Master's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Master of Visual Arts

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

085198M

CRICOS provider code

00233E

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$82,000 total

Per year

A$41,000/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Visual Arts at Griffith University is designed for artists who want to develop their practice and expand their creative capabilities. This two-year master's course in Brisbane balances studio-based work with critical engagement, giving you the opportunity to explore advanced techniques and concepts across painting, drawing, sculpture, digital media, and other contemporary art forms. Coursework emphasises both individual studio research and collaboration, encouraging creative experimentation under the supervision of experienced artists and academics.

Australian master's degrees usually run over four semesters, with students completing a set number of units of study—each carrying credit points that count toward graduation. At Griffith, students will participate in core and elective units, leading up to a capstone project where you produce a significant body of work accompanied by a critical exegesis or research paper. The programme structure encourages connections to Brisbane's arts community, including access to exhibitions, gallery internships, and professional development with local and national industry links.

Throughout the course, students develop skills in visual research, critical analysis, creative problem-solving, independent project management, and professional art practice. You'll engage in critiques, artist talks, and may have the option for industry placements or collaborative projects, building both a portfolio and a professional network. This course suits emerging and established artists, designers, and those seeking to engage with contemporary visual cultures in an Australian context.

International students must meet English requirements, and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain post-study work experience in Australia. For the most current details on credit structure, unit selection, and placement opportunities, check the official Griffith 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

Exhibiting artist
Gallery assistant or curator
Arts educator (non-school settings)
Arts administrator
Creative project manager
Public arts officer
Roles in museums, cultural organisations, and creative industries across Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Visual Arts at Griffith 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$82,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Exhibiting artistGallery assistant or curatorArts educator (non-school settings)Arts administratorCreative project managerPublic arts officerRoles in museums, cultural organisations, and creative industries across Australia

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