Master's Degree Graphic Design Full Time

Master of Design

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

092388B

CRICOS provider code

00120C

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$94,620 total

Per year

A$47,310/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Design at the Australian National University enables graduates to advance their skills in graphic design, focusing on innovation, creativity, and critical thinking. Based in Canberra, this two-year programme is crafted to prepare students for leadership and specialist roles in the dynamic field of design. The curriculum integrates core design theory with applied studio practice, allowing students to explore areas such as visual communication, interactive media, branding, and user experience design.

Australian master's degrees are generally structured into units of study that accumulate credit points across four semesters. This course features a blend of coursework, collaborative projects, and creative studio units, often culminating in a capstone project or significant research-led design portfolio. Students have opportunities to engage with contemporary issues, industry briefs, and cutting-edge methodologies, ensuring their learning remains relevant and rigorous.

The programme supports work-integrated learning and often involves close interaction with industry professionals, fostering real-world experience and expanding professional networks. ANU’s links to Australian creative industries and government agencies provide valuable opportunities for placements or design research collaborations, reinforcing the practical and research capabilities of graduates. Master’s students develop advanced proficiency in communication, project management, and technical design skills valued across sectors.

This course is ideal for those with a background in design or a related discipline seeking to deepen their expertise or transition to senior or specialist roles. Both domestic and international students benefit from the supportive study environment in Australia’s capital city, with international applicants needing to demonstrate English proficiency. Students in Australia may work up to 48 hours per fortnight and graduates can explore opportunities under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). For the most accurate details on units, credit structure, and requirements, consult the official ANU course 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

Graphic Designer in digital or print sectors
Branding and Identity Specialist
User Experience (UX) Designer
Design Director or Art Director
Design Researcher
Creative Strategist
Roles in government, creative agencies, digital media companies, and non-profit organisations throughout Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Design at Australian National 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$94,620 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Graphic Designer in digital or print sectorsBranding and Identity SpecialistUser Experience (UX) DesignerDesign Director or Art DirectorDesign ResearcherCreative StrategistRoles in government, creative agencies, digital media companies, and non-profit organisations throughout Aus...

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