Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) (CRICOS course code 117054C) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Queensland over 2 years. This research-oriented program is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge and skills in the broad field of natural and physical sciences, including disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00025B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Queensland, a Group of Eight and Go8 university, is ranked among the world's top 50 and offers state-of-the-art research facilities across its three campuses in Queensland. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD or enter research-intensive careers, this degree provides a strong foundation. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and access to Australia's world-class research environment. The indicative tuition fee is A$105,208, with additional non-tuition costs of A$702. Note that fees are set by the university and subject to change—always confirm directly with The University of Queensland.
Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) (CRICOS course code 117054C) is a Masters Degree (Research) at AQF Level 9, delivered by The University of Queensland over 2 years (104 weeks). It falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01). This degree is ideal for students seeking to develop advanced research skills and contribute original knowledge to scientific disciplines. As a research degree, it involves a substantial independent project under supervision, culminating in a thesis. The University of Queensland, a CRICOS-registered provider (#00025B), is a government-funded university with a strong reputation for research excellence. International students must meet English language requirements, typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall. This course does not include a work component, but students may work part-time under their student visa conditions.
The Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) focuses on developing advanced research capabilities in the natural and physical sciences. Graduates typically learn to design and conduct independent research, analyse complex data, and communicate findings effectively. While specific syllabus varies by supervisor and project, students engage with scientific methodologies, critical thinking, and disciplinary knowledge. The broad field (01 Natural and Physical Sciences) encompasses sub-fields such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology, and earth sciences. This degree prepares students for further doctoral study or careers in research, industry, government, or education.
The duration of this course is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification—not a dual or combined degree. This is a full-time, on-campus research program. There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to engage in research activities, attend seminars, and meet with supervisors regularly. The University of Queensland offers three campuses for this course: Gatton (GATTON, QLD), Herston (HERSTON, QLD), and St Lucia (ST LUCIA, QLD). Each campus provides access to research facilities and resources.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$105,208, with non-tuition fees of A$702, bringing the estimated total to A$105,910. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fee information, always check The University of Queensland's website. International students should budget for additional costs: weekly rent in Brisbane ranges from A$200–400, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$50–100. Living costs vary by location.
English language requirements vary by provider—typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Masters Degree (Research), a higher band is common (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or 7.0). Prior qualifications: generally a bachelor's degree with honours or a relevant master's degree, with demonstrated research capability. Specific requirements are set by The University of Queensland—check the provider's website. Foundation/pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry. Consult the university for details.
No work component is included in this course. However, international students holding a Subclass 500 student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with study commitments.
This course is delivered at three campuses of The University of Queensland: Gatton Campus (GATTON, QLD), Herston Campus (HERSTON, QLD), and St Lucia Campus (ST LUCIA, QLD). Gatton is a rural campus near Brisbane, known for agricultural sciences. Herston is located near the Royal Brisbane Hospital, focused on health and medical research. St Lucia is the main campus along the Brisbane River, offering comprehensive research facilities. Brisbane, the state capital, has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community. All campuses are accessible via public transport.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance requirements, hold valid OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year), and dependents. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's search tool to filter by course level, field, and location. Verify that The University of Queensland (CRICOS 00025B) offers the Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) (117054C). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), a research proposal, and any other required documents. Submit an online application via The University of Queensland's admissions portal. Check application deadlines and entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Wait for visa grant, then plan your travel to Australia.
Choosing a research degree is a significant commitment. Consider the research environment and supervision at The University of Queensland—investigate potential supervisors and their projects. Evaluate the campus location: St Lucia offers urban proximity, Gatton a regional setting, and Herston a clinical research hub. Living costs in Brisbane are lower than Sydney but higher than regional areas. Ensure you understand the financial commitment: tuition, OSHC, and living expenses. Reflect on your career goals: this degree prepares you for PhD or research roles in academia, industry, or government. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, so compare options.
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Master of Philosophy (Natural and Physical Sciences) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Queensland. 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.