Master of Philosophy in Law (CRICOS course code 104939F) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 qualification is designed for students who wish to undertake advanced research in law, contributing new knowledge to the field. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00098G), international students are protected by the ESOS Act and can access Australia's robust student visa framework. HeadStart Academy lists this course alongside 26,433 others from 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers (April 2026). Located at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, the program offers a rigorous research environment with world-class supervision. Whether you aim for an academic career or a high-level legal role, this degree equips you with critical analysis and independent research skills. Tuition is indicative at A$106,500 plus non-tuition fees, but always confirm with the provider. Use this page as your starting point to understand the course, visa requirements, and application steps.
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Master of Philosophy in Law (CRICOS course code 104939F) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. It falls under the field of education 090900 Law, n.f.d. (Society and Culture). UNSW, a Government university with CRICOS provider code 00098G, is a leading research institution based in Sydney, NSW. The course is conducted entirely in English and does not include a work component or double qualification. As a research degree, students produce a thesis under supervision, contributing original findings to legal scholarship. The CRICOS register confirms the course is offered at UNSW's Kensington campus. All CRICOS-listed courses meet Australian government standards for international students, ensuring quality and consumer protection under the ESOS Act. For specific curriculum details, refer to UNSW's official website.
This research degree immerses you in advanced legal study and methodology. The field of Law covers areas such as legal theory, jurisprudence, comparative law, and specialised legal systems. As a Masters Degree (Research), the program emphasises independent research, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. You will develop a research proposal, conduct original investigation, and defend your findings in a thesis. Graduates typically demonstrate deep expertise in a particular legal domain, advanced problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. While specific coursework may be minimal, you may engage in seminars and workshops to support your research. This level of study prepares you for PhD programs or senior roles in legal practice, policy, or academia. For exact learning outcomes, contact UNSW directly.
The Master of Philosophy in Law is a 2-year full-time program, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual degree or foundation studies included. UNSW may offer part-time options for domestic students, but international students are typically required to maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa conditions (Subclass 500). The course is delivered at UNSW's Kensington campus, with access to libraries, research centres, and supervision from faculty. Confirm with UNSW the exact study mode (on-campus only or blended) as conditions may vary.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$106,500 for the full program (2 years), as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the total to A$108,500. Please note: these fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. As a guide, Sydney's weekly living costs are approximately A$500–A$700 for rent (shared accommodation) plus utilities, food, and transport. Always check UNSW's official website for current fee schedules and payment options. HeadStart Academy provides this data for reference only — we do not guarantee amounts. ESOS protections apply to tuition paid.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For research degrees, UNSW may require IELTS 7.0 (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent. You must also hold a Bachelor's degree (Honours) or equivalent in a relevant field, demonstrating research capability. Some applicants may be admitted via a Graduate Diploma or with substantial professional experience. UNSW does not list this course as having foundation studies options; however, pathway programs (e.g., University of NSW Foundation Studies) may be available for other courses. Always confirm specific academic and English requirements with UNSW. For visa purposes, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
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 and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work is not part of the curriculum but can help with living costs.
The Master of Philosophy in Law is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 5 km from the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport (buses and light rail). Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; a student's weekly budget including rent, food, and transport is typically A$600–A$900. UNSW's campus features modern facilities, libraries, and research centres. When choosing a location, consider proximity to the university, lifestyle preferences, and cost of living.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs ($A21,041 per year as of April 2026), and travel. Your visa may allow work: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays. You must abide by visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment and attendance. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. All CRICOS-registered courses ensure access to ESOS protections.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research) and field (Law) to confirm UNSW offers this course. Check CRICOS code 104939F. 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Visit www.unsw.edu.au, review entry requirements (including English test scores and academic transcripts), prepare a research proposal, and submit your application by the deadline. Some programs require contacting potential supervisors beforehand. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW offers you a place, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa online via homeaffairs.gov.au. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of funds. We recommend starting the visa process at least 3 months before course commencement.
A research degree like the Master of Philosophy in Law requires independent motivation, strong writing skills, and a clear research focus. Consider whether you have a specific legal question or area you want to explore. UNSW offers supervision from leading academics, but you should check faculty expertise aligns with your interests. Location matters: Sydney offers a vibrant legal community but higher living costs. Also, research degrees may have fewer scholarships compared to coursework programs. If you are unsure about a full PhD, this MPhil can be a stepping stone. Always compare with other CRICOS-registered providers in NSW or other states using HeadStart Academy's database. Your career goals (academia, legal practice, policy) should guide your choice.
Ready to apply? Research CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy, verify details with UNSW, and start your student visa journey today.
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Master of Philosophy in Law is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.