Master's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Master of Fine Arts

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

099324F

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$98,650 total

Per year

A$49,325/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Fine Arts at the University of Melbourne is a two-year advanced degree designed for artists, curators, and other art professionals seeking to refine their creative practice in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. The course offers a combination of studio-based learning, theoretical inquiry, and rigorous critical feedback tailored to the chosen specialisation—be it visual arts, theatre, dance, film, or other fine arts disciplines.

Structured over four semesters, students complete a series of core and elective units of study, each contributing credit points toward the qualification. The programme typically culminates in a major capstone project or research component, giving students the opportunity to develop a significant body of work or a scholarly thesis with guidance from experienced faculty and practising artists. The curriculum balances hands-on creative practice with seminars in contemporary art theory, professional development, and, where relevant, industry placements or collaborations.

Throughout their studies, students engage with Melbourne's renowned arts scene, drawing on connections with industry partners, galleries, festivals, and cultural institutions. Graduates gain a range of skills: advanced critical analysis, project management, research methodologies, and creative articulation. This course is ideally suited to aspiring professional artists, curators, arts educators, and creative practitioners looking to establish a sophisticated art practice in the context of Australia’s dynamic cultural sector. Prospective students should review the official course page for the most up-to-date entry and course requirements.

International students accepted into this CRICOS-registered programme may demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS Academic (6.0-6.5 overall for this course), TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or equivalent qualifications. Eligible graduates may qualify for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), and may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, supporting both creative practice and professional networking in Australia.

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 (visual arts, theatre, dance, film)
Gallery and museum curator
Arts education specialist
Exhibition manager or producer
Arts administration or project management roles in Australian cultural institutions
Creative director in media and design industries
Independent curator or freelance creative practitioner

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$98,650 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional artist (visual arts, theatre, dance, film)Gallery and museum curatorArts education specialistExhibition manager or producerArts administration or project management roles in Australian cultural institutionsCreative director in media and design industriesIndependent c...

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