Master of Fine Arts (Production) - CRICOS 093579J

Course overview

The Master of Fine Arts (Production) is a research-focused masters degree that equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in theatre production. With a duration of 2 years (104 weeks), the program is taught entirely in English and leads to a single qualification. You will explore areas such as directing, design, stage management, and production management, preparing for leadership roles in the performing arts industry. The course is offered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), a prestigious institution with over 150 years of history. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00116K), UniMelb meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring you benefit from ESOS Act protections. The course code 093579J is your unique identifier when applying for a student visa. Melbourne, the host city, is home to over 200,000 international students and boasts a thriving cultural sector, including theatres like the Arts Centre Melbourne and Malthouse Theatre.

What you'll study

This Masters Degree (Research) focuses on Drama and Theatre Studies (field 100103), a sub-discipline of Creative Arts. At this level, you will engage in advanced critical analysis, creative practice, and research methodologies specific to theatre production. Graduates typically develop capabilities in conceptualising, planning, and executing complex theatre productions, as well as leadership and project management skills. The curriculum emphasises independent research, often culminating in a major creative project or thesis. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, you can expect to study theatre history, contemporary performance theory, production design, and collaborative processes. This field of education prepares you for careers as directors, producers, designers, or arts administrators in Australia and globally. The AQF Level 9 designation means the course requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for entry.

Duration and study mode

According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Fine Arts (Production) has a standard duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards). Study mode is typically full-time on-campus at the Parkville campus. Part-time options may be available for domestic students, but international students are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions. The language of instruction ensures you develop professional English skills essential for the Australian workplace. As this is not a VET course, there is no national code (N/A). Foundation studies are not included, but the provider may offer pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – check with the institution.

Fees (indicative)

The indicative fees for Master of Fine Arts (Production) are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always confirm with The University of Melbourne directly.

| Fee Type | Amount (A$) | |----------|-------------| | Tuition | 98,650 | | Non-tuition | 150 | | Estimated Total | 98,800 |

Note: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Indicatively, OSHC costs around A$500–$700 per year, and living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at A$30,000–$35,000 per year (including rent, food, and transport). For current fees, visit the provider's website at unimelb.edu.au.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for Master of Fine Arts (Production) are set by The University of Melbourne. Generally, you need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., performing arts, theatre studies) with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required – typical scores are IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent), though this varies. You may also need to submit a portfolio, audition, or attend an interview. As this is a research masters, a research proposal may be required. If you do not meet direct entry, the provider offers pathway programs – refer to their international admissions page. Remember that CRICOS registration ensures the institution meets quality standards for international students.

Work component

This course has no compulsory work component, meaning it does not include mandatory internships or placements. However, as a full-time student on a Subclass 500 visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This flexibility allows you to gain industry experience while studying. Many students in the creative arts find casual roles in theatre production, events, or arts administration. Work rights are subject to visa conditions – always check your visa grant letter.

Delivery locations

The Master of Fine Arts (Production) is delivered at The University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a suburb just north of Melbourne’s central business district, known for its university precinct, parks, and cultural institutions. The campus is well-served by public transport (trams and trains) and is within walking distance of the city’s arts and entertainment districts. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city with a population of over 5 million, including more than 200,000 international students. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, with numerous theatres, galleries, and festivals. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–$350, groceries A$100–$150, and public transport A$40–$60.

Student visa

To study this course on campus, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (093579J) at a registered provider (00116K). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for fees, living costs, and travel. As of 2023, the 48-hour per fortnight work cap applies during term. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including the Tuition Protection Service. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Fine Arts (Production) at The University of Melbourne: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy’s free search to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the provider meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements, prepare your portfolio or audition, and submit your application before the deadline. Provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). The university will assess your application. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you’ll get a CoE. Then submit your visa application online, including OSHC evidence and financial documents. Wait for approval and plan your travel to Melbourne.

Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy’s free search to explore more CRICOS-registered courses and providers. Start your Australian study journey today.

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