Are you dreaming of a creative career in visual arts? The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Art) (CRICOS course code 093589G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 qualification, offered at the Southbank campus in Melbourne’s arts precinct, immerses you in studio practice, critical theory, and contemporary art debates. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00116K), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to exhibit, teach, or innovate in the creative industries, this degree provides a rigorous foundation. Below, we break down costs, entry requirements, visa steps, and everything you need to plan your study journey—all sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Art) (CRICOS course code 093589G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10) with a focus on Visual Arts and Crafts (1003). It prepares graduates for professional practice in visual arts, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, and installation. As a CRICOS-registered qualification, it is designed for international students, with English as the language of instruction. The University of Melbourne is a government-owned, Group of Eight institution, consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this degree stands out for its emphasis on critical thinking and creative experimentation.
This Visual Arts and Crafts program develops technical skills in traditional and contemporary media, alongside art history, theory, and professional practice. Students engage in studio-based learning, critiques, and exhibitions. Graduates typically emerge with a portfolio of works, conceptual rigour, and the ability to analyse and create art within cultural contexts. While specific syllabi vary, the field of education (100399 Visual Arts and Crafts, n.e.c.) covers a broad range of artistic practices. The degree also fosters transferable skills in research, communication, and project management, valuable for careers in arts management, curation, education, or independent practice. No dual qualification or foundation studies are attached to this course.
The CRICOS register lists a duration of 3 years (156 weeks). This is a full-time, on-campus program delivered in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award). Students attend classes at the Southbank campus, part of Melbourne’s vibrant arts district. While the course is not available online, it may include some blended learning components. The 156-week period includes scheduled breaks, allowing for work rights during holidays (see visa section). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees as recorded on the CRICOS register are A$131,432 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) amount to A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$131,582. Please note: these figures are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by The University of Melbourne and subject to change. The provider’s website (http://www.unimelb.edu.au/) should be consulted for the most current fees. Additionally, you must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (Melbourne average: weekly rent ~A$350–500, groceries ~A$80–150, transport ~A$40), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710). These costs are not included in the CRICOS figures. Melbourne, home to 14 CRICOS-registered providers offering fine arts courses, has a thriving student community with excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting Southbank.
The University of Melbourne typically requires international applicants to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification, with a competitive ATAR or equivalent. English language proficiency is essential: IELTS overall 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent (TOEFL, PTE). Some prior study in art or design may be beneficial but is not mandatory. A portfolio may be required as part of the application process. Foundation studies or pathway programs (e.g., Trinity College Foundation Studies) can help meet academic and English requirements. Always check the provider’s specific entry criteria—these are general guidelines only.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not compromise your studies.
The program is delivered at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank (SouthBank campus) in the suburb of Southbank, Victoria, 3006. This location is part of Melbourne’s cultural heart, near the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, and the Melbourne Recital Centre. The campus is well-served by public transport (tram routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72 along St Kilda Road, plus Flinders Street Station a 15-minute walk). Southbank is a vibrant area with housing options ranging from student apartments to shared houses. Melbourne has over 50,000 international students enrolled in bachelor degrees across multiple institutions, creating a diverse and supportive environment.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living expenses, and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. The Department of Home Affairs allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. Consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Art) at The University of Melbourne:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the course code 093589G to verify the provider’s registration on the CRICOS register. The University of Melbourne is CRICOS 00116K. Ensure the course meets your study goals and state preferences (Victoria).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through The University of Melbourne’s online portal (http://www.unimelb.edu.au/). You’ll need to meet entry requirements (academic qualifications, English test scores) and possibly provide a portfolio. Check application deadlines (typically October for February intake).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you’ll receive a CoE, which is required for the Student visa (Subclass 500) application. Lodge your visa with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement.
Ready to apply? Start your journey on The University of Melbourne's website.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual 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.