Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) Australia

Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced)

Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) (CRICOS course code 102928C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian National University over 2 years. This advanced program is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their creative practice and critical engagement with contemporary art and design. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolments, ensuring you are protected under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses in Australia, this program represents a prestigious option in the creative arts field. The course is delivered in English at the Australian National University campus in Canberra City West, ACT, providing access to world-class facilities and a vibrant capital city known for its cultural institutions. Whether you aim to pursue a career in fine arts, design, or academia, this degree offers a structured pathway to advanced practice and research.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

The Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) (CRICOS 102928C) is a postgraduate program at AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree by Coursework) offered by Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C). This course is classified under Field of Education 10 - Creative Arts (109999 Creative Arts, n.e.c.). It is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field and wish to extend their skills through advanced studio practice, critical theory, and research methodologies. The program typically involves a combination of coursework and a substantial independent project, culminating in a portfolio or thesis. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student visas (Subclass 500). The Australian Government's ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), providing you with accurate and current information. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, so you can confidently explore your study options.

What You'll Study

This advanced master's program in contemporary art and design equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to critically engage with current creative practices. The curriculum typically covers advanced studio work, art theory, research methods, and professional practice. Students explore diverse media and approaches, from digital art to traditional techniques, while developing a nuanced understanding of the cultural and social contexts of art and design. The program emphasises independent research and creative experimentation, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the creative industries, academia, or independent practice. Please note that for specific syllabus details, you should consult Australian National University directly, as curriculum content is determined by the institution.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The course does not have a mandatory work component, although students may seek part-time work during their studies in accordance with student visa conditions. As an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check your visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$94,620 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$746, bringing the estimated total to A$95,366. Note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For current fees and any updates, always check the Australian National University website (http://www.anu.edu.au/). HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only and recommends confirming with the institution before applying.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency. For this program, an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent) is often required. Additionally, you should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field, such as art, design, or visual arts. Some programs may also require a portfolio of work or an interview. Since entry requirements can vary, it is essential to check directly with Australian National University for the most up-to-date prerequisites. If you do not meet the entry requirements, the provider may offer pathway options or foundation programs. Always consult the institution for specific advice.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a coursework-based program without a required internship or placement. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work part-time during your studies: up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain work experience and offset living costs. Remember to comply with all visa conditions.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered on campus at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, known for its high quality of life, safe environment, and vibrant cultural scene including the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, and numerous museums. The cost of living in Canberra is moderate: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$400–500, groceries about A$80–120, and public transport approximately A$40–50. The campus is well connected by bus and light rail. Canberra has over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers, including two major universities: Australian National University and University of Canberra.

Student Visa

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: confirming your enrolment with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian National University, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, meeting English proficiency, and maintaining adequate financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and health cover. You must also obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As a visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Remember to adhere to visa conditions; work rights are subject to change. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) at Australian National University:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses, check CRICOS registration, and verify that your chosen course and provider meet your goals. You can filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Creative Arts), and location (Canberra, ACT).

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Australian National University's official website (http://www.anu.edu.au/) to check entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and application deadlines. Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, portfolio, personal statement, and references. Submit your application through the university's online portal.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.

Is Canberra Right for You?

Canberra offers a unique study environment: it is a planned city with a strong focus on education, government, and culture. The student population is diverse, with thousands of international students from over 100 countries. Living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an affordable option. The city has excellent public transport, numerous parks, and a vibrant food scene. For art and design students, Canberra's national institutions provide unparalleled access to collections and galleries. However, some may find Canberra smaller and quieter compared to major capitals. Consider your lifestyle preferences when choosing. HeadStart Academy provides resources to help you decide, including city guides and student reviews.

Start your journey to study art and design in Australia — use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered courses and providers today.

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Source-backed course facts

Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced)
CRICOS course code
102928C
Provider
Australian National University (00120C)
Course level
Masters Degree (Coursework)
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
104 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$94,620
Estimated total (indicative)
A$95,366
Delivery locations
Canberra City West
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee for this 2-year program is A$94,620, with non-tuition fees of A$746, resulting in an estimated total of A$95,366. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian National University before applying.
According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 2 years (104 weeks). It is a full-time program delivered in English. The course is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a mandatory work component or foundation studies. Students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
Entry requirements typically include a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., art, design, visual arts), and English proficiency demonstrated by an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). A portfolio of work may also be required. Since exact requirements vary, check Australian National University's official website for the most current information. If you don't meet the requirements, ask the provider about pathway options.
This course is delivered on campus at Australian National University in Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the capital of Australia, offering a safe, multicultural environment with many cultural institutions. The campus is accessible by public transport. If you prefer online or other locations, note that this course is only offered at this location as per the CRICOS register.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$95,366 for Master of Contemporary Practices in Art and Design (Advanced) (tuition A$94,620). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Australian National University before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 102928C, offered by Australian National University (provider code 00120C). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.