The Master of Arts (Visual Arts) by Coursework degree requires students to complete 16 courses totalling 96 units. The full-time load for one semester's coursework is four courses (24 units). A candidate's program may be tailored to meet a variety of interests through structuring a study pathway through a mix of Studio Practice courses, Core and additional Theoretical courses, and Fieldwork and Research courses. The latter may be undertaken in the between-semester breaks.

Studio Practice courses will be conducted through individually supervised and directed project work. Additional Theoretical courses will be conducted in conjunction with existing Honours level courses, with a higher level of output and assessed at a graduate level. Individual programs of study may vary in their structure within given requirements. Fieldwork and Research courses may be conducted either as Group Projects (subject to student numbers and availability or resources), or through individually supervised and directed project work.

The Prescribed Authority may admit persons who hold, or expect to hold, a three year pass degree from an Australian University or other such qualifications deemed by the Prescribed Authority to be an equivalent qualification. A person who does not hold the required degree but who in addition to appropriate undergraduate qualifications has: (a) obtained practical professional experience, or (b) made a contribution to scholarship in the relevant field of study may also constitute an adequate qualification for the admission of the person as a candidate.