Master of Fine Art (CRICOS course code 079690E) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 2 years. This course falls under the field of Fine Arts (100301) within the Creative Arts discipline, offering advanced research and practice in visual arts and crafts. As a CRICOS-registered course at a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A), international students can study with confidence knowing the course meets Australian Government standards. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) is a public university with a strong reputation in art and design, located in Melbourne's vibrant cultural district. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses in creative arts, making it a top destination for fine arts study. This course is delivered at RMIT's City campus at 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne. With an estimated total cost of A$77,546 (including tuition and non-tuition fees), students should budget for additional expenses such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always check with RMIT for current fees and specifics.
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The Master of Fine Art is a research-oriented degree that enables students to deepen their artistic practice and theoretical knowledge in fine arts. The curriculum typically involves advanced studio work, critical theory seminars, and a major research project or thesis. Students explore contemporary issues in visual arts, develop independent research skills, and produce a body of work for exhibition. Graduates emerge with high-level skills in art making, critique, and project management, preparing them for careers as professional artists, curators, academics, or creative leaders. While the exact syllabus is set by RMIT, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets national quality standards for international students. Melbourne's thriving arts scene—with galleries, festivals, and studios—provides an enriching environment for fine arts study.
According to the CRICOS register, this course is 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 mandatory work component integrated into the course. Students are expected to attend classes and research activities at the RMIT City campus in Melbourne. Part-time options may be available, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must generally maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.
Fees shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Master of Fine Art at RMIT, the estimated tuition fee is A$76,800, non-tuition fees (such as materials and student services) are A$746, giving an estimated total of A$77,546. These fees are set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and are subject to change. Important: This total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). International students in Melbourne typically budget approximately A$500–A$700 per week for living expenses. Always confirm current fees directly with RMIT before applying.
Entry requirements for a Masters Degree (Research) like this one typically include a bachelor's degree in fine arts or a related field, with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required—common tests include IELTS (typically 5.5–7.0 overall, varying by provider), TOEFL, or PTE Academic. RMIT may also consider relevant professional experience. Foundation or pathway programs (such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma) may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements—contact RMIT for details. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend consulting RMIT's official website or a registered MARA agent for tailored advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not interfere with study requirements.
This course is delivered at RMIT University – 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 5 million people, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. It has excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting the campus to suburbs. The city is home to numerous galleries, museums, and creative hubs, making it ideal for fine arts students. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate—indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. With over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in the city, international students have many study options.
International students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the course, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course terms, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act protects international students in Australia, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, offering a multicultural environment, excellent education institutions, and a thriving arts community. If you are considering a Master of Fine Art, Melbourne provides numerous galleries, public art spaces, and creative networks. The city also has a strong job market for artists and creative professionals. However, consider factors like climate (temperate with cool winters), cost of living (higher than some regional areas), and lifestyle preferences. Melbourne's public transport makes it easy to explore the city and surrounding regions. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide, you can compare courses in other cities too—but RMIT's fine arts program is one of the most respected in Australia.
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Master of Fine Art is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute 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.