Graduate Diploma in Communication (CRICOS course code 0100166) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of communication and media studies. Whether you aim to work in public relations, journalism, or corporate communication, this course provides the theoretical and practical foundation needed. University of South Australia is a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00121B) with a strong reputation in creative arts. As an international student, you'll be protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, meet Australian Government standards. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Remember, fees are indicative and set by the institution.
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Graduate Diploma in Communication (CRICOS course code 0100166) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10) - Communication and Media Studies (100700) at AQF Level 8. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. The language of instruction is English, and there is no mandatory work component. The indicative tuition fee is A$34,100, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$34,100. This amount excludes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges. University of South Australia is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
This Graduate Diploma in Communication covers core areas of communication and media studies. Students typically engage with theories of communication, media production, digital storytelling, and strategic communication. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and practical abilities in crafting messages across various platforms. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider, graduates of similar programs often go on to roles in media planning, content creation, and public relations. The course is delivered at the City West Campus in Adelaide, a vibrant hub for creative industries. Adelaide itself is home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a welcoming city for international students with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
The Graduate Diploma in Communication has a CRICOS duration of 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This full-time program is delivered in English. It is a single qualification, meaning it does not combine with a bachelor's or master's degree. The course is offered on-campus at the University of South Australia's City West Campus. Students are expected to attend classes, participate in workshops, and complete assessments. The standard study load for a graduate diploma is typically 1.5 to 2 years, but this specific course is accelerated. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma in Communication is A$34,100, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$34,100. Please note that these fees are set by University of South Australia (UniSA) and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly on the provider's website (www.unisa.edu.au). Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student as per Department of Home Affairs), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). HeadStart Academy sourced this data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, so compare costs across institutions.
English language proficiency is a key requirement. The CRICOS register indicates an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall for this course. However, individual providers may set higher or equivalent scores (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Additionally, applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Relevant work experience may also be considered. Since this is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8), prior study in a related field is advantageous but not always mandatory. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; consult University of South Australia for details. Always check the provider's official entry requirements, as they can change. For visa purposes, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity covering tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with your study commitments. The course itself does not include an internship or placement, but you may seek volunteer or part-time work independently to gain industry experience. Adelaide has a growing job market in communications and media, with opportunities in marketing agencies, media outlets, and corporate communications departments.
The Graduate Diploma in Communication is delivered at University of South Australia's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its affordable living and vibrant arts scene. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including universities, colleges, and VET institutions. Typical living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. Adelaide's tram and bus network connects the campus to the city centre and suburbs. The address is: City West Campus, North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000.
To study this Graduate Diploma, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (this one), providing evidence of English proficiency, meeting GTE requirements, having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintaining health insurance. As of 2026, student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Family members on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) may accompany you if applicable. After completing your course, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Communication at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that University of South Australia (CRICOS 00121B) meets your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the University of South Australia website (www.unisa.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your journey? Browse more Graduate Diploma courses in South Australia on HeadStart Academy or get in touch with University of South Australia directly.
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Graduate Diploma in Communication is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.