Master of Design specialising in Illustration and Animation

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MADES

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$44,500

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115905C

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Design?

Do you want to make a difference to the world by combining creativity and communication?

If you are a visual storyteller, and looking to advance your skills, then the Master of Design specialising in Illustration and Animation is for you. Gain expertise in theory, technical skills, and professional practice to drive your creative journey. Adelaide University will equip you with the expertise to become a leader in the field of illustration and animation. Advance your skills and understanding to confidently step into your creative career. Be prepared to make a difference and influence lives, culture, and industries.

Overview

With our Master of Design specialising in Illustration and Animation, you’ll develop advanced skills as an adaptable and dynamic designer. We’ll equip you to be a storyteller of the future, with the ability to evolve in an ever-changing industry. Gain the knowledge and proficiency to shape a successful creative future.

You’ll take your learning from theory to practical. Learn curriculum that is industry-relevant and practical in nature. Get hands-on experience to take your career to the next level.

Discover and develop advanced skills in innovative tools to support your creative process, from planning to delivery. You’ll graduate with the expertise to apply research in creative projects and go beyond creativity to understand the why and the how.

Be prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world in various ways, blending creativity with communication to enrich our lives, culture, and industries.

Key features

Develop advanced technical skills and knowledge in illustration and animation.
Learn from teachers who are practising professionals with strong links to industry.
Work on real-life projects in professional studio spaces. 
Build networks and relationships with the design and animation industries – locally, nationally, and internationally.
Exit from your studies early and graduate with a graduate diploma qualification. 
Use this qualification as a pathway to further studies, including PhD studies.

What you'll learn

Our Master of Design specialising in Illustration and Animation will refine your technical and professional capabilities to make your creative mark.

You’ll develop your understanding of practical and theoretical expertise to become a highly skilled and confident visual storyteller.

Study core courses designed to strengthen your research skills and apply creative principles, strategies, and practices across a range of projects and creative fields. You’ll explore issues relevant to contemporary Illustration and Animation culture within an international context. Be equipped with business practice knowledge focussed on small business management and self-employment practices in the art and design industries.

You’ll develop advanced skills related to your specialisation and apply creative processes through collaboration to a variety of projects.

In your second year, you’ll fine-tune your mastery in illustration and animation with a creative research study project. You’ll also complete professional experience with our industry partners, building important network connections.

In your second year of study, you’ll also complete the following courses with a focus on illustration and animation:

Art and design masters project 1
Art and design masters project 2
Art and design masters report
Art and design professional experience
Elective
Elective.

Complete two electives in your final year, broadening your skillset and knowledge in a range of fields and allowing you to customise and align your learning with career aspirations.

Gain knowledge in research methodologies and methods appropriate to a range of creative disciplines. Complete a masters report where you will showcase your ability to integrate theoretical, technological, behavioural, and ethical issues with creative practice. Be equipped to pursue further studies in research, such as a PhD.

Specialisations

The Master of Design is also available with specialisations in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

66 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
12 units for one Specialisation from Specialisations, or
12 units for all Discipline courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
12 units for Electives

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Art and Design Masters Foundation Studio	Course code ARCH5006	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Interdisciplinary Studio	Course code ARCH5013	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Business Practices	Course code ARCH5016	Units 6
Course name Art and Design Research Methods	Course code ARCH6000	Units 6
Course name Art and Design Masters Project 1	Course code ARCH6006	Units 12
Course name Arts and Design Masters Project 2	Course code ARCH6007	Units 12
Course name Art and Design Masters Report	Course code ARCH6008	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Nature, Culture and Sustainability	Course code ARCH5012	Units 6
	Course name Art and Design Advanced Theory	Course code ARCH5018	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Art and Design Professional Experience	Course code ARCH6901	Units 6

Complete 12 units comprising:

12 units from Free electives

Career outcomes

Illustration and Animation is a dynamic and growing field with exciting opportunities for creative professionals.

Transform your artistic vision into a thriving career with the Master of Design specialising in Illustration and Animation. This program equips you with a versatile skill set, preparing you to succeed in the creative industries across a wide range of roles and sectors.

You could animate unforgettable characters for film or television, design captivating storyboards that shape visual narratives, or bring your imagination to life as a concept artist for games or interactive media. Perhaps you’ll create compelling illustrations for publishing or advertising or explore cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality to develop innovative digital experiences.

Careers to consider include:

Animator
Creative director
Concept artist
Illustrator
Storyboard artist
Motion graphics designer
Technical illustrator
Graphic designer
Content creator.

You might also pursue opportunities in industries such as broadcasting and film, visual effects, design agencies, product development, emerging technologies, and independent creative ventures in advertising or publishing.

Industry trends

The projected employment growth in the Australian Information Media and Telecommunications industry is expected to grow nearly 15 per cent in the next 10 years (2024 – 2034) (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Some of the art and creative design jobs most in demand are in interior design, web design, illustration and graphic design (Jobs and Skills Australia).

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: