Master of Creative Arts Therapy (CRICOS course code 0100983) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This program is designed for graduates seeking to integrate creative arts practices with therapeutic approaches, preparing them for professional roles in clinical and community settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00116K), it meets Australian government standards for international student enrolment. The University of Melbourne is a leading Group of Eight university located in Melbourne, Victoria—a city home to over 200,000 international students and more than 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers. With its strong arts culture and healthcare infrastructure, Melbourne offers an ideal environment for studying creative arts therapy. HeadStart Academy provides this profile as a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed study decisions.
The Master of Creative Arts Therapy (CRICOS 0100983) is a postgraduate coursework degree that equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in using creative arts (such as visual arts, music, drama, and dance) within therapeutic frameworks. The course is classified under field of education 109999 - Creative Arts, n.e.c. and sits at AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree). It is offered only in English and has no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The program includes a compulsory work component of 20 weeks at 8 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours of supervised practice. This work-integrated learning may involve placements in hospitals, community health centres, schools, or private practice settings, allowing students to apply their learning under professional supervision. All data is drawn from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, and The University of Melbourne is authorised to enrol international students under its CRICOS registration (00116K).
While individual subjects vary, the Master of Creative Arts Therapy typically covers areas such as theories of creative arts therapy, client assessment and intervention, ethical practice, research methods, and cross-cultural considerations. Graduates develop skills to facilitate therapeutic processes using creative mediums, understand psychological frameworks, and evaluate their own practice. The course emphasises experiential learning, self-reflection, and evidence-based approaches. As a coursework master's, it provides a structured pathway to professional practice without a substantial research thesis, though some programs may include a capstone project. The field of 'Other Creative Arts' encompasses emerging and interdisciplinary practices that do not fit into traditional categories like visual arts or music therapy, making this degree distinctive. Prospective students should note that entry typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., arts, health, or social sciences) and demonstrated creative arts experience.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Creative Arts Therapy has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards). Students are expected to attend full-time, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and placement. The University of Melbourne also offers some flexibility with part-time options for domestic students, but international students must generally maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The language requirement ensures all instruction, assessment, and placement communication are conducted in English. For international applicants, this means demonstrating proficiency through tests like IELTS or equivalent.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Creative Arts Therapy is A$98,650, as recorded on the CRICOS register. In addition, a non-tuition fee of A$150 applies, bringing the estimated total to A$98,800. These fees are set by The University of Melbourne and are subject to change each intake. Importantly, this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) which is mandatory for international students (approx. A$600–$1,200 per year depending on provider and coverage level), living expenses (such as accommodation, food, and transport), or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the Student visa Subclass 500). As a guide, living costs in Melbourne for a single student are estimated at around A$500–$700 per week, including rent ($200–$400), groceries ($80–$150), and transport ($40–$60). Always confirm the latest fees with the university directly via their website: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/.
Entry requirements for the Master of Creative Arts Therapy typically include: a completed bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as psychology, social work, arts, or health sciences; demonstrated experience in creative arts practice (e.g., portfolio, audition, or professional experience); and English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.5) or equivalent. Some students may need to complete a pathway program before commencing the master's, such as a graduate certificate or diploma. The University of Melbourne assesses applications holistically, considering academic record, personal statement, and referees. International applicants should also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Note that these are general indicators—check the provider's official page for precise prerequisites.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 20 weeks, with 8 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) is designed to provide students with supervised clinical or industry experience in real-world settings. Placements may occur in hospitals, community mental health services, aged care facilities, schools, or private practices, giving students direct exposure to the therapeutic process under the guidance of qualified professionals. The WIL component is integrated into the curriculum, ensuring students can link theory to practice. For international students, placements also offer networking opportunities and a taste of the Australian workplace culture. All placements are arranged by the university, and students must comply with any site-specific requirements, such as police checks or vaccinations. The CRICOS register notes that this component is required for course completion.
The Master of Creative Arts Therapy is delivered at The University of Melbourne's main campus in PARKVILLE, Victoria. Parkville is a vibrant inner-city suburb approximately 3 km north of Melbourne's central business district. The campus is well connected by public transport, including trams and buses, and is within walking distance of the Melbourne Central Business District. Melbourne itself is Australia's second-largest city, with a population of around 5 million, and hosts over 200,000 international students. The city is known for its cultural diversity, thriving arts scene, and strong healthcare and education sectors. Students at Parkville have access to state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, and student support services. With over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, and around 600 in Melbourne alone, the city offers a rich educational environment. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus around $400–$600.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Melbourne, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for living expenses as per Department of Home Affairs), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa, and a genuine intention to stay temporarily (GTE criterion). The ESOS Act protects international students by ensuring CRICOS-registered courses meet quality standards. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—consult a Registered Migration Agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for advice on your specific circumstances.
Melbourne is consistently rated one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong arts and culture scene, excellent public transport, and a diverse international community. For creative arts therapy students, the city offers numerous placement opportunities in hospitals, community health centres, and arts organisations. The cost of living, while significant, is balanced by the availability of part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight on a student visa). Melbourne's climate is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. The city is also a gateway to regional Victoria, known for its natural beauty. Choosing Melbourne means joining a vibrant student population of over 200,000 from around the world. HeadStart Academy's data shows Victoria has over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all levels, making it a top destination for international students.
Ready to start your journey? Explore the official course page at The University of Melbourne and begin your application today.
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Master of Creative Arts Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.