Master of Digital Arts

The Master of Digital Arts at the Australian National University is designed for those wishing to broaden and deepen their creative practice through the integration of digital media, new technologies, and visual communication. Spanning two years of full-time study, this postgraduate programme fosters both critical and technical skills in digital imaging, animation, interactivity, sound, and video, as well as theoretical engagement with contemporary digital art and culture.

This master's degree comprises a set of core and elective units of study to build a solid foundation in digital arts concepts, practice-led research, and advanced creative methodologies. Students accrue credit through successful completion of these units, which add up to the required number of credit points for graduation. A distinctive feature is the possibility to undertake a capstone project or research-based thesis, allowing students to develop a substantial body of work or explore a specialised area in depth, often in consultation with industry or research professionals.

Throughout the course, students gain expertise in digital design software, studio production, coding for creatives, and experimental media. There are also opportunities for work-integrated learning via industry engagement or collaborative projects. The programme is ideal for graduates looking to expand their digital skill set, practising artists seeking to transition into digital media, or professionals in related fields such as design, communications, and education aiming to enrich their creative toolkit.

Australian universities like ANU provide a supportive setting, with potential for industry networking within Canberra’s growing creative sector. International students benefit from work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Applicants should consult the official ANU website for admission, English language requirements, and detailed programme structure.

• Digital artist or multimedia artist in arts and media industries
• Animator or motion graphics designer for creative studios and production houses
• User experience (UX) or interaction designer in the tech and design sectors
• Video editor, sound designer, or visual effects artist in film and television
• Exhibition designer or curator for museums, galleries, and cultural organisations
• Creative technologist or digital content producer in advertising and communications
• Tertiary education or arts education roles (with further qualifications)