Master of Creative Industries

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Anticipate, identify and develop knowledge of key technological developments and their relevance to creative practice
2. Evaluate and navigate change and uncertainty to confidently produce novel solutions
3. Create, pitch and develop strategies for creative projects and businesses
4. Develop and apply creative thinking and methodologies to produce innovative solutions
5. Engage respectfully with Indigenous approaches and knowledge to strengthen the creative sector

Advance your career in the creative or cultural sector with UC’s future-focused Master of Creative Industries. Offered fully online, on campus or both, this flexible degree lets you tailor your studies to your goals, with electives spanning marketing, user experience, conservation, entrepreneurship and finance for creative business.

Students can begin with UC’s Graduate Diploma in Creative Industries and build up a postgraduate qualification in stages. Not only will you enhance your understanding of the sector, but you'll be able to connect with audiences at a deeper level across digital spaces. 

Across your studies, you'll develop advanced skills to create, pitch and manage innovative projects. Learn how to anticipate emerging technologies and strengthen your cultural capability through Indigenous approaches to creativity. Apply your knowledge through research, work-integrated learning or a work-based project and graduate ready for senior roles such as creative director, agency leader, gallery manager or senior public servant in the creative sector.

Recommended study pattern

The Master of Creative Industries is a 48 credit point course, typically completed over two years part-time or one year full-time. Your study will combine core subjects, restricted choice units, and a final capstone project.

A standard full-time study pattern involves:

• Core foundation units to build advanced knowledge of the creative and cultural industries, plus restricted choice subjects to tailor your learning.
• Further specialist units alongside your research or professional project, applying your skills to an authentic industry challenge.

Specialisations you can focus on include:

• Digital Marketing
• Creative Leadership
• Design
• Heritage Materials Conservation

If you are studying part-time, we recommend completing 6 credit points per semester, starting with core units before moving into your chosen specialisation and capstone.

Award requirements

Completion of all subjects, as per the recommended study pattern.

Choose your subjects

Majors

To complete the Master of Creative Industries, you will study a mix of core and specialist subjects totalling 48 credit points. Core units provide advanced knowledge of the creative and cultural sectors, including leadership, innovation, enterprise, digital engagement, and Indigenous perspectives. You will also complete a major research or professional project, applying your skills to address an authentic industry challenge.

These required subjects give you the essential theoretical knowledge and practical experience to thrive in creative leadership roles, while preparing you for further specialisation in areas such as Digital Marketing, Creative Leadership, Design, or Heritage Materials Conservation.

Electives

As part of the Master of Creative Industries, you will choose four restricted choice units (worth 3 credit points each) to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals. These subjects let you deepen your expertise or broaden your skills across the creative and cultural sectors.

Options include areas scross different creative specialisations:

• Digital Marketing: social media strategy, advertising, and audience analytics
• Creative Leadership: communication, advocacy, and project management
• Design: visual communication, UX, and digital design
• Heritage Materials Conservation: preservation techniques and cultural significance

These units give you the flexibility to customise your learning experience, ensuring your studies are directly relevant to your professional ambitions.

Exit points

Alternative exits:

Students may exit early from the Master of Creative Industries with any of the following awards if they have met the requirements of that award:

• Graduate Diploma of Creative Industries
• Graduate Certificate in Creative Industries
• Graduate Certificate in Creative Leadership
• Graduate Certificate in Design
• Graduate Certificate in Digital Marketing
• Graduate Certificate in Heritage Materials Conservation

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $33,984

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

UC’s online learning is inspired by Canberra’s vibrant, progressive spirit. As the centre of Australian decision-making, Canberra is where ideas come to life—and we bring that energy to you, wherever you are. UC’s industry-focused approach connects you with expert guest speakers and hands-on projects that tackle real workplace challenges, boosting your employability and confidence. With flexible pathways and a renowned support network, UC helps you thrive and make a meaningful impact in your career..

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Applicants must have an undergraduate degree (AQF level 7) or equivalent as approved by the University Admissions.

Defence Members who hold an equivalent rank of O-1 or above as an officer or chaplain, or E06 and above as an SNCO, are eligible for direct entry into this Masters degree as part of the Veteran Tertiary Support Program.

You can use professional experience and prior learning to enter into a postgraduate qualification at UC through our Professional Pathway Entry program. If you have significant work experience or hold industry-recognised qualifications, this program could be your route to bypass undergraduate study and accelerate your career. Please touch base with our Future Students team to discuss your individual circumstances. 

An IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent).

At UC, we want to help you get the credit you deserve for the hard work you've already done. Whether it’s from previous study, vocational training, or even relevant work experience, you might be eligible to fast-track your degree, finish sooner, and save money along the way.

What Can Count for Credit?

You could gain credit for:

• Completed or partially completed tertiary studies (from a university, TAFE, or college).
• Vocational training at Certificate III level or higher (Australian Qualifications Framework).
• Relevant work experience (if it’s connected to your area of study).

How Does It Work?

If you’ve studied at an institution that has a formal agreement with UC, your credit application will be automatically assessed when you apply for admission—no extra steps needed.

If you’re a domestic student and want credit for other study or work experience, you can apply after accepting your offer to study.

Students studying online can access virtual Work Integrated Learning opportunities. This content includes on-demand guest lectures, industry case studies and industry projects.