Master of Design and Production (CRICOS course code 103430K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This program sits within the field of Performing Arts (n.e.c.), preparing graduates for leadership roles in theatre, film, events, and creative industries. Students develop advanced skills in design thinking, production management, and collaborative creative processes, underpinned by hands-on projects and industry engagement. The course is delivered at the vibrant Southbank campus, alongside leading arts organisations. With Australia's rich cultural landscape and Melbourne's status as a UNESCO City of Literature, this degree offers an immersive experience. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free, independent resource; all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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The Master of Design and Production (CRICOS 103430K) is a 2-year full-time masters degree offered by The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K), a prestigious government-funded university. As a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, it focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of design and production within the performing arts and broader creative sectors. The course equips students with expertise in set design, costume, lighting, sound, stage management, and production leadership. Graduates emerge ready to work as designers, producers, and creative directors in theatre, film, television, and live events. The program is registered on CRICOS, ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections for international students. With Melbourne's thriving arts scene and the Southbank campus located in the heart of the cultural precinct, students benefit from proximity to the Arts Centre, Malthouse Theatre, and Victorian College of the Arts.
This course falls under the field of education 100199 - Performing Arts, n.e.c., which encompasses a broad range of creative and technical skills applicable to live performance and media production. At the masters level, students typically engage in advanced coursework covering design concepts, production processes, project management, and collaborative practice. They develop a sophisticated understanding of the entire production cycle, from initial design to final delivery. Learning outcomes include the ability to conceptualise and execute complex production designs, lead interdisciplinary teams, and adapt to evolving industry technologies. While specific curriculum details are set by the university, the program emphasises creative problem-solving, critical analysis, and professional communication. Practical projects and industry placements (if offered) allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. International students benefit from exposure to Australian and global industry standards, enhancing their career prospects worldwide.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Design and Production has a duration of 2 years, equating to 104 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, which is typical for Australian higher education. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not require foundation studies. The program is offered on-campus at the Southbank campus, encouraging immersive, face-to-face learning with access to specialist facilities. While study mode details are confirmed by the provider, most coursework master's degrees involve a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and independent projects. International students should note that maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). The university may also offer part-time options in limited circumstances, but this can affect visa conditions – always check with the provider and the Department of Home Affairs.
For the Master of Design and Production, the indicative tuition fee listed on the CRICOS register is A$98,650 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) add A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$98,800. These fees are set by The University of Melbourne and are subject to annual review – always confirm current charges on the university's website (unimelb.edu.au). Importantly, international students must budget separately for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application fee. For a single student in Melbourne, living costs are typically around A$24,000–30,000 per year, including rent (A$200–400/week), groceries, and transport. The visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy recommends using the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity calculator for accurate estimates.
Entry requirements for the Master of Design and Production are set by The University of Melbourne. Based on the CRICOS profile, the English language proficiency guide is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). For a master's degree, applicants typically need a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., design, performing arts, or visual arts) with a strong academic record. Some programs may require a portfolio, audition, or relevant work experience. Applicants who do not meet direct entry may consider pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate or Diploma offered by the same university. For specific academic prerequisites, applicants should refer to the university's official website or contact their admissions office. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. HeadStart Academy advises consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa and entry advice.
The Master of Design and Production does not include a mandatory work component, as indicated on the CRICOS register. This means the degree is primarily academic, without compulsory internships or work placements. However, students may have opportunities for voluntary industry projects or extracurricular work experiences. While not a formal part of the course, gaining practical exposure can enhance employability. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Paid work cannot be a substitute for meeting course requirements. Students should ensure their work does not interfere with academic progress. For details on work rights and conditions, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or your visa grant letter.
This course is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Southbank campus, located at 234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC. Southbank is part of Melbourne's central arts precinct, adjacent to the Yarra River and within walking distance of Flinders Street Station. The campus houses state-of-the-art facilities for design, performance, and production, including theatres, workshops, and studios. Melbourne is home to over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses in the creative arts. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with venues like the Arts Centre Melbourne and the Australian Ballet, makes it an ideal study destination. Public transport is excellent, with trams, trains, and buses connecting Southbank to all suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are generally lower than in Sydney, but students should budget carefully. With a strong international student community (over 150,000), Melbourne offers a welcoming and diverse environment.
To study the Master of Design and Production, international students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution, with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and family expenses. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if the provider fails to deliver. Always check your visa conditions and maintain enrolment. For detailed guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Design and Production at The University of Melbourne:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Performing Arts), and location (VIC). Confirm that the course (103430K) and provider (00116K) are registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit The University of Melbourne's website (unimelb.edu.au) for entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and submission instructions. Prepare academic transcripts, a portfolio if required, and evidence of English proficiency.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, offering a rich environment for studying design and production. With over 40 CRICOS-registered providers in the city, students have access to world-class institutions like The University of Melbourne, Monash, and RMIT. The city is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable, with diverse food, arts, and sports scenes. Typical living costs: rent A$200–$400/week, groceries A$80–$150/week, and a monthly myki pass (public transport) around A$150. Student population exceeds 150,000 international students, creating a multicultural community. However, the cost of living can be high, especially in inner suburbs. Consider your budget, proximity to campus, and lifestyle preferences. Melbourne's temperate climate means warm summers and cool winters – prepare accordingly. If you thrive in a bustling, creative hub, Melbourne is an excellent choice.
Ready to start your journey in design and production? Explore the Master of Design and Production on the official University of Melbourne website, or use HeadStart Academy's course search to find more options.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Design and Production 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.