Masters (MS) in Australia - Top Universities, Courses & Cost

Deep Blue Ocean, sandy beaches, pleasant weather, and barbeques in the sun – Australia sure paints a charming picture. But there’s so much more to the country. For students who swear by Australian universities, the breathtaking landscapes are only an added bonus. A globally recognised higher education system is what makes Australia boast of having the third-highest number of international students in the world.

Why study master’s in Australia?

Australia offers the full package of life-enriching experiences and superior academic training which makes students international choose the location every year. Here are the most compelling reasons to pursue your masters in Australia:

• Global rankings: 9 Australian universities are ranked among the world’s top 100 as per QS rankings 2024

• Post-Study Work Opportunities: Graduates can benefit from post-study work visas, enabling them to gain valuable work experience in Australia.

• Excellent research opportunities in niche subjects: Australian institutions offer unparalleled quality for research in most of the emerging subjects such as environmental sciences. The country’s marine biologists are even allowed to explore the Great Barrier Reef for their master’s research

• Internationally recognised programmes: No matter which employer or higher education institution – all the Australian degrees are not only accepted but also respected across the globe

• Scholarship Opportunities: Various scholarships are available for international students, ranging from partial to full tuition coverage, making education more accessible.

Types of master’s degrees in Australia

Masters in Australia is available in various degree formats based on your undergraduate degree since some are designed to boost the career while others are a pathway to switch to a new one.

1. Traditional masters
   These are academic courses that allow you to study a specific subject in depth so that you become an expert in the same. With an old and respected education system, Australia offers some of the best choices to such aspirants.

2. Change of direction masters
   This is relevant if you plan to switch academic pathways or add an extra set of expertise in your specialisation. You should have the basic knowledge of the core principles in your new subject before you get the advanced training in the specialisation.

3. Graduate entry qualifications
   This can be your option if you have already completed an undergraduate degree and plan to professionally qualify in the same field. For instance, if you plan to become a teacher then you can opt for a Graduate Diploma or Master of Teaching to exhibit your professional education in addition to your academic knowledge in the field. But do check that these qualifications should be recognised in your home country as well.

4. Professional development masters
   This a perfect course program if you plan to enhance your career through additional training. For instance, you might be an experienced teacher with plans to develop education management skills. Besides, unlike other master’s degrees, professional master’s usually requires existing qualifications and experience.

Eligibility criteria to study Master’s courses in Australia

An undergraduate degree is the basic requirement. There are additional different sets of requirements based on the course and institution you choose. For instance, some may require a GPA of 4.0 or equal, while others need a minimum of 60% in your undergraduate degree. A good score in English-language proficiency tests such as IELTS is also an important factor.

Application process to study Master’s in Australia

The application process to study Master’s in Australia typically involves the following steps:

1. Research and choose a course: Explore the available Master’s programs in Australia and identify the one that aligns with your academic and career goals. Consider factors such as course content, university rankings, location, and eligibility requirements.

2. Meet the entry requirements: Check the entry requirements for your chosen program, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores), and any specific prerequisites. Ensure that you meet the minimum criteria before proceeding with the application.

3. Prepare supporting documents: Gather the necessary supporting documents, which may include academic transcripts, degree certificates, proof of English language proficiency, curriculum vitae (CV), statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a valid passport.

4. Apply online: Most Australian universities have online application portals where you can create an account and submit your application. Fill in the required information accurately and upload the supporting documents.

5. Pay application fee: Some universities require an application fee, which varies depending on the institution. Pay the fee as instructed during the application process.

6. Await admission decision: After submitting your application, the university will review your profile and make an admission decision. This process may take a few weeks to a couple of months. Stay in touch with the university's admissions office for any updates or additional requirements.

7. Accept offer and obtain confirmation of enrollment (CoE): If you receive an offer of admission, carefully review the terms and conditions, including tuition fees, scholarships, and any specific requirements. If you decide to accept the offer, follow the instructions provided to secure your place and obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from the university.

8. Apply for student visa: Once you have the CoE, apply for a student visa (subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure that you meet the visa requirements, including health insurance coverage.

9. Prepare for departure: Make necessary arrangements for accommodation, travel, and finances. Research about the city or town where you will be studying and familiarize yourself with the Australian culture and lifestyle.

It's important to note that the application process may vary slightly between universities and courses, so it's recommended to visit the official websites of the universities you are interested in to get detailed and up-to-date information on their specific application procedures.

Top universities to study Master’s in Australia

Here is a list of top universities to study Master’s in Australia:

• The University of Melbourne

• The Australian National University (ANU)

• The University of Sydney

• The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

• The University of Queensland (UQ)

• Monash University

• The University of Western Australia (UWA)

• The University of Adelaide

• RMIT University

• The University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Cost of studying MS in Australia

In Australia, the fees for postgraduation varies from university to university with no intervention from the government. Therefore, there can be a significant difference in the cost of studying. Although, the cost of master’s programs is between AUD 22,000 and AUD 50,000 per year for international students.

Note: The tuition fees for programs like Master’s in the Arts and Humanities is lower while science-based programs will be on the higher side. In addition, subjects like Veterinary Science and Medicine could be comparatively expensive.

Scholarship for Master’s in Australia

Here is a table showcasing popular scholarship programs for Indian students to study in Australia:

Know more about scholarships to study in Australia

Duration of a master’s degree

The duration of the master’s degree depends upon the type of program and course content you select. Usually, a master’s degree takes one to two years to complete.

Note: The courses which include foundational training or vocational placements are for a longer duration (mostly in the case of change of direction or professional master’s program)

Career scope after Master’s in Australia

According to the 2020 Graduate Outcomes Survey, the median salary of postgraduate coursework graduates was $87,400, while for postgraduate research graduates it was $93,000.

So, in a nutshell, whether you want to pursue your master’s in creative arts, engineering, health, education or the sciences, Australian universities offer a variety of specialisations and subjects at the postgraduate level. Besides, the master’s qualifications from an Australian institution are globally recognised by all employers to give you a good head start upon graduation.

Jobs after Master’s in Australia

After completing a Master’s degree in Australia, international students have several job opportunities available to them. Here are some potential career paths and job options:

1. Professional roles: Graduates can pursue professional roles related to their field of study, such as engineering, finance, information technology, healthcare, marketing, and more. These roles may include positions like engineers, financial analysts, IT consultants, healthcare administrators, marketing executives, and project managers.

2. Research and academia: Students who have completed research-focused Master’s programs may choose to pursue careers in research institutions or academic settings. They can work as research associates, and research analysts, or continue their studies and pursue a PhD for a career in academia.

3. Entrepreneurship and start-ups: Australia has a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it an attractive destination for individuals looking to start their own businesses or join start-up ventures. Graduates with innovative ideas and entrepreneurial skills can explore opportunities in various industries and sectors.

4. Graduate programs and internships: Many companies and organisations in Australia offer structured graduate programs or internships targeted at recent Master’s graduates. These programs provide valuable work experience, training, and mentorship opportunities to kickstart a professional career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ques 1: Is 1-year Master’s degree valid in Australia?

Ans: Yes, 1-year Master’s degrees are valid and widely recognized in Australia. Australian universities offer a range of Master’s programs, including both 1-year and 2-year options, depending on the field of study and the specific program.

The duration of a Master’s degree can vary depending on factors such as the academic requirements, credit structure, and the intensity of the program. Many universities in Australia offer accelerated or intensive programs that allow students to complete their Master’s degree in a shorter timeframe, typically within 1 year.

Ques 2: How much gap is accepted for Master’s in Australia?

Ans: The acceptance of a gap year or gap in studies for Master’s in Australia can vary depending on the university and program. While some universities may have specific policies regarding gaps in studies, many universities in Australia are generally open to considering applications from students who have taken a gap year or have had a gap in their studies.

Ques 3: Is Australia good for Master’s degree?

Ans: Australia is an excellent choice for a Master’s degree due to its high-quality education, diverse range of programs, strong research opportunities, global recognition, and multicultural environment. Australian universities are renowned for their academic excellence and offer a wide array of specialised programs across various disciplines. A Master’s degree from Australia is highly respected worldwide, opening doors to global career opportunities. Moreover, the multicultural environment provides a rich learning experience and exposure to diverse perspectives.

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