Master of Laws (Research) (CRICOS course code 099203D) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 2 years. This research-focused program, classified under the field of Law (090900), is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced legal scholarship and contribute original knowledge to the discipline. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00279B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Studying at Edith Cowan University (ECU) campuses in Perth or Joondalup, you'll engage with expert supervisors and access world-class research facilities. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, offers a vibrant student community with over 60,000 international students from more than 200 countries. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options — and this course page provides everything you need to know about fees, entry requirements, visa pathways, and how to apply.
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Master of Laws (Research) (CRICOS course code 099203D) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Edith Cowan University over 2 years. This course is classified under Field of Education 090900 – Law, n.f.d., within the broader Society and Culture discipline. As a research degree, it requires students to undertake a substantial thesis under supervision, demonstrating advanced knowledge and research skills in a specialised area of law. The course is available at ECU's City Campus in Perth and Joondalup Campus, both in Western Australia. International students benefit from ECU's strong support services, including dedicated international student advisors and English language support. The tuition fee is indicative A$95,100 total, with no compulsory non-tuition fees reported on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges. Western Australia has a growing legal sector, and Perth offers a high quality of life with a median weekly rent of around A$400 for a one-bedroom apartment (source: cost of living guides). ECU is a government-funded university with a strong research reputation, and this course aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 9.
As a Masters Degree (Research) in Law, this course focuses on developing advanced research capabilities in legal studies. Students typically undertake a structured program of research training and then produce a thesis of 30,000–40,000 words that makes a significant contribution to legal knowledge. The field of education (090900 Law, n.f.d.) covers broad legal principles, including jurisprudence, legal theory, comparative law, and specialised areas such as commercial law, human rights, or environmental law. Graduates emerge with skills in critical analysis, legal reasoning, and independent research, preparing them for careers in academia, policy, or senior legal practice. ECU's research strengths include criminal justice, family law, and intellectual property. While specific coursework may vary, the emphasis is on developing a research proposal, literature review, methodology, and ethical clearance. Students are expected to attend seminars and may have opportunities to publish during their candidature.
The Master of Laws (Research) is registered on the CRICOS register with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). This is the standard full-time duration for a research master's degree in Australia. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no mandatory work component. Students typically study on campus, though some research activities may be conducted off-site under supervision. ECU offers flexible start dates, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course is not offered as a foundation studies program, and no VET national code applies as it is a higher education degree. If you require part-time study or extensions, consult with ECU's international student office.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Laws (Research) at Edith Cowan University is A$95,100 for the full duration (2 years). This figure is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and may change. Non-tuition fees are reported as A$0, meaning no compulsory additional charges such as application fees or materials fees are listed. However, students should note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs in Perth are estimated at around A$21,000–A$25,000 per year, including accommodation (A$300–A$500 per week for shared or single accommodation), groceries, and transport. The Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge is currently A$710 (as of 2025 rates, subject to change). Always confirm current fees directly with Edith Cowan University at www.ecu.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees as a guide only.
Entry requirements for Master of Laws (Research) are set by Edith Cowan University and typically include a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent with a strong academic record, often a credit average or higher. Some applicants may need to demonstrate research experience or submit a research proposal. English language requirements vary by provider — for ECU, international students from non-English speaking backgrounds generally need IELTS 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent. This is higher than the typical range of 5.5–7.0 for other courses. Some students may be eligible for pathway programs, such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma, if they do not meet direct entry. Always check ECU's official website for precise requirements. HeadStart Academy advises that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission, and you should apply directly to the university.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs. ECU's CareerHub provides job listings and workshops to assist with part-time employment. Note that work rights are subject to visa conditions and can change — always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current rules.
Master of Laws (Research) is delivered at two campuses in Western Australia: ECU City Campus (Perth) and ECU Joondalup Campus (Joondalup, approximately 25 km north of Perth). Perth is the capital city of WA, with a population of over 2 million and a strong legal industry. The city has over 60 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 2,000 courses. Public transport connects both campuses via train and bus; the Joondalup line services ECU's Joondalup campus, while the City campus is walkable from Perth's central train station. Perth's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging A$400–A$500. The climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm summers. International students enjoy a friendly, multicultural environment.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa requires confirmation of enrolment (CoE) from ECU, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity (covering tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and English language proficiency. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the visa duration. On a Student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members (if included) may also work up to 48 hours per fortnight. The visa also allows you to travel in and out of Australia. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — for personalised visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Laws (Research) at Edith Cowan University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare providers and ensure they are CRICOS-registered (ECU is registered as 00279B). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit ECU's website (www.ecu.edu.au) to review exact entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, research proposal, English test results, etc.). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, ECU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
Western Australia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Perth, the state capital, is known for its sunny climate, vibrant arts scene, and growing economy. For legal research students, WA has a robust legal sector with opportunities in mining, energy, and commercial law. The state has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, including ECU, University of Western Australia, Murdoch, and Curtin. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400. Public transport is efficient, and the city is well-connected to Asia. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Perth offers a relaxed pace, while still providing world-class education. However, if you prefer a larger city with more networking opportunities, Sydney or Melbourne may be alternatives. HeadStart Academy helps you compare all options.
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Master of Laws (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan 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.