Master of Design (by Research) (CRICOS course code 046753A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 2 years. This research-focused program, offered at the Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Victoria, is designed for creative professionals who want to push the boundaries of graphic arts and design studies (field of education 100501). As a CRICOS-registered course (00111D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Swinburne is a public university with a strong reputation in design and technology, providing access to advanced studios and research facilities. Whether you aim to contribute to academic knowledge or innovate in industry practice, this degree offers a pathway to deepen your expertise. With an indicative total fee of A$75,600, it represents a significant investment in your future. HeadStart Academy brings you this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), helping you make informed decisions about studying in Australia. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – find out if this research degree aligns with your goals.
Master of Design (by Research) (CRICOS course code 046753A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 2 years. This program falls under the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501), focusing on advanced research methods and creative practice. Students typically develop a substantial research project, supervised by experienced academics, contributing new knowledge to design disciplines. The course is offered at AQF Level 9, indicating a high level of independent inquiry and scholarly output. As a research degree, it does not include a work component but may involve practice-led research in studios or labs. Swinburne's Hawthorn campus provides a vibrant environment with access to cutting-edge technology and industry connections. International students benefit from CRICOS registration, ensuring the course meets Australian quality standards. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register, so you can trust the details here.
As a research master's in design, you will engage deeply with your chosen area of graphic arts and design studies. Typical learning outcomes include formulating research questions, applying advanced design methodologies, and producing a thesis or creative work that demonstrates original contribution. You might explore fields such as visual communication, digital design, user experience, or sustainable design. The program emphasizes critical analysis, experimentation, and reflection, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or senior design roles. While specific curriculum details vary, the course structure usually involves coursework in research methods followed by sustained independent research under supervision. This is common for AQF Level 9 research degrees in Australia.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. There is no work component integrated into the course. Students are expected to attend the Hawthorn campus regularly for supervision and access to facilities. Part-time study may be possible but typically requires visa approval and provider consent. The indicative duration helps you plan your stay in Australia and budget for living costs.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Design (by Research) is A$75,600 for the entire course, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, meaning no compulsory additional fees are included in the CRICOS data. The estimated total cost is therefore A$75,600. However, you should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fee details, always check Swinburne's website. In Melbourne, indicative weekly living costs (rent, groceries, transport) range from A$400 to A$600. Course fees are subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a research master's, Swinburne may require a higher score (e.g., IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0). Prior qualifications: a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., design, fine arts) with honours or research experience is often expected. Some applicants may need to submit a research proposal or portfolio. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; refer to Swinburne for any bridging programs. Always consult the provider's website for exact entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a research degree, the focus is on supervised research rather than industry placement. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions and should not interfere with your study commitment.
Master of Design (by Research) is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 7 km east of the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains and trams. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant international student community and over 150,000 students from overseas. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, affordable food, and excellent public amenities. Indicative living costs in Melbourne: rent A$300–A$500 per week, groceries A$80–A$120 per week, and public transport about A$50 per week. Studying in Melbourne provides access to a thriving creative industry hub.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Swinburne, proof of English proficiency, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. OSHC is mandatory for international students – it covers medical care in Australia. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holidays. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to secure your place:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Research) and field (Graphic Arts and Design Studies). Confirm that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) meets your preferences.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Swinburne's international website (swinburne.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and a research proposal if required. Note application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, Swinburne issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Seek help from a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Swinburne's website to check entry requirements and apply for Master of Design (by Research).
Master of Design (by Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.