There are 142 Masters Degree (Research) courses offered by 6 CRICOS-registered providers across Western Australia. These programs are designed for students who want to pursue advanced research in their field, culminating in a thesis or equivalent work. Western Australia is home to world-class universities and research institutions, with strong links to industries in mining, energy, health, and agriculture. Whether you're interested in the natural and physical sciences, engineering, health, or society and culture, you'll find a research degree that matches your ambitions. Perth, the state capital, offers a vibrant student lifestyle with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne, and campuses are well connected by public transport. All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act.
A Masters Degree (Research) is an AQF Level 9 qualification focused on independent research and thesis writing. It typically requires at least one year of full-time study, but can extend up to three years. Entry usually requires a bachelor's degree with honours or a postgraduate diploma with research components. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 6.0–7.0 overall. This degree qualifies graduates for professional roles in research, academia, or industry R&D, and can be a pathway to a Doctoral Degree (PhD).
Tuition fees for Masters Degree (Research) in Western Australia range from A$38,400 to A$133,400 total, depending on the provider and field of study. Duration ranges from 1 to 3 years full-time. The table below shows indicative tuition ranges and durations by broad field of education. Note: Non-tuition fees, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and living costs (approximately A$450–A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport in Perth) are additional. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
Here are the top CRICOS-registered providers offering Masters Degree (Research) courses in Western Australia:
Masters Degree (Research) in Western Australia covers 11 broad fields of education. Society and Culture leads with the most courses, followed by Health and Natural and Physical Sciences. You'll also find options in Information Technology, Engineering, Education, Creative Arts, Architecture and Building, Agriculture and Environmental Studies, Management and Commerce, and Mixed Field Programmes. This diversity means you can pursue research in nearly any discipline, from anthropology to zoology, in a supportive academic environment.
English language requirements vary by provider. For a Masters Degree (Research), most institutions require an IELTS overall band of 6.0 to 7.0, with no band below 6.0. Some providers accept PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Higher scores may be needed for fields like health or education. Always check the provider's specific requirements as they can differ.
To study a Masters Degree (Research) in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and sufficient English proficiency. OSHC must be purchased for the duration of your visa. After receiving your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, you can apply for the visa. For detailed guidance, see our [Student Visa Subclass 500 page](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500). Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult MARA for advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your Masters Degree (Research) in Western Australia:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use our free search to filter Masters Degree (Research) by field, city, and provider. All courses listed are from the official CRICOS register. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Meet entry requirements (academic qualifications and English test scores), prepare a research proposal, and submit your application before deadlines. Providers may have different intake periods. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a Confirmation of Enrolment. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) with your GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC. Visit the Department of Home Affairs for full details.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Perth's median weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$350, and public transport is affordable with student concessions. The state has a strong economy, particularly in mining and resources, providing job opportunities for research graduates. With six providers offering research masters, you'll have options in both city and regional locations. Consider your field of interest, preferred city size, and campus environment when deciding.
Ready to start your Masters Degree (Research) journey in WA? Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to explore all 142 CRICOS-registered courses in Western Australia.
Showing 80 masters degree (research) courses from 5 CRICOS providers in Western Australia.
Counted from the official register for WA: 146 non-expired CRICOS courses across 10 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.