There are 43 Masters Degree (Research) courses offered by 9 CRICOS-registered providers across Queensland. This AQF Level 9 qualification is designed for students who wish to undertake a significant research project under supervision, leading to a thesis. Whether you are interested in natural sciences, engineering, health, or creative arts, Queensland offers a diverse range of research opportunities. In this guide, HeadStart Academy provides a comprehensive overview of Masters Degree (Research) programs in Queensland, including fee ranges, durations, top providers, and application steps. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trust.
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A Masters Degree (Research) is a postgraduate qualification at AQF Level 9 that focuses on independent research. It typically requires one to two years of full-time study and culminates in a thesis of up to 50,000 words. Entry usually requires a bachelor's degree with honours or equivalent research experience. This degree qualifies graduates for advanced professional practice or further study at Doctoral level (AQF Level 10). It differs from a coursework master's by emphasising original research under a supervisor.
Tuition fees for Masters Degree (Research) in Queensland range from A$31,300 to A$105,208 depending on the field of study, provider, and research intensity. The duration is typically 1 to 2 years full-time. Below is a breakdown by field of education as listed on CRICOS. Note that fees are indicative and do not include non-tuition costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and materials.
Queensland is home to several leading universities that offer Masters Degree (Research) programs. Here are the top providers by number of courses: - **James Cook University (00117J)** – Based in Townsville and Cairns, JCU is globally renowned for tropical research and offers 13 Masters Degree (Research) courses. - **University of the Sunshine Coast (01595D)** – Located on the Sunshine Coast, It offers 10 courses with a growing research profile in health and environment. - **The University of Queensland (00025B)** – In Brisbane, UQ is a top-tier research university with 7 courses, excelling in health, engineering, and science. - **Griffith University (00233E)** – With campuses in Brisbane and Gold Coast, Griffith offers 5 courses, strong in environmental and health research. - **Bond University (00017B)** – A private university on the Gold Coast, Bond provides 3 courses with smaller class sizes and research focus. - **Queensland University of Technology (QUT) (00213J)** – Based in Brisbane, QUT offers 2 industry-linked research courses. - **Central Queensland University (00219C)** – Regional provider with 1 course, offering flexible research options. - **University of Southern Queensland (00244B)** – Based in Toowoomba, USQ provides 1 distance-friendly research course.
Masters Degree (Research) programs in Queensland cover a wide range of disciplines. According to the CRICOS register, the following broad fields are offered: Natural and Physical Sciences, Engineering, Health, Society and Culture, Creative Arts, Education, Management and Commerce, Information Technology, Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies, Architecture and Building, and Mixed Field Programmes. Each field includes multiple specialised research areas. For example, within Natural and Physical Sciences, you can pursue research in biology, chemistry, physics, or earth sciences. Health fields include nursing, public health, and medical science. This diversity ensures that research students can find a program that matches their interests and career goals.
English language requirements vary by provider and course. Typically, for a Masters Degree (Research), you need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0, with no band less than 6.0. Some universities may accept other tests like TOEFL or PTE. It is important to check the specific requirements of your chosen provider. Some programs may have higher requirements for research degrees due to the thesis component.
International students studying a Masters Degree (Research) in Queensland typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). You must also have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your CRICOS-registered provider. For detailed visa guidance, see our Student Visa Subclass 500 page. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for a Masters Degree (Research) in Queensland is straightforward when you follow these three steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use our directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure your chosen provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, including your previous qualifications and English language test scores. Submit your application with all required documents (transcripts, research proposal, references) before the deadline. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare evidence of finances, OSHC, and GTE statement.
Queensland offers a vibrant lifestyle with a mix of urban and natural environments. Brisbane, the state capital, has a student population of over 150,000, with excellent public transport. The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast also host major universities. Living costs in Brisbane are around AUD 1,500–2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. Regional areas like Townsville and Cairns offer lower costs but a tropical climate. Consider the research strengths of each university: JCU excels in marine and tropical science, while UQ is strong in health and engineering. Queensland's research infrastructure, including the Queensland Brain Institute and the Translational Research Institute, provides excellent facilities.
Ready to start your research journey in Queensland? Explore CRICOS-registered providers and find your perfect program.
Showing 60 masters degree (research) courses from 17 CRICOS providers in Queensland.
Counted from the official register for QLD: 60 non-expired CRICOS courses across 17 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.