Master of Art Therapy (CRICOS course code 013543F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Western Sydney University over 2 years. This program combines health and creative arts, preparing graduates to use art as a therapeutic tool in clinical, community, and educational settings. Part of the Health field under Rehabilitation Therapies, this course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government quality standards for international students. Western Sydney University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00917K. If you're considering studying art therapy in Australia, this page provides all key details: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa information. Use HeadStart Academy as your free, independent resource — we source data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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The Master of Art Therapy is classified under Field of Education 06 - Health, specifically 0617 - Rehabilitation Therapies. At the AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree by Coursework), students develop advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in art therapy, including assessment, intervention, and evaluation. The curriculum typically covers human development, counselling skills, ethics, and research methods, with a strong emphasis on supervised clinical practice. Graduates emerge with the ability to work across diverse populations, using art to support mental health and well-being. While the exact syllabus is set by Western Sydney University, you can expect a blend of coursework and experiential learning that meets the professional standards required for art therapy practice in Australia.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 104 weeks (2 years) full-time. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual degree or foundation studies component). Students should be prepared for a full-time commitment of approximately 19 hours per week of study, plus additional independent learning. The course is delivered on campus at Western Sydney University's Parramatta locations. There is no VET national code — this is a higher education program.
Tuition fees for Master of Art Therapy are indicative at A$66,176 total (sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, excursions, or administration) add approximately A$600, bringing the estimated total to A$66,776. Note: these fees are set by Western Sydney University and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website (www.westernsydney.edu.au). Not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs around A$500–A$700 per year. Living in Parramatta (a Sydney suburb), indicative weekly expenses: rent A$250–A$400, groceries A$60–A$100, public transport A$30–A$50.
Western Sydney University typically requires an IELTS overall band of 6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent English test scores. Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field (e.g., arts, health, or social sciences) with a credit average or higher. Some programs also require a portfolio or interview. Foundation studies or pathway options may be available through Western Sydney University's pathways programs — check directly with the institution. HeadStart Academy does not determine entry; always refer to the provider's official admissions page.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 40 weeks of professional placement at 19 hours per week, totalling approximately 760 hours. This is a work-integrated learning experience, likely involving supervised clinical placements in hospitals, community mental health centres, schools, or private practice settings. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments under qualified supervisors. The placement is integral to meeting accreditation standards and developing practical competence in art therapy. Ensure you have the necessary clearances (e.g., Working with Children Check) before placement.
Master of Art Therapy is delivered at two Western Sydney University campuses in Parramatta, NSW: Parramatta campus and Parramatta City campus. Parramatta is a major urban centre in Greater Western Sydney, with a large student population and excellent public transport (trains, buses, light rail). The area has a diverse community and relatively lower living costs compared to central Sydney. Parramatta is home to several CRICOS-registered providers (more than 10), making it a popular study destination. Students have access to modern facilities, libraries, and student support services at both campuses.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, hold OSHC for the duration, and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions, unlimited during scheduled course breaks. Your offer letter and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) are required for the visa application. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee safeguards and a complaint process through the Overseas Student Ombudsman. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
Follow these three steps to secure your place in Master of Art Therapy at Western Sydney University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses, fields, and locations. Ensure the course and provider are listed on CRICOS (this course is 013543F at 00917K). 2. Apply directly to Western Sydney University: Check entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts, portfolio) and deadlines. Submit your application via the institution's international admissions portal. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your student visa: If accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget OSHC and GTE requirements.
All institutions and courses listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. We are a free resource — no commissions or referral fees. There are 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across all study levels and Australian states. Every listed course is covered by the ESOS Act, protecting international students' rights, including refunds and course quality. This page is for informational purposes only; we do not provide immigration advice.
Parramatta is a vibrant hub for international students, with a population of over 250,000 and a high proportion of young professionals and students. The city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers, including Western Sydney University and other colleges. Cost of living in Parramatta is generally lower than in central Sydney: weekly rent A$250–A$400 for shared accommodation, public transport access to Sydney CBD in 30 minutes via train, and a wide range of grocery stores and restaurants catering to diverse cuisines. The area offers a rich cultural scene, parks, and recreational facilities. Consider whether Parramatta's lifestyle and career opportunities align with your study goals.
Ready to start your journey? Research more courses at headstartacademy.com.au or contact Western Sydney University directly.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Art Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.