Bachelor of Arts (Photography) (CRICOS course code 006593K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 3 years. This qualification is registered at AQF Level 7 and falls under the field of Photography (100303), within the Creative Arts discipline. RMIT, a government university with CRICOS code 00122A, offers this program at its Melbourne campus at 124 Latrobe Street. As an international student, you will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in photographic practices, theory, and professional contexts. This page provides an overview of course structure, indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa information to help you plan your study in Australia.
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Bachelor of Arts (Photography) (CRICOS course code 006593K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 3 years. As an AQF Level 7 qualification, it prepares graduates for professional roles in the creative industries, with a focus on photography as an art form and commercial practice. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring that international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. RMIT is one of Australia’s leading universities for art and design, and this degree reflects its commitment to industry-relevant education. Students will develop technical proficiency, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills through a combination of studio work, theory, and projects.
This Photography degree (Field of Education 100303) covers the principles and techniques of photographic capture, editing, and presentation. Students explore visual literacy, digital imaging, lighting, and composition, as well as the historical and contemporary contexts of photography. Graduates typically develop a portfolio of work demonstrating their ability to produce professional-quality images across various genres, including portraiture, documentary, commercial, and fine art photography. The curriculum integrates practical studio sessions with theoretical study, encouraging experimentation and personal expression. While specific subjects may vary, the course aims to equip students with the skills needed to pursue careers as photographers, image makers, or creative practitioners in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Bachelor of Arts (Photography) has a duration of 3 years, which equates to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include a foundation studies component. The course is delivered face-to-face at RMIT’s Melbourne campus. Students are expected to engage in full-time study, attending classes, workshops, and studio sessions. As a full-time course, it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which mandates that international students maintain full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Arts (Photography) is A$132,480 for the full 3-year program. This figure is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. In addition, non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,119, bringing the estimated total to A$133,599. Please note that these fees are indicative only and are set by the institution. You must confirm current fees directly with RMIT by visiting www.rmit.edu.au. The following costs are not included in the above amounts: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For a single international student, OSHC is approximately A$600–A$800 per year, and living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$25,000–A$30,000 per year (including rent, groceries, and transport). These figures are a guide only.
International students must meet both academic and English language requirements to gain admission to the Bachelor of Arts (Photography). The general English requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent in other accepted tests like TOEFL or PTE). Academic requirements typically include completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some applicants may also be required to submit a portfolio or attend an interview, as is common in creative arts degrees. For specific entry requirements, consult RMIT’s website. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry criteria; contact RMIT for options. Always check with the provider, as entry requirements can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no requirement for students to undertake industry placement, internships, or work experience as part of the degree. However, students may choose to seek voluntary or paid work opportunities independently, subject to visa conditions. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This can provide valuable practical experience and help offset living costs.
The Bachelor of Arts (Photography) is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a vibrant cultural hub, home to over 200,000 international students. The campus is centrally located, with excellent access to public transport including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne’s creative arts scene is thriving, with numerous galleries, studios, and photography collectives offering networking and inspiration. The city has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$350, groceries about A$80–A$120, and a monthly public transport pass around A$150–A$200.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Arts (Photography) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare RMIT with other providers offering photography degrees in Melbourne. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit RMIT’s website (www.rmit.edu.au) to review entry requirements, submit an application, and provide evidence of English proficiency and academic qualifications. Check application deadlines and portfolio requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once RMIT issues your CoE, lodge a visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Seek assistance from a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to apply? Visit RMIT’s website to start your application or explore more photography courses on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Bachelor of Arts (Photography) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.