A guide to Postgraduate Programs and Completing Masters in Australia

After completing an undergraduate degree, students could choose to attend graduate school in Australia and get a post graduate qualification. Whether its to earn a masters or Ph.D. degree, study medicine, attend business school or law school, Australia has everything to offer.

Postgraduate courses in Australia are offered by both universities and private colleges and are regulated under the Australian Qualifications Framework. Some professional courses such as pharmacy, medicine and architecture are only offered by universities. Admission to most postgraduate study courses in Australia is highly competitive, and may have strict requirements of English language. Each education provider defines their own requirements on their website.

The kind of Students visa that allows students to undertake a postgraduate course in Australia could differ from the one for Undergraduate study.

Why Study a Master’s Degree in Australia?

1. World-Class Education: Australian universities are globally recognized for their research and teaching quality, with many institutions consistently ranking among the top in the world.
2. Diverse Study Options: A wide range of master’s programs are available, including coursework, research, and professional degrees across various fields.
3. Post-Study Work Opportunities: Australia’s post-study work visa allows international graduates to gain practical experience in the country.
4. Cultural Diversity: Australia’s multicultural society ensures that international students feel welcomed and supported.
5. High Quality of Life: With its beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and safe environment, Australia is an excellent place to live and study.

Types of Postgraduate Qualifications

In Australia, postgraduate education is categorized into several qualifications, which include:

Graduate certificate/diploma

Designed for specific vocational purposes and help in broadening of skills already gained in an undergraduate program or the development of new skills and knowledge. These courses take approximately 6 months to one year full time study after earning a Bachelor level degree. Some graduate diploma programs may extend to two years of full-time study. Entry usually requires a bachelor degree or advanced diploma. Exceptions may be made in the case of less academically qualified applicants with appropriate work experience.

Graduate Diploma

A one-year program that offers more in-depth study than a graduate certificate, often acting as a pathway to a Master’s degree.

Master’s Degree

Generally a two-year program (though some can be completed in one year), a Master’s degree allows for specialization in a particular area of study and can be coursework or research-based.

Masters degree (coursework): These consist of coursework, project work and research in varying combinations. Entry typically requires prior completion of a bachelor degree, a bachelor degree (honours) or a graduate certificate or diploma.

Masters degree (research): These are at least two-thirds research and include a substantial thesis or research project, which is often externally assessed. Entry normally requires a bachelor degree (honours) or masters preliminary year.

Masters degree (extended): These may consist of a work-based project. Entry requires a relevant qualification and professional experience, or extensive relevant professional experience.

Doctorate (PhD)

The highest level of academic qualification, usually requiring three to four years of research.

Research degree: Research degrees offer a doctorate after successful completion. They are usually completed over three or four years of full-time study. The doctoral degree may be offered in two formats:

Research doctorate (PhD): These consist mainly of supervised research, where students undertake advanced research resulting in the completion of a thesis. Entry requires a masters degree by research or a bachelor degree (honours).

Professional doctorate: These combine coursework and research for professionals wanting to advance their knowledge in their field without the research commitment of a PhD. Entry typically requires a masters degree by research or a bachelor degree (honours). In addition, considerable professional experience is required either before or during the course.

Many graduate programs in Australia require their applicants to have a certain amount of work experience before applying to their programs. Make sure you thoroughly research all the programs to which you plan to apply to find out if they require work experience.

Types of Courses Available

Australian universities offer a wide range of postgraduate courses across various disciplines. Some of the most popular fields include:

• Business and Management: MBA programs and specialized courses in areas like marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
• Engineering and IT: Courses focusing on software engineering, data science, and information technology.
• Health Sciences: Programs in public health, nursing, and healthcare management.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Courses in psychology, education, and international relations.
• Creative Arts: Programs in design, film, and performing arts.

Popular Options for Masters for International Students

International students often gravitate towards specific Master’s programs that offer strong career prospects and align with their interests. Some of the most sought-after Master’s degrees include:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Highly regarded for its focus on leadership and strategic thinking.
• Master of Information Technology (MIT): In demand due to the growing tech industry.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Increasingly popular as global health issues gain prominence.
• Master of Engineering: Beneficial for those looking to advance in technical fields.
• Master of Education (M.Ed.): Ideal for those pursuing careers in teaching, educational leadership, or policy.

Staying in Australia After Completing Your Master’s

Many international students wish to remain in Australia after graduation. Fortunately, the Australian government offers options for graduates to stay and work. Post study visa options allow international students who have completed a degree in Australia to live and work in the country for up to 18 months (or up to 24 months for certain degrees).

Costs of Masters in Australia

The cost of pursuing a Master’s degree in Australia can vary significantly depending on the university and program. On average, international students can expect to pay between AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year. Additionally, living expenses in Australia can range from AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 annually, depending on the city and lifestyle. It’s essential to budget accordingly and explore scholarship opportunities that can help alleviate financial burdens.

Please note that fees vary widely and should always be sourced from the relevant institution. Some courses, such as medicine and veterinary science, may have higher course fee.

Some Universities Offering Masters

Australia is home to several prestigious universities known for their strong postgraduate programs. Some of the well known institutions include:

• The Australian National University (ANU): Renowned for its research and academic excellence.
• The University of Melbourne: Offers a wide range of Master’s programs and is highly regarded globally.
• The University of Sydney: Known for its diverse course offerings and vibrant campus life.
• Monash University: Offers innovative programs and strong industry connections.
• The University of Queensland (UQ): Recognized for its research output and quality education.

Application Process

• Choose a Program and University: Research universities and programs that align with your career goals and interests.
• Prepare Your Documents: Gather academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, resume, personal statement, and references.
• Apply Online: Most universities have online application portals. Follow the specific instructions provided by each institution.
• Pay Application Fees: Application fees vary by university, typically ranging from AUD 50 to AUD 125.
• Await Offer Letter: Successful applicants will receive an offer letter, which can be conditional or unconditional.
• Accept the Offer: Accept the offer and apply for a Visa or pay the tuition deposit to secure your place.