Master of Naturopathic Medicine (CRICOS course code 108576G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 2 years. This program is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in complementary therapies, specifically naturopathy, which falls under the field of education 0619 - Complementary Therapies. As a CRICOS-registered course (108576G) at a government university, it meets Australian quality standards for international students. Southern Cross University is a recognised provider with CRICOS code 01241G, offering this program at its Gold Coast and Lismore campuses. If you're aiming to become a registered naturopath or enhance your clinical skills, this Master's degree provides a pathway to professional practice in Australia. With a focus on evidence-based natural medicine, the course prepares graduates for roles in private practice, integrative healthcare, and wellness industries. HeadStart Academy presents this information from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 to help you make informed study decisions.
The Master of Naturopathic Medicine (108576G) is a postgraduate degree at AQF Level 9, specialising in naturopathy within the complementary therapies field. Southern Cross University (SCU) delivers this 2-year program, which is listed on the CRICOS register as a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies components. The course includes a work component of 24 weeks (approximately 510 hours) for hands-on clinical experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student welfare. The provider, Southern Cross University, is a public university with a strong reputation in health sciences. This program is ideal for those who already hold a relevant bachelor's degree and wish to specialise in naturopathic medicine. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical placement, preparing graduates for a career in natural healthcare. Remember to verify current course details directly with SCU, as fees and offerings may change.
This Master's degree falls under the field of education 0619 - Complementary Therapies, specifically 061901 - Naturopathy. Students explore advanced concepts in natural medicine, including herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, lifestyle counselling, and diagnostic skills. The program emphasises evidence-based practice, integrating traditional naturopathic principles with modern scientific research. You will learn to assess patient health, develop treatment plans, and monitor outcomes using a holistic approach. Core subjects typically cover advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology for naturopaths, and clinical reasoning. The course also includes a substantial research component, allowing you to investigate a topic relevant to naturopathic medicine. Graduates are prepared to work as primary healthcare practitioners or within multidisciplinary teams. The curriculum is designed to meet the competency standards required for professional registration as a naturopath in Australia, where applicable.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Naturopathic Medicine has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification – no dual awards or foundation studies are included. The program is delivered full-time, and students are expected to attend classes, practical sessions, and clinical placements. The course structure may include a mix of on-campus learning, online components, and supervised clinical hours. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The 2-year duration also allows for a 24-week work component, which is integrated into the study schedule. This structure ensures that graduates gain both academic knowledge and practical skills necessary for professional practice.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Naturopathic Medicine is A$52,000 for the entire program, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$4,000, bringing the total to A$56,000 as per the CRICOS register. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Tuition fees are set by Southern Cross University (SCU) and are subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, always check the official SCU website at www.scu.edu.au. As a guide, international students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, equipment, and clinical placement expenses. Also consider living costs: in Queensland or NSW, weekly rent, groceries, and transport may range from A$500 to A$800 depending on lifestyle. However, these are estimates and not part of the course fees.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0, with no band below 6.5 (or equivalent English proficiency test). Academic requirements include a bachelor's degree in a health-related field, such as health science, biomedical science, or complementary medicine, with a minimum grade point average (GPA) or equivalent. Some background in human biology, chemistry, or nutrition may be expected. If you do not meet these entry requirements, Southern Cross University may offer pathway or foundation programs – contact SCU directly to explore options. All entry criteria are determined by the institution and may include interviews, prerequisite subjects, or relevant work experience. Always confirm specific requirements with the provider before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 24 weeks, totaling approximately 510 hours, which represents work-integrated learning. This may take the form of clinical placements in naturopathic clinics, internships in healthcare settings, or supervised practice in the university's teaching clinics. The work component is designed to provide real-world experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. It also helps build professional networks and prepares graduates for registration or employment. The exact structure and hours per week may vary; consult the provider for details. This practical element is a key feature of the program and contributes to the overall qualification.
The Master of Naturopathic Medicine is delivered at two campuses: Gold Coast Airport Development Park in Bilinga, Queensland, and Lismore campus in East Lismore, New South Wales. The Gold Coast campus is in a major city with over 200,000 students across numerous institutions, offering vibrant student life and ample public transport. Living costs in the Gold Coast are moderate, with weekly rent averaging around A$250–350 for shared accommodation. Lismore is a regional centre with a strong community feel, lower living costs (rent around A$180–250 per week), and fewer international students, which can offer a more intimate study experience. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is one of many in the health field. Choosing between these locations depends on your preference for urban or regional study environments.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and dependents. From July 2023, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. However, work must not compromise study. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Applying for the Master of Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University (SCU) involves these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) and this course (108576G) are currently registered. Compare with other options in complementary therapies.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit SCU's website (www.scu.edu.au) to find the application form for international students. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), a statement of purpose, and evidence of meeting prerequisites. Check application deadlines – typically 2–3 months before the intake start date.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once SCU assesses your application and issues a Letter of Offer, accept it and get your CoE. Then lodge your student visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge and attaching your CoE, OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement.
Choosing a Master's in Naturopathic Medicine requires careful consideration. This degree is suitable for graduates with a health science background who are passionate about natural medicine and want to practice as qualified naturopaths. The program includes significant clinical placement hours, so you should be prepared for hands-on work. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across all states, offering more than 26,000 courses. In the complementary therapies field, Southern Cross University is a reputable provider. However, consider the location: Gold Coast offers a bustling city environment with many international students, while Lismore provides a quieter regional experience. Also, think about post-study work rights: a Master's degree may make you eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) with a stay of 2-4 years depending on your qualification and location. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Southern Cross University's website to apply for the Master of Naturopathic Medicine today.
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Master of Naturopathic Medicine is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.