Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing (CRICOS course code 058718E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This postgraduate program, offered at AQF Level 9, is designed for students who want to deepen their skills in writing, editing, and publishing. Taught in English, this course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act. Whether you aim to become a published author, a publishing professional, or an editor, this degree provides a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical industry insights. The University of Melbourne, a Group of Eight university, is one of Australia's most prestigious institutions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this program stands out for its focus on the craft of writing and the business of publishing.
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Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing (CRICOS course code 058718E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This course falls under the field of education: Creative Arts (10) – Communication and Media Studies (1007) – Written Communication (100705). It is designed for students who wish to develop advanced skills in creative writing, editorial practice, and the publishing industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment, including compliance with the ESOS Act. The University of Melbourne is a government-funded public university with CRICOS provider code 00116K. The course is delivered at their Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Students will engage with contemporary literary theory, genre studies, and the practical aspects of publishing, including digital media and manuscript assessment.
This masters degree focuses on written communication, covering areas such as creative writing across genres, editorial processes, and publishing workflows. While specific subjects vary, typical learning outcomes include the ability to produce original creative work, critique and edit texts, understand the publishing landscape, and apply research methods to writing projects. The course is at AQF Level 9, meaning it emphasises advanced knowledge and skills for professional practice or further research. Graduates often pursue careers as authors, editors, publishers, or writing teachers. The program may include workshops, seminars, and a major creative project or thesis. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the curriculum is designed to meet Australian quality standards.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual award. There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes at the Parkville campus in Melbourne. The University of Melbourne may offer flexible study options, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. The course is not available as a VET qualification; it is a higher education degree.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing is A$102,884 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are approximately A$150. The estimated total cost is A$103,034. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Melbourne. They are subject to change, and students should confirm current fees on the provider's website. Additional expenses not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. For context, living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$21,000–A$25,000 per year, covering rent (approx. A$250–A$400 per week), groceries, and transport. The University of Melbourne's website (unimelb.edu.au) provides up-to-date fee schedules.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5–7.0, exact requirements vary by provider). For admission to a masters degree, applicants usually hold a bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent. Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs are not applicable for this course level, but students who do not meet direct entry requirements can explore pathway options through the University of Melbourne's international pathways. Always check the official entry requirements on the provider's website. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa.
This course has no mandatory work component. It does not include an internship, practicum, or work placement as a requirement for completion. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain part-time work experience in Melbourne's vibrant arts and publishing sectors.
The Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing is delivered at The University of Melbourne — Parkville, VIC. Parkville is a suburb just north of Melbourne's central business district, easily accessible by public transport (trams and trains). Melbourne is a major study destination with over 200,000 international students and more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering masters degrees. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$300 for a shared apartment. The city offers a rich cultural scene, including literary festivals, independent bookstores, and publishing houses, providing an ideal environment for creative writing students.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. As a full-time masters student, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a thriving arts scene and a diverse population. For a creative writing student, access to literary events, publishing internships, and a supportive community of writers is invaluable. The city is home to over 15 universities and many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of study options. Public transport is extensive, and the cost of living is manageable for students who budget carefully. However, consider factors like climate (cooler than Sydney), housing availability near campuses, and the competitive nature of the publishing industry. Research the neighbourhoods around Parkville, such as Carlton and Fitzroy, which are popular with students.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing at The University of Melbourne: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to confirm The University of Melbourne is registered (CRICOS 00116K) and that the course code 058718E is active. Filter by course level, field (Creative Arts), and city (Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit The University of Melbourne's international admissions page. Meet the entry requirements: submit academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required documents (e.g., portfolio or writing sample). Note application deadlines — typically semesters start in February and July. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After the university issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
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Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing 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.