USYD postgraduate changes for 2027: new, revised and suspended degrees

1|# USYD postgraduate changes for 2027: new, revised and suspended degrees 2| 3|## Direct Answer 4| 5|The University of Sydney (USYD) is making significant changes to its postgraduate offerings for 2027, including a new Master of Sustainability, temporary suspensions of engineering programs, and revised entry requirements for digital health degrees. These updates affect applications for 2027 and 2028. 6| 7|## New Master of Sustainability (2027 Semester 1) 8| 9|Starting from Semester 1, 2027, the Faculty of Science will launch a new Master of Sustainability. This 96-credit point program is designed with a layered structure, moving students from foundational learning to advanced specialist research. The degree responds to growing demand for expertise in environmental and social sustainability, covering topics such as climate policy, sustainable resource management, and systems thinking. It replaces no existing program and is entirely new to the university’s portfolio. 10| 11|## Engineering Postgraduate Suspensions (Effective January 2027) 12| 13|The Faculty of Engineering is undertaking a review of several programs. Effective January 2027, the following postgraduate degrees will be suspended for two years: 14| 15|- Master of Transport / Graduate Diploma / Graduate Certificate 16|- Master of Professional Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering) 17|- Master of Engineering (Sustainability and Environmental Engineering) 18| 19|The suspension is temporary, and the faculty is reviewing these programs for potential redesign or discontinuation. No new applications will be accepted for these degrees during the suspension period. If you are considering engineering pathways, alternative programs such as the Master of Engineering (Civil) or Master of Professional Engineering (Biomedical) remain available. 20| 21|## Digital Health and Data Science Entry Updates 22| 23|For 2027 intake, the Master of Digital Health and Data Science and its associated Graduate Certificate have updated entry requirements. These changes may affect minimum academic scores, prerequisite subjects, or work experience criteria. Check the specific course page on the University of Sydney website for the latest admission standards. This is particularly relevant for students from health, IT, or data science backgrounds. 24| 25|## Business School Curriculum Overhaul (2027) 26| 27|The University of Sydney Business School is refreshing its Bachelor of Commerce and five dual degree programs for 2027. Key changes include: 28| 29|- Four new core courses designed to modernise learning outcomes 30|- New major: “Accounting, Governance and Regulation” (pending CPA and CA ANZ accreditation) 31|- Human Resource Management major now seeking AHRI accreditation (decision expected August 2026) 32| 33|While this primarily affects undergraduate students, it may influence postgraduate pathways if you plan to transition from a related bachelor’s degree. 34| 35|## International Student Scholarships 36| 37|For 2027, the Sydney International Undergraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship (SIUAES) is now open for applications. This merit-based scholarship covers a significant portion of tuition fees for high-achieving international students. Eligibility criteria include outstanding academic results in your previous qualification (e.g., ATAR equivalent or high GPA in a recognised foundation program). Apply early to secure consideration. 38| 39|## Visa and Compliance Updates 40| 41|Two important changes affect international students: 42| 43|1. MD115 Visa Condition: The Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA) may impose MD115 conditions on certain student visas, potentially delaying processing. Ensure all documentation is accurate and submitted promptly. 44| 45|2. Under 18 Welfare Provider Change: From 19 December 2026, ISA becomes the sole approved welfare provider for under-18 international students. The previous arrangement with PSC ends on 18 December 2026. If you are under 18 and applying for 2027, you must use ISA for welfare arrangements. 46| 47|3. Bupa OSHC Premium Increase: Bupa has raised its Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) premiums following an annual review. New offers including Bupa OSHC will reflect a slight cost increase. No specific amount is provided, but factor this into your budget. 48| 49|## AHPRA English Language Requirements 50| 51|Important: The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is proposing changes to English language requirements for health practitioners. These are still under university governance review and have not taken effect. Do not treat them as current policy. If you are applying for a health-related program (e.g., nursing, medicine), monitor official AHPRA updates but do not make decisions based on draft proposals. 52| 53|## 2028 Applications Now Open 54| 55|Applications for most standard programs starting in 2028 are now open. Exceptions include programs undergoing curriculum review or with non-standard opening dates. If your desired course is not yet available for 2028, check back later. 56| 57|## FAQ 58| 59|Q1: Can I still apply for the suspended engineering programs for 2026? 60|A1: Yes, the suspension takes effect from January 2027. Applications for 2026 intake remain open for these programs, subject to availability. 61| 62|Q2: Will the Master of Sustainability replace any existing degree? 63|A2: No, it is a new program. It complements existing offerings in environmental science and policy. 64| 65|Q3: Are the AHPRA English changes in effect now? 66|A3: No. These are still proposals under university governance review. Do not treat them as current policy. 67| 68|Q4: How do I apply for the SIUAES scholarship? 69|A4: Applications are open for 2027. Check the University of Sydney scholarships page for eligibility and deadlines. It is merit-based. 70| 71|Q5: What happens if I am under 18 and my welfare provider is PSC? 72|A5: From 19 December 2026, only ISA is approved. If your current arrangement ends before then, you must switch to ISA. Contact the university’s international student support team for guidance. 73| 74|Q6: Will the Bupa OSHC increase affect existing offers? 75|A6: Only new offers issued after the premium increase will reflect the higher cost. Existing offers remain valid. 76| 77|## Sources and Data As Of 78| 79|- University of Sydney: “2026 July Intake Update” (internal communication, date not specified; reflects 2027 changes) 80|- University of Sydney: 2028 applications open (current information) 81|- AHPRA: English language standard proposals (under review, not effective) 82|- Bupa OSHC: Annual premium review (no specific date provided) 83|- Australian Department of Home Affairs: MD115 visa condition (general advice) 84| 85|Data as of: June 2025 (based on source email date). Always verify with the University of Sydney’s official website for the most current information.