Master of Philosophy (CRICOS course code 119304G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Federation University Australia over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 qualification sits within the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (019999) and is designed for international students who wish to pursue advanced research in a supportive academic environment. Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) is a government-funded institution with campuses across Victoria, offering this program at Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Federation University meets the rigorous standards of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and legal protections. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, which lists 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses. Use this page to explore key details: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa steps. Note: This is a research degree without a mandatory work component, and fees shown are indicative only.
The Master of Philosophy (CRICOS 119304G) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by Federation University Australia over 2 years (104 weeks). It is classified under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (019999) — a broad category encompassing various scientific disciplines. This research-oriented program allows students to undertake a supervised research project culminating in a thesis. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students who meet the entry requirements and wish to develop advanced research skills. Federation University is a government-owned institution with a strong regional presence, operating campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, and Gippsland, Victoria. The course is taught entirely in English, and no dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. All data on this page is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative; students should verify details directly with the university.
As a research degree, the Master of Philosophy does not have a prescribed curriculum of coursework subjects. Instead, students undertake original research under the supervision of an academic advisor, producing a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field. The field of Natural and Physical Sciences (019999) covers areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, and interdisciplinary scientific studies. Graduates of this level are expected to demonstrate systematic and critical understanding of a substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of a field of research or professional practice. They develop skills in research methodology, data analysis, scholarly writing, and ethical research conduct. While specific research topics vary by supervisor and campus, the program is designed to prepare students for further doctoral study or research-intensive careers. It is important to note that the Master of Philosophy is distinct from a coursework master's degree; it focuses entirely on research outputs.
The Master of Philosophy is a 2-year full-time program, listed as 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual degree options are available. As a research degree, study mode is primarily on-campus, with access to laboratories, libraries, and supervision. There are no foundations studies or pathway options integrated into this specific course. International students should plan their visa duration accordingly: the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) will cover the full 2 years. Given the research nature, students may need to extend their visa if the thesis takes longer to complete, subject to Department of Home Affairs conditions.
The tuition fee for the Master of Philosophy is A$72,000 for the full 2-year program (indicative, as per CRICOS register April 2026). Non-tuition fees are A$455, making the estimated total A$72,455. These fees are set by Federation University Australia and are subject to change. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC — mandatory for student visa holders), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For current fees and a detailed breakdown, visit Federation University's official website at www.federation.edu.au. HeadStart Academy strongly advises confirming all costs directly with the institution before applying, as fees may vary annually.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a research master's at Federation University, a higher band (e.g., IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0) is common. Prior qualifications expected include a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a relevant discipline, with evidence of research capability (e.g., a research project or thesis in undergraduate studies). Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal and attend an interview. Foundation or pathway options are not attached to this course; however, Federation University may offer pre-master's or research preparation programs for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements. Check the university's website for precise criteria. Note: Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake any industry placement, internship, or work experience as part of their program. However, the student visa (Subclass 500) allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Students may seek part-time employment to support their living costs, subject to visa conditions. For research students, teaching assistantships or research assistant roles may be available within the university, but these are not part of the course curriculum. Always check your visa conditions before commencing any work.
The Master of Philosophy is delivered at three campuses of Federation University Australia in Victoria: - Federation University Ballarat (Ballarat, VIC) - Federation University Berwick (Berwick, VIC) - Federation University Gippsland (Churchill, VIC) Ballarat is a regional city with a population of approximately 110,000, home to several other CRICOS-registered providers. Typical living costs in Ballarat are lower than in Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$250–350, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$30–50. Berwick is a suburb of Melbourne, about 45 km from the CBD, with cheaper rent than inner Melbourne (A$350–450 per week) but good train connections. Gippsland (Churchill) is a rural town; rent is around A$200–300 per week. All campuses are accessible by public transport and offer student support services. International students should consider location preferences and living costs when choosing a campus.
International students enrolling in the Master of Philosophy will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: (1) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered course, (2) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, (3) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, (4) sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), and travel, and (5) English language proficiency (usually IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents can also work under certain conditions. Visa processing times vary; apply early. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. Consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au for personalized guidance.
Applying for the Master of Philosophy at Federation University Australia involves three key steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research), field (Natural and Physical Sciences), and location (Victoria). Verify that the provider is CRICOS-registered (Federation University: 00103D). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Federation University's website (www.federation.edu.au) for specific entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, research proposal, and references through their online application portal. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence. Visa grants can take weeks to months, so start early.
Start your journey to studying in Australia — explore all courses on HeadStart Academy.
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.