Master of Design Curtin University

Master of Design — Curtin University (CRICOS 103008B)

Master of Design (CRICOS course code 103008B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Curtin University over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program sits within the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (code 100501), preparing graduates for advanced roles in design thinking, visual communication, and creative leadership. Curtin University (CRICOS 00301J) is a government-owned institution based in Bentley, Western Australia. All CRICOS-registered courses meet Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. As you explore this course, use the data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to compare options and make informed decisions. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you navigate the 26,433 courses offered by 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia.

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What you'll study

The Master of Design is a coursework-based masters degree that deepens expertise in design principles, research methodologies, and professional practice. Students typically engage with advanced concepts in graphic design, user experience, branding, and design strategy. The program fosters critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and project management skills applicable across industries such as advertising, digital media, publishing, and corporate communications. While specific subjects are set by Curtin University, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate mastery of design theory, ability to lead complex design projects, and capacity to innovate within global and cultural contexts. The field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies encompasses both traditional and digital design disciplines, preparing graduates for roles as design directors, creative strategists, UX/UI designers, and art directors.

Duration and study mode

The Master of Design is recorded on the CRICOS register with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). This is typical for Australian Masters by coursework programs, allowing international students to qualify for post-study work visas. Instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification — no dual or combined degree options are listed on CRICOS. Curtin University offers this program on a full-time basis at its Bentley campus. Students should check with the provider for any part-time or online study options, which may affect visa conditions. The CRICOS register reflects the standard full-time duration for student visa purposes.

Fees

Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) are: tuition A$61,532, non-tuition fees A$1,000, for an estimated total of A$62,532. These fees are set by Curtin University and are subject to change — always confirm with the provider before applying. The estimated total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For reference, international students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (around A$21,000 per year as per Department of Home Affairs), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Visit Curtin University's official website at www.curtin.edu.au for the most current fee schedule.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements for this Masters level course typically include a bachelor's degree in a related field (design, fine arts, or similar) from a recognised institution. English language proficiency is expected at IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some programs may require a portfolio or interview. Curtin University may offer pathways for students who do not meet direct entry, such as a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. Always refer to the provider's official admissions page for precise requirements and application processes. Note that meeting minimum entry does not guarantee admission; offers are subject to academic assessment and available places.

Work component

This course includes no mandatory work component. The CRICOS register confirms 'No work component' for course 103008B. While some students may seek internships or industry projects independently, these are not a formal part of the program. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work-right flexibility allows students to gain part-time experience in design-related roles if opportunities arise.

Delivery locations

The Master of Design is delivered at Curtin University of Technology — Bentley, Western Australia. Bentley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of WA. Perth is home to over 2 million people and has a vibrant student community, with several CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The cost of living in Perth is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–A$300, groceries A$70–A$90, and public transport A$30–A$50. The city has reliable bus and train services connecting Bentley campus to the CBD and other suburbs. Studying in Western Australia offers proximity to beautiful natural landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, and a growing economy.

Student visa

International students enrolling in this course will require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin University. Key visa requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency (if not from an exempt country). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For detailed and up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Design at Curtin University:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Curtin University is CRICOS-registered (00301J) and that course 103008B meets your study goals.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on Curtin University's website. Prepare your academic transcripts, portfolio (if required), and English language test results. Submit your online application through the university's admissions portal.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Curtin will issue a CoE. Use this document to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for the GTE assessment, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. Apply well in advance of your intended start date.

Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy and contact Curtin University for the latest entry details.

Other courses at Curtin University

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Source-backed course facts

Master of Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Curtin 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 Design
CRICOS course code
103008B
Provider
Curtin University (00301J)
Course level
Masters Degree (Coursework)
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
104 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$61,532
Estimated total (indicative)
A$62,532
Delivery locations
Bentley
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

Indicative fees for Master of Design (CRICOS 103008B) are tuition A$61,532, non-tuition A$1,000, totalling A$62,532 according to the CRICOS register (April 2026). This does not include OSHC, living expenses, or visa application fees. Fees are set by Curtin University and may change — always confirm directly with the provider.
The Master of Design is listed as 2 years (104 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This is the standard full-time duration for a Masters by coursework in Australia, allowing international students to meet visa conditions and potentially qualify for post-study work rights.
Entry typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., design, fine arts) and English proficiency at IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Some programs may ask for a portfolio. Curtin University may offer pathway options like a Graduate Certificate. Exact requirements are set by the provider — check Curtin's website.
The Master of Design is delivered at Curtin University's Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia. Bentley is a suburb of Perth, which has a moderate cost of living and good public transport links. The campus is well-connected to the city centre via bus and train.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$62,532 for Master of Design (tuition A$61,532). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Curtin University before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 103008B, offered by Curtin University (provider code 00301J). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.