Master of Fine Arts - By Research (CRICOS course code 009493A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This program is designed for creative practitioners who wish to pursue advanced research in fine arts, exploring visual arts and crafts within the field of Creative Arts (Field of Education 100301 Fine Arts). Students engage in independent research under expert supervision, culminating in a thesis and/or creative work. Located at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, this course offers access to world-class facilities and a vibrant arts community. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
Master of Fine Arts - By Research (CRICOS course code 009493A) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years (104 weeks). The course is in the field of Fine Arts (100301) under Creative Arts. UNSW is a government university with CRICOS provider code 00098G, and this course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets strict Australian quality standards for international education. The program focuses on research-led creative practice, allowing students to develop a substantial body of work and a dissertation. UNSW's Art & Design faculty is renowned for its innovation and industry connections, providing students with opportunities to exhibit and network.
The Master of Fine Arts - By Research is a research-intensive program where students undertake a major creative project and a written thesis. The field of Fine Arts encompasses visual arts, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, and installation art. At this AQF level, graduates are expected to demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge and research skills, contributing new insights to the field. Typical learning outcomes include advanced creative problem-solving, critical analysis of contemporary art practices, and the ability to articulate a coherent research methodology. Students work closely with a supervisor to refine their artistic practice and scholarly writing. The course encourages interdisciplinary approaches and may involve collaboration with other faculties at UNSW.
The Master of Fine Arts - By Research is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course—there is no dual degree or foundation studies component. Students are expected to be on campus at UNSW Kensington for supervision and access to facilities, though some research may be conducted off-site. The course does not have a mandatory work component, meaning students can focus entirely on their research. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Fine Arts - By Research at UNSW is A$92,500 for the full duration. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$94,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm with UNSW directly. International students in Sydney should budget approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs, including rent (around A$300–A$500 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and transport.
Entry requirements for this course are set by UNSW and typically include a bachelor's degree in fine arts, visual arts, or a related discipline with honours (or equivalent) demonstrating strong research potential. English language proficiency is required: most universities expect IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent for research master's programs. Other evidence may include a portfolio of creative work and a research proposal. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, UNSW offers preparatory programs such as the Graduate Diploma in Art if needed. Always check the provider’s website for detailed entry requirements, as they may vary by intake. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students focus entirely on their research project and coursework (if any). However, research students may have opportunities to engage in teaching assistantships or exhibitions, but these are not compulsory. The absence of a work component means graduates may need to seek practical industry experience independently. For international students, any work undertaken must comply with Student visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks.
The Master of Fine Arts - By Research is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 km from the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city has a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, studios, and cultural events. UNSW's campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail, making it accessible from most parts of Sydney. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; students should budget accordingly. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities for visual arts and research, including studios, digital labs, and exhibition spaces.
Sydney is a global hub for creative industries, offering a dynamic environment for fine arts research. The city hosts major cultural institutions like the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Museum of Contemporary Art, and numerous commercial galleries. Studying at UNSW places you in a network of artists, curators, and academics. Consider Sydney's multicultural population, which influences contemporary art practices. The cost of living is significant—weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$500–A$700, while sharing can reduce costs to A$300–$500. Transport costs are around A$40–$60 per week with student concessions. Despite expenses, Sydney provides unparalleled access to the Australian art world and international exhibitions. HeadStart Academy's data shows over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, but Sydney alone offers a concentration of high-quality art programs.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session (typically term) and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and financial capacity. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies—you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa; costs vary by provider and coverage level. All international students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which ensures tuition protection and consumer rights. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Applying for Master of Fine Arts - By Research at UNSW involves three key steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers by filtering course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Fine Arts), and location (NSW). HeadStart Academy's free directory can help you compare options. Second, apply directly to UNSW: check entry requirements (qualifications, English test scores, portfolio, research proposal), prepare your application, and submit before the deadline. UNSW typically has two intakes per year (February and July). Third, if successful, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For detailed guidance, visit UNSW's international admissions page.
Explore more Masters Degree (Research) courses in NSW on HeadStart Academy, or visit UNSW's official website for current fees and application details.
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Master of Fine Arts - By Research is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.