Master of Contemporary Art (CRICOS course code 075494G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This program is designed for creative professionals seeking to deepen their practice and engage critically with contemporary art discourse. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment and leads to a globally recognised qualification. HeadStart Academy provides independent, data-driven information sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed study decisions.
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Master of Contemporary Art (075494G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) (AQF Level 9) offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), a leading Australian Government university (CRICOS 00116K). The course is classified under field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 109999 - Creative Arts, n.e.c., covering interdisciplinary contemporary art practices. Over 104 weeks (2 years), students develop advanced creative and critical skills, preparing for careers in fine arts, curation, and academia. The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, and this program benefits from its strong research culture and industry connections. International students are protected by the ESOS Act and must meet student visa requirements.
As a Masters Degree (Coursework) in contemporary art, the curriculum focuses on studio-based practice, art theory, and research methodologies. Students typically produce a body of creative work accompanied by a written exegesis, demonstrating proficiency in contemporary art discourse. The field of Creative Arts (n.e.c.) encompasses a broad range of practices, including visual arts, digital media, performance, and installation. Graduates emerge with advanced conceptual skills, critical thinking, and the ability to contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary art. While the specific syllabus is set by The University of Melbourne, this qualification aligns with AQF Level 9 expectations for depth of knowledge and independent research.
The Master of Contemporary Art has a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – not a dual degree or combined program. The course does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to engage in full-time study to maintain compliance with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Flexible study options may be available; confirm directly with The University of Melbourne. International students must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Contemporary Art is A$98,650, with non-tuition fees of approximately A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$98,800. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The University of Melbourne sets and reviews fees annually. This total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, living expenses in Melbourne (Victoria) are approximately A$30,000–A$40,000 per year, including rent (A$250–A$450/week), groceries (A$80–A$150/week), and transport (A$50–A$80/week). Always confirm current fees on the provider's website before applying.
International applicants typically require an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) as evidence of English proficiency. For this level (AQF Level 9), a recognised bachelor degree in a related field (e.g., fine arts, visual arts) is generally expected. Some institutions may consider professional experience. The University of Melbourne may also require a portfolio or interview. Foundation or pathway programs are not offered for this course, but applicants who do not meet direct entry can explore alternative pathways such as graduate certificates or diplomas. Consult The University of Melbourne's official admissions page for detailed entry requirements.
No work component – this course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain part-time work experience while studying.
The Master of Contemporary Art is delivered at The University of Melbourne’s Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC. Southbank is Melbourne’s premier arts precinct, home to the Victorian College of the Arts, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Arts Centre. This location offers students exceptional access to galleries, studios, and cultural institutions. Melbourne has over 350 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 8,000 courses. The city’s student population exceeds 250,000, making it a vibrant and affordable destination for international students.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS course, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions also require satisfactory course attendance and progress. For detailed advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Explore The University of Melbourne's profile (CRICOS 00116K) and confirm the course (075494G) meets your goals. HeadStart Academy's free database can help you compare providers by course level, field, and location. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through The University of Melbourne's online portal. Prepare required documents – academic transcripts, English test scores, portfolio (if required), and meet application deadlines. The university's website provides full guidance. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa. Include OSHC, evidence of funds, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply early.
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, with a thriving arts scene, numerous galleries, festivals, and creative communities. The city consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable. International students benefit from excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting Southbank to the city centre and suburbs. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$300–A$450. The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus places you at the heart of the arts district. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Melbourne offers a rich selection of creative arts courses at all levels. HeadStart Academy resources can help you weigh location, costs, and career outcomes.
Every provider listed on HeadStart Academy is CRICOS-registered, meaning they meet Australian Government quality standards. As at April 2026, there are 1,556 registered providers offering 26,433 courses. The ESOS Act protects international students' tuition fees and ensures refunds for course non-delivery. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – no commissions or referral fees. All data comes directly from the official CRICOS register. Use our platform to filter courses by state, level, and cost, and always verify details with the provider.
Ready to apply? Start by using HeadStart Academy's free CRICOS search to find more courses like this. Then visit The University of Melbourne's website for application details.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Contemporary Art 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.