Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media - multiple specialisations) (CRICOS course code 056686B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This research-intensive program allows students to delve into specialised areas of creative arts, design, or media, culminating in a thesis that contributes original knowledge to the field. UNSW, a leading Australian university with CRICOS provider code 00098G, offers a vibrant research environment supported by expert supervisors and state-of-the-art facilities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. Use this page to explore fees, entry requirements, study locations, and visa pathways for this unique research degree.
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Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media - multiple specialisations) (CRICOS course code 056686B) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 research degree is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced study in creative arts, with specialisations available across various subfields such as visual arts, design, digital media, and performance. The program requires candidates to complete a substantial research project under academic supervision, culminating in a thesis. UNSW is a Group of Eight university located in Sydney, New South Wales, and is one of Australia's most respected institutions for research and innovation. All course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses to international students. This course is registered with CRICOS, ensuring it meets the rigorous standards for overseas student education set by the Australian Government.
This course falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 109999 - Creative Arts, n.e.c. (not elsewhere classified). As a research degree, the curriculum is not composed of taught subjects but rather a focused research project tailored to the student's chosen specialisation. Students will develop advanced skills in research methodology, critical analysis, and creative practice. Graduates typically emerge with the ability to design and execute independent research, contribute new knowledge to their field, and communicate complex ideas through both written and creative outputs. While the exact research topic is determined in consultation with supervisors, the degree prepares students for careers in academia, cultural institutions, creative industries, and research leadership roles. The program is delivered entirely in English, and international students must demonstrate proficiency through recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media - multiple specialisations) has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks. This is the standard duration for a full-time research master's degree. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; no dual or joint degree is offered. The course does not include a foundation studies component, nor is it a VET program (VET national code: N/A). Students are expected to engage in full-time research, although part-time options may be available for domestic students. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The structure allows for flexible study patterns within the research framework, with regular supervision meetings and progress reviews.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$92,500, as recorded on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$94,500. Please note that fees are set by the institution and are subject to change without notice. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fee information, always refer to the provider's official website at www.unsw.edu.au. Sydney's cost of living is relatively high; indicative weekly expenses for a single student range from A$600–$900, including rent (A$350–$600), groceries (A$80–$150), and transport (A$30–$50). These are estimates only and vary based on lifestyle.
Entry requirements for Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media - multiple specialisations) are determined by UNSW. Generally, applicants should hold a bachelor's degree with honours (or equivalent) in a related field, typically with a minimum grade of H2A (equivalent to 70–74%) or higher. Applicants with a master's degree by coursework or a substantial research component may also be considered. English language proficiency is required; typical scores are IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent, though this may vary. Some specialisations may require a portfolio or research proposal. For the most up-to-date entry requirements, refer to UNSW's website. If you do not meet direct entry, consider pathway programs such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma to build research skills. Always verify with the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or work experience requirement as part of the degree. Students may, however, undertake casual work or industry placements independently, subject to visa conditions and university approval. The student visa (Subclass 500) permits work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work is voluntary and not assessed as part of the program.
This course is delivered exclusively at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 6 kilometres from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail (the L2 Randwick Line stops near campus). Sydney has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,500 courses, making it a major study destination. The city's creative arts scene is vibrant, with galleries, theatres, and design studios providing rich opportunities for research and networking. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia; students should budget accordingly.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency evidence. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of the visa; costs vary by provider. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The visa also requires students to maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to verify that UNSW (provider code 00098G) and this course (056686B) are registered. Filter by course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field, and location (Kensington, NSW). HeadStart Academy's directory can help you compare options. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit UNSW's website (www.unsw.edu.au) to check specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. You will need to submit academic transcripts, a research proposal, and sometimes a portfolio. Some specialisations may have additional selection criteria. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once UNSW offers you a place, accept and get your CoE. Then lodge your visa application online, including GTE, financial evidence, OSHC, and health checks. Ensure you apply well in advance of course start dates.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a global hub for finance, technology, and creative industries. For a research degree in arts, design, or media, Sydney offers world-class museums (e.g., Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art), design studios, and cultural festivals. Public transport connects Kensington to the city centre, beaches, and other suburbs. However, the cost of living is high—rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus averages A$500–$700 per week. International students also need to consider climate (warm summers, mild winters) and lifestyle. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, Sydney provides diverse educational opportunities, but UNSW's strong research reputation makes it a top choice for research degrees.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media) at UNSW on HeadStart Academy, or contact the university directly for detailed application information.
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Master of Philosophy (Arts, Design & Media - multiple specialisations) 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.