Master of Design (Contemporary Art) (CRICOS course code 095763D) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 2 years 1 month (~107 weeks). This program sits within the field of Visual Arts and Crafts (code 100300) and is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their creative practice and theoretical understanding of contemporary art. UniSA is a government-funded university (CRICOS 00121B) with a strong reputation in the arts, located in Adelaide’s cultural hub. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance—all data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you are exploring study options or ready to apply, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate CRICOS courses across Australia. Remember, every student enrolled in a CRICOS course is protected by the ESOS Act.
The Master of Design (Contemporary Art) focuses on advanced visual arts and crafts, blending studio practice with critical theory. Students typically explore contemporary art movements, conceptual development, material experimentation, and professional practice. Graduates develop skills in creative research, artistic communication, and project management, preparing them for careers as practising artists, curators, or arts administrators. This AQF Level 9 program assumes prior undergraduate study in a relevant field and offers a structured pathway to deepen expertise. While specific syllabi vary, the course aims to produce independent thinkers capable of contributing to the contemporary art landscape.
This Masters Degree (Coursework) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years 1 month (107 weeks), studied full-time on campus. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The 107-week duration meets the Australian student visa requirement for a two-year program, which may support post-study work eligibility. For any variations in study mode (e.g., part-time), international students should check visa conditions and consult the provider.
Indicative tuition fees for the Master of Design (Contemporary Art) are A$76,600 total, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$76,600. Note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For reference, international students in Adelaide typically budget A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs (including rent, groceries, and transport). Always confirm current fees directly with University of South Australia (UniSA) before applying, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Visit the provider’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee schedule.
International applicants generally need an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) and completion of a recognised bachelor’s degree in a related field. Specific academic requirements are determined by University of South Australia (UniSA); applicants should check the course page for detailed prerequisites. No foundation or pathway programs are listed for this course, but applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may consider pathway options offered by the provider. This guidance is indicative—always verify entry criteria directly with the institution.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary or paid work subject to visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work is not a requirement of the course but can complement the learning experience.
The Master of Design (Contemporary Art) is delivered at the University of South Australia’s City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300. Public transport (buses, trams, trains) connects the campus to suburbs and the Adelaide CBD. Studying in Adelaide gives access to a thriving arts scene, including the Adelaide Festival and numerous galleries.
To study this CRICOS-registered course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UniSA. As an ESOS-protected course, your fees and rights are safeguarded. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Adelaide is a compact, affordable city with a strong focus on the arts. It has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. For creative arts students, Adelaide offers a supportive ecosystem: galleries like the Art Gallery of South Australia, public art commissions, and a calendar of festivals. Living costs are among the lowest of Australian capital cities, and the city’s size makes it easy to network with industry professionals. Combined with UniSA’s reputation, this course provides a solid foundation for a career in contemporary art. However, consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and career opportunities when choosing your study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Design (Contemporary Art) at University of South Australia (UniSA): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Creative Arts), and city (Adelaide). Verify the course code 095763D and provider CRICOS 00121B. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, prepare English test results (IELTS 6.5–7.0), assemble academic transcripts, and submit your application by UniSA’s deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to apply? Visit the University of South Australia (UniSA) website for the latest entry requirements and application deadlines.
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Master of Design (Contemporary Art) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.