Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (CRICOS course code 023813F) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 3 years 1 month (~159 weeks). This program equips students with the creative and technical skills needed for a career in graphic design, branding, and digital media. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00121B), it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. UniSA is a public university based in Adelaide, South Australia, offering a vibrant campus life and strong industry connections. This page provides essential information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and visa guidance for prospective international students. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026.
Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (CRICOS course code 023813F) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in Graphic and Design Studies (Field of Education 100501). It is offered by University of South Australia (UniSA), a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 00121B. The course spans 159 weeks (3 years 1 month) and is taught in English. No dual qualification or foundation studies are included. The program does not have a mandatory work component, though students may benefit from optional internships. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this degree is one of many design programs available to international students. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, ensuring you have accurate data to make informed decisions.
This program focuses on Graphic and Design Studies (Field of Education 100501), covering areas such as typography, visual communication, branding, user experience design, and digital media. Students develop a portfolio of creative work, learning to solve visual problems across print, screen, and interactive platforms. The curriculum typically includes design theory, studio practice, and professional communication skills. As a Bachelor Degree, it prepares graduates for roles in advertising agencies, design studios, media companies, and freelance creative practice. While the exact syllabus is set by UniSA, the broad field of education encompasses both traditional graphic design and contemporary communication design practices.
The course duration is 3 years 1 month (159 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. Students study a single qualification (Bachelor of Design) with no combined or dual awards. The program is not VET-accredited and does not include a foundation year. UniSA offers this degree on a standard semester basis, with options for accelerated study potentially available through the provider. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) are indicatively A$98,400 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as materials, software, and field trips. The estimated total is A$98,400, but this excludes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For context, weekly living costs in Adelaide are approximately A$350–A$500 for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with University of South Australia (UniSA) at www.unisa.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test). Applicants should have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or a recognised foundation program. Specific prerequisite subjects may be required in art, design, or mathematics. Scholarship or pathway options may be available, including foundation courses at UniSA College. Always check the provider's website for precise entry requirements, as these can vary by intake and are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not set entry criteria; we provide general guidance based on the CRICOS register and common industry benchmarks.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, optional internships, industry projects, or work-integrated learning opportunities may be available through the provider. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work can provide valuable industry experience, but it cannot replace the academic requirements of the program.
Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) is delivered at University of South Australia, City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a capital city with a strong design and arts community, home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses in creative arts. The campus is accessible by public transport, with tram and bus stops nearby. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around A$350–A$450 for a one-bedroom apartment. The city has a growing international student population of approximately 40,000, providing a multicultural and supportive environment.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: evidence of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects international students' rights. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Adelaide offers a thriving creative sector with numerous design studios, advertising agencies, and digital firms. The city hosts annual events like the Adelaide Design Festival and the South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival. Studying at UniSA places you in the heart of Adelaide's cultural precinct, with access to galleries, museums, and networking events. The lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne makes it attractive for international students. With 26,433 CRICOS courses across Australia, Adelaide provides a focused design education environment with strong industry ties. Consider your personal preferences for city size, climate, and career opportunities when choosing where to study.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use resources like HeadStart Academy to compare courses in Graphic and Design Studies. Filter by level (Bachelor Degree), field, and location (Adelaide). 2. Apply directly to University of South Australia (UniSA): Check entry requirements, submit your application with academic transcripts and English test results, and meet application deadlines. UniSA may have semesters starting in February and July. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and evidence of funds. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not process applications or provide migration advice.
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Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) 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.