Master's Degree Sociology Full Time

Combined Master of Arts and Social Sciences

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

065349M

CRICOS provider code

00098G

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$94,500 total

Per year

A$40,279/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Combined Master of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales (CRICOS 065349M) is an advanced postgraduate course designed for those seeking to deepen their understanding of society through multidisciplinary perspectives. Students explore key issues in sociology, integrating insights from both the arts and social sciences to critically examine cultural, social, and institutional phenomena. The course provides robust training in research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and analytical tools used in contemporary social inquiry.

This program typically spans 2.5 years of full-time study and is structured around units of study that each carry specific credit points, in alignment with Australian postgraduate qualification standards. The curriculum blends core subjects with electives, allowing students to tailor their learning to areas like policy analysis, cultural studies, social research, and ethics. A significant component of the degree often involves a capstone project or substantial research thesis, where students apply their knowledge to real-world sociological challenges or scholarly questions.

Throughout the course, students develop skills in critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative analysis, academic writing, and effective communication. The program suits graduates from humanities, social sciences, or related fields who aspire to research, policy, or community engagement roles, or who wish to progress to doctoral studies. With strong ties to Sydney’s diverse social landscape and industry partners, students gain valuable insights relevant to the Australian context.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5, or equivalent). During their studies, student visa holders maintain work rights (up to 48 hours per fortnight) and, upon graduation, may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Applicants should confirm all requirements and course details on the official UNSW and CRICOS sites.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Sociologist or Social Researcher
Policy Analyst in government or NGOs
Community Program Manager
Research Officer in academic or private sectors
Human Services or Social Policy Advisor
Roles in education, advocacy, and consultancy within Australian social and cultural organisations

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Combined Master of Arts and Social Sciences at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 2.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$94,500 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Sociologist or Social ResearcherPolicy Analyst in government or NGOsCommunity Program ManagerResearch Officer in academic or private sectorsHuman Services or Social Policy AdvisorRoles in education, advocacy, and consultancy within Australian social and cultural organisations

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