Master's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Master of Visual Arts

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

082377K

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 Visual Arts at the Australian National University (ANU) offers advanced, practice-led education in contemporary fine arts. Over two years of full-time study, students engage in a rigorous programme that integrates studio practice with critical theory, developing both creative and analytical skills. The curriculum covers core areas such as painting, sculpture, printmedia, photo and media arts, textiles, and ceramics, supported by access to specialist workshops and expert academic staff.

This master's degree is structured across units of study, with each unit carrying a set number of credit points contributing towards the qualification. Students undertake a combination of studio-based coursework, art theory, and elective units that allow for customisation according to personal and professional interests. A key feature is the capstone project or major exhibition in the final year, where students present a body of work for critical review, demonstrating their conceptual and technical development.

Work-integrated learning opportunities, such as professional placements or collaborations with local galleries and arts organisations, are embedded where relevant. ANU’s location in Canberra, a city rich in national cultural institutions and creative industries, supports strong industry and research linkages. The programme is designed for emerging artists, arts professionals, and graduates from related disciplines seeking to deepen their practice or prepare for doctoral studies.

Graduates gain advanced artistic, conceptual, and critical skills, practical experience in studio and exhibition contexts, and the ability to contribute to Australia’s vibrant arts sector. International students should provide evidence of English proficiency, and are eligible for up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during semesters and post-study work opportunities in Australia, with up-to-date details available on the official site.

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

Professional visual artist
Gallery and museum curator
Arts educator or workshop facilitator
Art conservation and restoration roles
Community arts project coordinator
Exhibition and events manager
Arts policy and advocacy roles
Creative industries entrepreneur

Graduates contribute to Australia’s diverse arts sector, including commercial galleries, public museums, arts festivals, government cultural agencies, and independent practice.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Visual Arts 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?

Professional visual artistGallery and museum curatorArts educator or workshop facilitatorArt conservation and restoration rolesCommunity arts project coordinatorExhibition and events managerArts policy and advocacy rolesCreative industries entrepreneurGraduates contribute to Aust...

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