Master of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119293E) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Federation University Australia over 2 years. This program falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, allowing students to pursue in-depth research in areas such as social sciences, humanities, or cultural studies. As a research degree, it emphasises independent study under supervision, culminating in a thesis. Federation University Australia is a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00103D) with campuses across Victoria, offering students access to supportive learning environments and strong research facilities. Whether you aim to advance your career or prepare for a PhD, this course provides a pathway to high-level expertise in your chosen field.
Master of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119293E) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by Federation University Australia over 2 years (104 weeks). The program is classified under field of education 099999 - Society and Culture, n.e.c., meaning it covers a broad range of social and cultural inquiry. Unlike coursework masters, this research degree focuses on producing original knowledge under academic supervision. International students benefit from CRICOS registration, ensuring the course meets Australian quality standards and ESOS Act protections. With three delivery locations in Victoria – Ballarat, Berwick, and Churchill – you can choose a campus that fits your lifestyle and research interests.
As a research master's degree, the Master of Philosophy does not have a prescribed set of subjects. Instead, you will develop a research proposal, undertake a literature review, conduct original research (qualitative or quantitative), and write a thesis of approximately 40,000–60,000 words. You will be assigned a supervisory panel who will guide your project. Graduates typically gain advanced analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, as well as deep expertise in a specific area of Society and Culture. This program is ideal if you are passionate about contributing new knowledge to fields such as anthropology, sociology, history, or cultural studies.
The Master of Philosophy is listed on the CRICOS register as a 2-year program (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. While the CRICOS registration specifies full-time on-campus study, some supervision may be conducted remotely depending on the provider and research area. You should confirm the exact study mode with Federation University Australia. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition fee is A$59,000, with non-tuition fees of A$455, bringing the estimated total to A$59,455. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Victoria vary by city; for example, weekly rent in Ballarat averages A$200–$350, while in Melbourne (proximate to Berwick) it could be A$250–$450. Always confirm current fees with Federation University Australia at www.federation.edu.au before applying.
Entry requirements for the Master of Philosophy vary by provider and research area. Typically, you need a bachelor's degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master's degree with a research component. Some providers may accept a bachelor's degree with relevant professional experience. English language proficiency is required – for example, an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0) is common for research degrees. Exact requirements are set by Federation University Australia; contact them directly. If you do not meet the academic criteria, pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate may be available – refer to the provider for options.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a research student, you may have opportunities for casual teaching or research assistance within the university. These are not part of the formal course requirements. International student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Federation University Australia offers this course at three campuses across Victoria: Ballarat (Mt Helen campus), Berwick (suburban Melbourne), and Churchill (Gippsland). Ballarat is a regional city with a lower cost of living and a strong student community. Berwick is part of Melbourne's outer southeast, with good public transport links to the city centre. Churchill is in the Latrobe Valley, offering a quieter study environment. All campuses are CRICOS-registered and provide access to libraries, research labs, and student support services. When choosing a location, consider factors like living costs, research supervision availability, and your personal preferences.
International students in Australia on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must study a CRICOS-registered course and maintain full-time enrolment. This course qualifies for that visa. Visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if any). Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Victoria is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of courses, making it a popular destination for international students. With cities like Melbourne (ranked among the world's most liveable) and regional centres like Ballarat and Churchill, you can choose between vibrant urban life and peaceful regional settings. Living costs in regional Victoria are generally lower than in Melbourne; for example, weekly rent in Ballarat is around A$200–$350, while in Melbourne it ranges A$300–$500. Public transport in regional areas is reliable, with V/Line trains connecting Ballarat, Berwick, and Churchill to Melbourne. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, ensuring quality education and consumer protection.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy's tools to compare courses and providers, filtering by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to Federation University Australia – check entry requirements, prepare your research proposal, arrange English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa at homeaffairs.gov.au. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Explore more research master's courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy, or contact Federation University Australia directly for application details.
Master of Philosophy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.