Master of Research (Visual Arts) at Adelaide University

Master's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Master of Research (Visual Arts)

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

112138F

CRICOS provider code

00121B

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 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$76,600 total

Per year

A$37,226/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Research (Visual Arts) at Adelaide University is designed for those seeking to deepen their practice and scholarly engagement in the visual arts. Over the two-year full-time programme, students undertake advanced coursework and a substantial independent research project, culminating in a thesis or creative work supported by a written exegesis. The curriculum provides a rigorous foundation in research methodologies, critical theory, and contemporary visual arts discourse, enabling participants to critically reflect upon and advance their own creative practice.

Australian master's degrees such as this comprise both core and elective units of study, with credit points assigned to each unit, as prescribed in the university handbook. Students benefit from the guidance of experienced supervisors and access to university studio facilities, while also engaging with Adelaide's vibrant cultural and artistic community. A significant component of the course is the capstone research project, which demonstrates students' ability to produce original contributions to the field of visual arts.

The programme builds advanced skills in creative practice, academic research, critical analysis, and professional presentation, equipping graduates for scholarly, curatorial, or industry-focused roles. It is suited to those with a background in fine arts or related disciplines who aspire to either professional practice or a future in academic research or doctoral study. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, with IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or the university's English programmes accepted as proof; visa requirements set a separate standard.

Opportunities for work-integrated learning may arise through industry engagement or collaborative projects, and Australian student visa conditions allow for part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight) during study. Graduates may also be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion, providing the pathway to further professional or academic experience in Australia. Prospective students are encouraged to confirm details on the official university page.

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

Visual artist
Curator or gallery manager
Arts administrator
Art educator (with additional qualifications)
Researcher in visual arts
Exhibition coordinator
Creative consultant in Australian cultural organisations, museums, and galleries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Research (Visual Arts) at Adelaide University?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$76,600 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Visual artistCurator or gallery managerArts administratorArt educator (with additional qualifications)Researcher in visual artsExhibition coordinatorCreative consultant in Australian cultural organisations, museums, and galleries

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