Master of Information and Communications Technology (Research) (CRICOS course code 092789G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This research-focused program is ideal for international students seeking advanced knowledge in information technology and communications. Western Sydney University is a CRICOS-registered government provider (CRICOS 00917K) and one of over 1,500 providers on the CRICOS register offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards under the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. The program is delivered at the Parramatta campus in New South Wales, a vibrant multicultural hub with excellent public transport links and a growing student population. This page provides indicative fees, entry guidelines, visa requirements, and application steps — all sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026 update).
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Master of Information and Communications Technology (Research) (CRICOS course code 092789G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This course falls under the broad field of Information Technology (Field of Education code 029999) and is designed for students who wish to pursue research in ICT. As a research degree, it involves significant independent study, a thesis, and completion of research methodology components. The qualification is at AQF Level 9, equivalent to a Master by Research. International students benefit from studying at a CRICOS-registered institution, ensuring compliance with Australian education quality standards. Western Sydney University is a public university with multiple campuses across Greater Western Sydney, serving a diverse student body of over 40,000 students. The CRICOS register shows this course as a single qualification with no work component, taught entirely in English.
This research master's in ICT allows students to specialise in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, networking, data analytics, or software engineering. While the exact syllabus is determined by the university, typical research degrees require completion of a substantial thesis under supervision, along with coursework in research methods and ethics. Graduates develop advanced analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills, preparing them for careers in academia, R&D, or senior technical roles. The field 'Information Technology, n.e.c.' covers emerging and interdisciplinary areas not classified elsewhere, meaning students can tailor their research to cutting-edge topics. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the curriculum meets Australian Qualifications Framework standards for Level 9 research degrees. Prospective students should review the provider's specific research areas on their website.
The course duration is 2 years 6 months (approximately 130 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time on campus at Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree, and does not include a foundation studies component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions. The actual time to completion may vary depending on research progress and thesis submission timelines. Students should confirm the expected duration with Western Sydney University before applying.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$106,140, with non-tuition fees of A$750, resulting in an estimated total of A$106,890. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Western Sydney University. Please note: fees shown are indicative only and subject to change — always confirm current fees with the provider directly. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. Living costs in Parramatta, NSW, for a single student are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC for a single student for the full course duration is typically around A$2,000–3,000. International students are required to demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC when applying for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For the latest fee information, visit Western Sydney University's website at www.westernsydney.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a research master's, universities often require a higher level, such as IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: applicants generally need a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., information technology, computer science, engineering) with a strong academic record. Some providers may require a research proposal or supervisor agreement. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — check with Western Sydney University. Always refer to the official entry requirements on the provider's website or contact their admissions office. As this is a CRICOS-registered course, the provider must assess academic qualifications and English proficiency in line with Department of Home Affairs standards.
This course has no mandatory work component. It is a research-based degree with no industrial placement or internship requirement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights do not apply if the course has a work component, but in this case, students can seek voluntary employment. Note: work rights are granted automatically with the Student visa, but students must not compromise their study commitments.
This course is delivered at Western Sydney University — Parramatta campus, located in Parramatta, NSW. Parramatta is a major commercial and educational hub in Western Sydney, approximately 25 km west of Sydney CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and the Parramatta Light Rail. Parramatta has a large student population and offers a range of accommodation, dining, and cultural amenities. The city of Sydney has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all levels, making it a popular destination for international students. Living costs in Parramatta are generally lower than in Sydney's CBD, with weekly rent for a studio apartment around A$300–450. For more location-specific guidance, visit our Parramatta study guide.
International students enrolling in this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language and health requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory and must be maintained for the duration of the visa. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa conditions; we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent. For a detailed guide on student visas, see our Student Visa Subclass 500 page.
Applying for Master of Information and Communications Technology (Research) at Western Sydney University involves three key steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) and this course (CRICOS 092789G) are registered. Filter by course level (Masters Degree Research) and location (Parramatta, NSW) to find your options.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Western Sydney University's website to review entry requirements, English language tests, application deadlines, and submit your application. You may need to provide academic transcripts, a research proposal, and evidence of English proficiency.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC cover and proof of financial capacity.
Parramatta offers a dynamic study environment with a mix of urban convenience and community feel. The area has a large international student community, with affordable living costs compared to Sydney CBD. Public transport connects Parramatta to Sydney's city centre and other suburbs. Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus is modern and well-equipped for research students. However, if you prefer a more central Sydney location, consider other CRICOS-registered providers in the city. Consider factors like climate (mild winters, warm summers), proximity to job markets, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy provides detailed state and city guides to help you decide.
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Master of Information and Communications Technology (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney 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.