Master's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Master of Fine Arts

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

075321G

CRICOS provider code

00116K

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$81,475 total

Per year

A$40,738/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Fine Arts at the University of Melbourne offers an intensive programme designed to cultivate advanced creative and technical skills in the field of fine arts. This two-year master’s degree is structured around innovative studio practice, research-driven projects, and critical theoretical engagement, supporting students to push the boundaries of their artistic practice. The curriculum is typically organised over semesters, with students undertaking a series of units of study, each contributing credit points towards the completion of the degree.

Students can expect a balance between guided coursework and independent studio work, underpinned by mentorship from practising artists and industry professionals. The programme frequently incorporates research-led learning and culminates in a major capstone project or thesis exhibition, providing a platform to showcase work to both academic and public audiences. Opportunities for work-integrated learning, professional placements, or exposure to gallery and arts organisations reflect the university’s strong connections with the vibrant Melbourne arts scene.

Throughout their studies, students develop sophisticated conceptual, technical, and critical thinking abilities across varied fine arts media. Skills gained include creative problem-solving, advanced project management, interpretation of contemporary art practices, visual communication, and professional presentation. This course is particularly suited to graduates with a passion for creative exploration who wish to deepen their practice, embark on a professional career in the arts, or pursue further research.

International students intending to apply must demonstrate English language proficiency with a recognised test such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic, as detailed by the University of Melbourne. Further, students on a Student visa may work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For the most up-to-date course and admission details including credit structures and unit offerings, consult the official University of Melbourne programme 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

Professional artist or studio practitioner
Curator or gallery manager
Arts educator or workshop facilitator
Cultural programme coordinator
Art consultant for public and private organisations
Roles in Australia’s creative industries, museums, and cultural institutions
Researcher or academic in fine arts fields

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Fine Arts at University of Melbourne?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$81,475 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional artist or studio practitionerCurator or gallery managerArts educator or workshop facilitatorCultural programme coordinatorArt consultant for public and private organisationsRoles in Australia’s creative industries, museums, and cultural institutionsResearcher or acad...

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