Are you looking for cheap Master’s courses in Australia? If yes, you’re not alone! Many students from South Asia dream of studying in Australia but worry about high tuition fees. The good news? There are many affordable Master’s programs available in Australia. In this guide, I’ll help you understand cheap master’s courses in Australia to make your study abroad journey easier and more affordable.
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5 Cheapest Master’s Courses in Australia
Not all Master’s programs have the same tuition fees. Some courses are more affordable than others. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can still find high-quality education at a lower cost. Below, I’ve listed the 5 cheapest Master’s degrees in Australia along with their tuition fees, university options, and career prospects.
1. Master’s in Business & Management
A Master’s in Business & Management in Australia is ideal if you want to build a career in finance, marketing, human resources, or entrepreneurship. This degree helps you develop leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills, which are highly valued by employers.
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Duration | Career Options |
| University of Southern Queensland | AUD 24,000 – AUD 30,000 | 1.5 – 2 years | Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, HR Manager |
| Charles Sturt University | AUD 26,000 – AUD 32,000 | 1.5 – 2 years | Financial Analyst, Entrepreneur, Consultant |
Why Choose This Course?
- High demand for business graduates.
- Opportunity to work in Australia after graduation.
- Options to specialise in marketing, finance, HR, and more.
2. Master’s in IT & Computer Science
A Master’s in IT & Computer Science in Australia is a great choice if you want a career in software development, cybersecurity, data science, or AI. With Australia’s growing tech industry, this degree offers high job demand and excellent salary prospects.
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Duration | Career Options |
| Edith Cowan University | AUD 22,000 – AUD 28,000 | 2 years | Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst |
| Southern Cross University | AUD 24,000 – AUD 30,000 | 2 years | IT Consultant, Web Developer, Cloud Engineer |
Why Choose This Course?
- High salary potential in the IT sector.
- Strong demand for tech professionals in Australia.
- Many job opportunities in cybersecurity, AI, and software development.
3. Master’s in Engineering
A Master’s in Engineering is a great choice if you want to build a career in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Australia has a high demand for engineers, and this degree can open doors to well-paying jobs. Many universities offer affordable tuition fees, making it a budget-friendly option for international students.
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Duration | Career Options |
| Federation University | AUD 24,000 – AUD 30,000 | 2 years | Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | AUD 25,000 – AUD 30,000 | 2 years | Robotics Engineer, Structural Engineer, Automotive Engineer |
Why Choose This Course?
- Engineers are in high demand in Australia.
- Opportunities to work in construction, IT, and renewable energy.
- Good salary prospects and job security.
Also Read:
- Most Expensive Colleges in Australia: Top-Ranked Universities & Their Fees
- Pros and Cons of Living in Australia for International Students in 2025
4. Master’s in Healthcare & Nursing
A Master’s in Healthcare & Nursing is a great choice if you want a stable and rewarding career in the medical field. Australia has a high demand for healthcare professionals, making it easier to find job opportunities after graduation. This degree can lead to roles in hospitals, clinics, research, and public health.
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Duration | Career Options |
| Charles Sturt University | AUD 25,000 – AUD 30,000 | 2 years | Registered Nurse, Healthcare Administrator, Public Health Officer |
| Southern Cross University | AUD 26,000 – AUD 30,000 | 2 years | Clinical Researcher, Nursing Manager, Mental Health Nurse |
Why Choose This Course?
- Permanent residency options are available.
- High demand for nurses and healthcare professionals.
- Opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions.
A Master’s in Social Sciences & Humanities is perfect for students who want to explore subjects like psychology, international relations, journalism, or public policy. This degree helps you understand society, culture, and human behavior. It also opens doors to careers in research, government, media, and NGOs.
| University | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Duration | Career Options |
| University of Southern Queensland | AUD 22,000 – AUD 27,000 | 2 years | Social Worker, Journalist, Policy Analyst |
| Edith Cowan University | AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000 | 2 years | Human Rights Officer, Researcher, NGO Manager |
Why Choose This Course?
- Wide range of career opportunities in government, media, and NGOs.
- Strong focus on social impact and research.
- Opportunities to work in Australia or internationally.
Cheapest Universities in Australia for a Master’s Degree
Many universities in Australia offer quality education at lower tuition fees. These universities offer cheap Master’s courses in Australia without compromising on quality. Choosing one of these can help you save money while getting a good education. Here’s a list of some affordable universities:
| University | Average Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Location |
| University of Southern Queensland | AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000 | Queensland |
| Charles Sturt University | AUD 22,000 – AUD 30,000 | New South Wales |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | AUD 22,500 – AUD 26,500 | Queensland |
| Federation University Australia | AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000 | Victoria |
| Southern Cross University | AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,000 | New South Wales |
| Edith Cowan University | AUD 25,000 – AUD 30,000 | Western Australia |
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Master’s in Australia
Before choosing a university, it’s important to understand what makes up the total cost of studying. Make sure to choose a university in an affordable city, apply for scholarships, and manage your expenses wisely. Here are some key factors:
- Tuition Fees – Tuition fees vary across universities. Public universities are usually cheaper than private ones, making them a better option for budget-conscious students.
- Living Costs – The cost of living in Australia is higher in some cities as compared to others. Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive cities, while Adelaide and Hobart offer a more affordable lifestyle for students.
- Scholarships – Many universities and the Australian government provide scholarships, which can help reduce tuition and living expenses.
- Accommodation – On-campus housing is convenient but often pricier than shared apartments or homestays, which can save you money.
- Transport & Miscellaneous Costs – Expenses like public transport, health insurance, groceries, and entertainment can add up, so budgeting wisely is important.
Also Read:
- Top 7 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia
- Australia Student Visa Success Rate: Everything That You Should Know!
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Master’s Students in Australia
If you’re worried about the cost of studying in Australia, scholarships can help make your education more affordable. The Australian government, universities, and private organizations offer financial aid to international students. Here are the given scholarships to the master’s students below.
| Scholarship Name | Funding Type | Eligibility | Benefits | Application Process |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Fully Funded (Govt.) | Students from eligible countries | Covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance | Apply online through the Australian Government portal |
| Destination Australia Scholarship | Partially Funded | Students studying in regional Australia | AUD 15,000 per year for living and study costs | Apply through participating universities |
| University-Specific Scholarships | Varies (Partial/Fully Funded) | Based on merit or financial need | Partial or full tuition fee waiver | Apply directly to the university |
| Research-Based Scholarships | Fully Funded (Govt. & University) | Students enrolled in research-based Master’s programs | Tuition fee coverage, stipend for living costs | Apply through the university’s research department |
| Work-Study Opportunities | Self-Funded | Student visa holders (Subclass 500) | Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, full-time in breaks | Find jobs via university portals or job sites |
How to Apply for a Cheap Master’s Course in Australia?
Applying for an affordable Master’s course in Australia requires proper research and planning. The process includes finding the right university, checking eligibility, and securing financial aid. Following the right steps ensures a smooth admission process and a chance to study at a lower cost.
- Research Universities: Look for affordable universities with low tuition fees but strong academic programs. Public universities often have cheaper options than private ones.
- Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the academic requirements, including minimum GPA and English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Some programs may need work experience.
- Apply for Scholarships: Explore government, university, and private scholarships that can reduce tuition costs. Apply for them alongside your university application to increase your chances.
- Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the university’s website or with the help of an education consultant. Make sure all required documents, including transcripts and SOPs, are ready.
- Apply for a Student Visa: Once admitted, apply for the Subclass 500 student visa. This visa allows you to study, work part-time, and stay legally in Australia during your course.
Studying in Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. By choosing cheap Master’s courses in Australia, applying for scholarships, and managing your living expenses wisely, you can get a world-class education without breaking the bank. Ready to start your journey? Research universities, apply early, and take the first step toward an exciting future in Australia!
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FAQs
The cheapest master’s courses in Australia are usually in public universities. Fields like education, social work, and humanities have lower tuition fees. Some affordable universities include the University of Southern Queensland, Charles Sturt University, and Federation University. Tuition fees can start from AUD 18,000 per year.
Some universities offering cheap master’s courses in Australia include:
– University of New England (From AUD 19,000 per year)
– Charles Darwin University (From AUD 21,000 per year)
– Federation University (From AUD 22,000 per year)
Public universities are usually more affordable than private ones.
The cost of a cheap master’s course in Australia ranges between AUD 18,000 to AUD 30,000 per year. The actual cost depends on the university, program, and location. Engineering and medical courses tend to be more expensive, while arts and social sciences are cheaper.
Yes, many universities offer scholarships for international students. The Australia Awards, university-specific grants, and government-funded scholarships can help reduce tuition fees. Some universities even offer partial or full tuition waivers based on merit.
Yes, online master’s courses in Australia are often cheaper than on-campus courses. They also help students save on living expenses. Universities like the University of New England and Charles Sturt University offer affordable online master’s programs.
Some of the cheapest cities for master’s students in Australia include:
– Hobart – Lower rent and living costs
– Adelaide – Affordable tuition fees and housing
– Perth – Cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne
Yes, regional universities in Australia are more affordable than universities in big cities. They also offer extra scholarships and work opportunities. Some budget-friendly regional universities include Federation University, Charles Darwin University, and the University of New England.
– Apply for scholarships and financial aid
– Choose a regional university for lower tuition fees
– Work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight)
– Live in shared accommodation to save rent
– Use student discounts on public transport and essentials
Yes, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and full-time during holidays. Popular student jobs include retail, hospitality, and tutoring. Working part-time helps cover living expenses and reduces financial stress.
Yes, even affordable master’s courses in Australia maintain high education standards. Graduating from an Australian university boosts job prospects globally. Many universities have strong industry connections and offer internships, which help in securing jobs after graduation.
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