Master by Research (CRICOS course code 116880K) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in philosophy and related fields, contributing original knowledge through a supervised research project. Charles Darwin University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00300K), offers this course across multiple campuses in the Northern Territory and mainland Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider with a strong reputation for research, CDU provides international students with access to Australia's world-class education system under the protections of the ESOS Act. Whether you plan to study in Alice Springs, Darwin, Sydney, or Brisbane, this course offers flexibility and academic rigour. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you explore over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across 1,500 providers. Use this page as your starting point to understand fees, locations, visa requirements, and more for Master by Research at CDU.
Master by Research (CRICOS course code 116880K) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years (104 weeks). The course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically Philosophy (091701). It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies, and no mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. This research degree requires students to complete a substantial research project under academic supervision, culminating in a thesis. As a CRICOS-registered course (116880K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. CDU is a public university established by the Northern Territory Government, ensuring quality education and student support services.
As a Master by Research in Philosophy, you will engage in advanced scholarly inquiry, developing skills in critical analysis, argumentation, and independent research. The program typically involves coursework in research methodologies and a supervised thesis on a chosen topic within philosophy. You will learn to formulate research questions, conduct literature reviews, apply philosophical methods, and present findings in written and oral forms. Graduates emerge with the ability to contribute original knowledge to the field, preparing them for doctoral studies or careers in academia, policy, or other research-intensive roles. While the exact syllabus is set by CDU, the general focus aligns with AQF Level 9 outcomes: systematic understanding of knowledge, specialised cognitive and technical skills, and the capacity for independent research.
The Master by Research is a 2-year full-time program, recorded as 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or integrated foundation studies. The course does not include a mandatory work component, though students may have opportunities for casual work under student visa conditions. Delivery modes vary by campus; some components may be offered online or in blended format. Check with CDU for specific study mode options. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026): tuition is A$67,410 for the full program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total is A$67,410. These fees are set by Charles Darwin University and subject to change. Important additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses – the Australian Government recommends at least A$21,041 per year (including accommodation, food, transport); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with CDU at www.cdu.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Degree (Research), CDU generally expects an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: applicants usually need a recognised Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with a substantial research component or equivalent. Some candidates may enter with a Graduate Diploma or Honours degree. Foundation or pathway options may be available through CDU International College or other providers – contact CDU for details. Note: these are general guidelines; entry requirements are set by CDU and may change. Always verify on the provider's website.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities are available on and off campus, but are not part of the curriculum.
This course is delivered at six CRICOS-registered locations: Alice Springs Campus in Alice Springs, NT; Casuarina Campus in Casuarina, NT (a suburb of Darwin); Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City, NT; Level 10, 815 George Street in Sydney, NSW; Level 11, 410 Ann Street (Brisbane campus) in Brisbane, QLD; and Waterfront Campus in Darwin City, NT. Each campus offers unique study environments. Darwin's campuses provide proximity to tropical research settings, while Sydney and Brisbane campuses offer metropolitan experiences with extensive transport networks. The Northern Territory has a smaller international student population compared to Sydney or Brisbane, offering a more personalised study experience. Living costs vary: Darwin's weekly rent averages A$300–A$450, while Sydney's is around A$500–A$700. Brisbane is more moderate at A$350–A$500.
To study Master by Research at Charles Darwin University as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CDU, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency evidence. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory – it provides health insurance for the duration of your stay. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master by Research at Charles Darwin University (CDU):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to compare courses and providers. Filter by study level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Society and Culture – Philosophy), and location (NT, NSW, QLD). Ensure you understand the entry requirements and fees.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to CDU through their international admissions portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), research proposal, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines – CDU typically has multiple intakes per year.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once CDU issues your CoE, apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Visa processing times vary – apply early.
The Northern Territory offers a unique study experience with a strong focus on Indigenous culture, tropical environments, and research opportunities in fields like environmental science and remote health. Darwin, the capital, has a population of around 150,000 and a vibrant multicultural community. Public transport includes buses and a small ferry network. Casuarina and Waterfront campuses are well-connected. The cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, but certain goods may be more expensive due to remoteness. The Territory has fewer CRICOS-registered providers than larger states – around 20 institutions offer courses. For philosophy research, CDU's unique context can be a draw. Consider whether you prefer a close-knit academic community or a bustling city life when choosing your campus.
Ready to start your research journey? Explore Master by Research at Charles Darwin University and begin your application process today.
Master by Research is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.