residences to off-campus rentals, with indicative weekly rent between A$300–A$600 for a one-bedroom unit. The campus features modern research facilities, libraries, and collaborative spaces. Being in Sydney, students have access to diverse cultural and professional opportunities.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Conditions include the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs (currently A$29,710 per year for a single student), and health insurance via Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. It's important to note that visa regulations can change – always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for personalised visa advice.
Apply for the Master of Research (Arts) at Macquarie University in three simple steps:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one at Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J). Consider course level, location, and institution reputation.
Step 2: Apply directly to Macquarie University – check entry requirements, language proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal or statement of purpose and gather transcripts and references.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – ensure you have OSHC and proof of funds for tuition and living costs. Submit your visa application online before your course starts.
Sydney offers a dynamic lifestyle with world-class education. It has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, including Macquarie University, University of Sydney, UNSW, and UTS. The cost of living is higher than other Australian cities; budget approximately A$600–A$900 per week for rent, food, and transport. With a mild climate and multicultural environment, Sydney attracts students from all over the world. However, consider that research degrees require dedicated time for study and research in libraries and labs. Sydney's transport network makes commuting feasible from various suburbs. The city also offers abundant part-time work opportunities in retail, hospitality, and tutoring. Weigh these factors against your study goals and budget.
Ready to apply? Start by browsing similar courses at HeadStart Academy or contact Macquarie University directly.
Master of Research (Arts) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.