Master of Art therapy (CRICOS course code 077479B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 2 years. This program is designed for students who want to combine their passion for art with professional therapeutic practice, preparing graduates to work as art therapists in clinical, community, and educational settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00115M), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. La Trobe University is a leading Australian public university with campuses across Victoria, and this course is delivered at its Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus. Whether you're considering a career change or advancing your qualifications, this program offers a unique blend of creative and clinical skills. HeadStart Academy provides free, unbiased information to help you compare courses and navigate your study journey in Australia.
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The Master of Art Therapy falls under the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (n.e.c.), which focuses on using therapeutic techniques to improve well-being and functioning. At the masters level, students engage with advanced theoretical frameworks, research methods, and practical skills. While specific subjects vary, typical learning outcomes include understanding psychological theories, art therapy assessment and intervention, ethical practice, and reflective practice. Graduates are equipped to work with diverse populations, including those with mental health issues, trauma, disabilities, or chronic illness. The course emphasises experiential learning, with a significant work-integrated learning component (39 weeks of placement). This ensures students develop real-world competence under supervision. As a coursework masters, it combines taught modules with a research project or capstone experience, allowing students to deepen their expertise. Always confirm the exact curriculum with the provider, as institutions may update their syllabi.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), this program runs for 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual degree). Study mode is typically face-to-face on campus, though some components may be online. As a masters level course, students should expect a significant time commitment, including lectures, tutorials, independent research, and clinical placements. It is not a VET course, so there is no national code. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. La Trobe University may offer some flexibility, but the standard duration is fixed. For precise information on timetables and mode, visit the provider's website.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$86,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$86,000. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city; in Melbourne, students should budget around A$500–A$800 per week for rent, food, transport, and utilities. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel. Always check La Trobe University's official website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are subject to change and may vary based on study load or year of commencement.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.0 (exact requirements may vary). A bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., psychology, social work, visual arts) is generally expected, and some background in psychology or counselling may be required. Some institutions also require a portfolio or an interview. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not listed for this course, but La Trobe University may offer English language courses or pre-masters programs for students who do not meet direct entry. Always verify with the provider for the most accurate and up-to-date entry criteria. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Consult the provider's admissions page for detailed prerequisites.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 39 weeks of placement at 19.3 hours per week, totalling approximately 753 hours. This is a substantial part of the program, designed to give students supervised clinical experience in art therapy settings. Placements may occur in hospitals, community health centres, schools, aged care facilities, or private practice. Students develop practical skills in assessment, intervention, and record-keeping under the guidance of qualified art therapists. The work component is integrated into the curriculum, meaning it is assessed and contributes to the final qualification. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for unpaid placements; the Student visa (Subclass 500) permits work-integrated learning that is a compulsory part of the course. For more details on placement arrangements, contact La Trobe University.
The Master of Art Therapy is delivered at La Trobe University's Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus, located in Bundoora, Victoria. Bundoora is a northern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 15 km from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and the tram network. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people, with a vibrant student community. There are over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, with a significant concentration in Victoria. Studying in Melbourne offers access to a diverse cultural scene, world-class healthcare facilities, and numerous clinical placement opportunities. The cost of living in Melbourne is generally slightly lower than Sydney, but still requires careful budgeting. Students can expect to pay around A$250–A$400 per week for shared accommodation near campus. La Trobe's Bundoora campus provides modern facilities, libraries, and student support services tailored to international students.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from La Trobe University; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa; and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) evidence showing you intend to stay temporarily for study. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to change). Note that working more than permitted may breach visa conditions. For visa application guidance, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. Ensure you also meet the English language requirements for the visa (typically IELTS 6.0 overall, but the course may require higher).
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a multicultural environment and excellent educational infrastructure. For art therapy students, the city provides a rich clinical landscape with numerous hospitals, community health centres, and arts organisations. The cost of living is manageable with careful planning. However, the climate can be variable, and the city is larger than many international students may be used to. Consider your preferences for urban versus suburban living, as Bundoora is a quieter area compared to the city centre. Public transport connects the campus to the CBD within 30–45 minutes. Melbourne's student population is large and diverse, with many support networks. If you value a vibrant arts scene, excellent healthcare facilities, and a strong education system, Melbourne could be an ideal choice. Always research accommodation, transport, and part-time job opportunities before arriving.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Art Therapy at La Trobe University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses. Filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Rehabilitation Therapies), and location (Victoria). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (La Trobe University code 00115M). Read course details and entry requirements.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit La Trobe University's international admissions page. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), resume, and possibly a portfolio. Check application deadlines (typically semesters start in February and July). Submit your application online. Some courses may have a quota.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Then apply for the student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Include your CoE, OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Pay the visa application charge. Wait for a decision. Once granted, you can make travel arrangements. Remember to comply with visa conditions after arrival.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more masters courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy, or contact La Trobe University directly for application advice.
Master of Art therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.