Master's Degree Sociology Full Time

Master of Museums and Heritage Studies

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

085331M

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$107,650 total

Per year

A$53,825/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Museums and Heritage Studies at the Australian National University is a two-year postgraduate programme designed to prepare students for careers in museum, gallery, and heritage sectors. The course explores the theoretical, practical, and ethical dimensions of heritage management, museum operations, and conservation practice with a strong sociological perspective. Students engage with topics such as collection care, exhibition design, heritage tourism, Indigenous heritage, and cultural policy, gaining insight into Australia’s unique historical and cultural landscape.

The programme is structured over four semesters, comprising a sequence of core and elective units of study amounting to the total credit points required for a master’s qualification according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Students may complete a capstone project or a research thesis, applying their learning to real-world challenges in the sector. Assessment methods range from written assignments and applied projects to collaborative group work and presentations.

Students develop transferable skills in collection management, curatorial practice, heritage conservation, and policy development, as well as advanced research, communication, and project management skills. Strong industry links provide students with opportunities for professional placements or work-integrated learning, enhancing employability and industry readiness. The programme is well-suited to those with backgrounds in humanities, social sciences, or related fields who are passionate about cultural stewardship and Australian heritage.

ANU’s location in Canberra, a city home to major national collecting institutions and policy bodies, offers unique opportunities to engage with leading museums and heritage organisations. Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa post-study work stream. Confirm all details on the official 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

Museum curator or collection manager for leading Australian museums and galleries
Heritage officer or specialist in government heritage agencies
Cultural policy advisor in public or private sectors
Exhibition manager or developer for public and community institutions
Heritage consultant for private firms and non-government organisations

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Museums and Heritage Studies 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$107,650 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Museum curator or collection manager for leading Australian museums and galleriesHeritage officer or specialist in government heritage agenciesCultural policy advisor in public or private sectorsExhibition manager or developer for public and community institutionsHeritage consult...

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