Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music (CRICOS course code 099323G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in the creative arts, with a focus on fine arts and music. As an AQF Level 10 qualification, it represents the highest level of academic achievement in Australia. The University of Melbourne is a CRICOS-registered provider (00116K) and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight. Located in Victoria's vibrant capital, the course is delivered at the Southbank campus, part of the Melbourne Arts Precinct. With the course code 099323G, this doctorate offers international students the opportunity to contribute original knowledge to the field while benefiting from Australia's strong ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourcing data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music (CRICOS course code 099323G) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This program falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically within Performing Arts (1001) and Music (100101). As a doctoral degree, it focuses on original research, critical analysis, and the creation of new knowledge in fine arts and music. Students are expected to produce a substantial thesis or creative work accompanied by a written component. The University of Melbourne is a government-owned institution with a long history of research excellence. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international students. For more information about CRICOS registration, see our glossary.
This doctoral program in fine arts and music is designed for advanced research and creative practice. Students typically engage in independent research under the supervision of academic experts, culminating in a thesis or a portfolio of creative works with a scholarly component. The field of creative arts encompasses disciplines such as visual arts, music, theatre, and film. At the doctoral level, students are expected to make a significant and original contribution to knowledge, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas. While the specific syllabus is determined by the university, graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, or high-level professional practice in the arts. The program is conducted in English, and students must meet the university's English language requirements.
According to the CRICOS register, Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree or combined program. Students are expected to study full-time on campus, though some components may involve off-site research. The 4-year duration is standard for doctoral programs in Australia, though actual completion times may vary depending on the student's progress. International students should ensure they maintain valid enrolment for the duration of their student visa. The course does not include foundation studies or VET components.
The indicative fees for Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: - Tuition fee: A$218,016 - Non-tuition fee: A$0 - Estimated total: A$218,016 Please note that these fees are indicative only and are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at approximately A$25,000–$35,000 per year, covering rent, groceries, and transport. We recommend checking the university's official website for the most current fee information. There are no mandatory non-tuition fees listed, but students should budget for materials and equipment related to their research.
International students must meet the entry requirements set by The University of Melbourne. For this doctoral degree, a strong academic background is required, typically a Master's degree in a relevant field or a Bachelor's degree with honours. English language proficiency is usually demonstrated through an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5. Some students may need to provide a research proposal or portfolio. Foundation or pathway options are not offered as part of this course; students should contact the university directly for advice on preparatory programs. It is essential to verify the exact requirements on the university's website, as they may change. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the CRICOS register for the most up-to-date information.
Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music does not include a mandatory work component. This means there is no internship, placement, or work experience built into the course. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks) subject to visa conditions. Any employment is separate from the course and not assessed. For more details on work rights, refer to our student visa guide.
This course is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC 3006. Southbank is part of Melbourne's cultural precinct, close to the CBD and accessible via public transport (trams and trains). Melbourne is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and has a large international student population. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$400–$550, groceries A$80–$150, and a monthly transport pass about A$150–$200. The Southbank campus offers state-of-the-art facilities for creative arts research.
International students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2025, the visa application charge is around A$1,600. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For detailed visa information, visit our student visa guide. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; please consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music at The University of Melbourne: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field (Creative Arts), and location (Victoria). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit The University of Melbourne's website to check entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and referee reports. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once the university issues your CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC and sufficient funds.
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Doctor of Philosophy - Fine Arts and Music 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.