Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) (CRICOS course code 048668D) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 qualification is designed for international students seeking a comprehensive education in journalism within Australia's dynamic media landscape. Delivered at RMIT's Melbourne campus, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in news reporting, digital media, and communications. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00122A), RMIT ensures compliance with the ESOS Act, providing international students with robust legal protections. This course is part of the Creative Arts field (1007 - Communication and Media Studies), specifically Journalism (100703). Melbourne, home to over 150,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offers a vibrant study environment with excellent public transport and a diverse cultural scene.
Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) (CRICOS course code 048668D) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 3 years. This full-time program consists of 156 weeks of study, with instruction in English. As a single qualification, it does not include dual or foundation studies. The course is classified under field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 100703 - Journalism, and is registered at AQF Level 7. RMIT, a government-funded university with CRICOS code 00122A, has been a trusted provider of higher education for decades. The program includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (approximately 120 hours), providing students with real-world industry experience. Indicative tuition fees are A$129,600, with non-tuition fees of A$1,119, bringing the estimated total to A$130,719. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are additional. For the most current fees, please refer to RMIT's official website.
Students in this bachelor's degree explore the principles and practices of journalism, including news writing, investigative reporting, digital storytelling, and media ethics. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 7, emphasizing analytical thinking, research skills, and effective communication. Graduates typically gain competencies in gathering, verifying, and presenting information across multiple platforms. While specific subjects are set by RMIT, the course broadly covers media law, interview techniques, feature writing, and multimedia production. This field of education prepares students for roles in print, broadcast, and online journalism, as well as corporate communications and public relations. With Australia's media industry evolving rapidly, the skills learned are highly transferable. International students benefit from exposure to diverse perspectives and Australian media standards.
The program runs for 3 years, equating to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, with full-time attendance expected. This is a single qualification, meaning no embedded foundation studies or dual award. Students attend classes at RMIT's Melbourne campus, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, and practical workshops. The course is not available online or part-time for international students due to visa conditions requiring full-time study. Melbourne's academic calendar typically includes two semesters per year, with breaks in December-January and June-July. The structured timetable allows students to balance study with part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks).
Indicative tuition fees for the entire program are A$129,600, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,119, totaling an estimated A$130,719. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs approximately A$600-A$1,000 per year depending on the provider and coverage. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at A$2,000-A$2,500 per month, including rent (A$250-A$400 per week), groceries, and transport. The visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$710 (subject to change). RMIT may also charge additional course-related costs such as textbooks and materials. Always confirm current fees with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy recommends comparing fees across multiple CRICOS-registered providers.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5-6.0. Acceptable alternative tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Academic requirements generally include completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent, with competitive grades. Specific prerequisites may apply, such as prior study in English or humanities. Students who do not meet direct entry requirements may consider pathway programs, such as foundation studies or diploma courses offered by RMIT or other providers. It is essential to check RMIT's official website for detailed entry criteria, as requirements can vary by intake. HeadStart Academy advises all applicants to verify eligibility with the institution and consult a registered migration agent for visa-related queries.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 12 weeks, at 10 hours per week, totaling approximately 120 hours. This practical placement typically involves an industry internship or supervised work experience in a media organization. Students gain hands-on experience in newsrooms, production studios, or communications departments, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. The placement is designed to develop professional skills and enhance employability. RMIT coordinates placements with partner organizations, though students may also propose their own. This component aligns with the ESOS Act's requirement for genuine student engagement. Work placements are unpaid, but students can use their standard work rights for additional paid work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term).
The course is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC. This campus is centrally located in Melbourne's CBD, near public transport hubs such as Melbourne Central Station and Flagstaff Station. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city, home to over 5 million people and more than 150,000 international students. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, diverse cuisine, and numerous parks. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$1,800 per month. Over 200 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Melbourne, offering more than 8,000 courses. Students can easily explore other providers at HeadStart Academy's city guides. The campus is well-served by trams, trains, and buses, making commuting convenient.
International students enrolled in this course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrollment, meeting attendance requirements, and holding adequate OSHC. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa holders must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Additionally, adequate financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed guidance. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalized advice. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses offer ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition protection and refund rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) and course code 048668D meet your goals. Check entry requirements, fees, and campus details.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Submit your application through RMIT's online portal. Prepare documents including academic transcripts, English test scores, and a personal statement. Be aware of application deadlines – typically 4-6 months before the semester starts. RMIT may require an interview or portfolio for journalism courses.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once you receive your CoE from RMIT, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa fee, arrange OSHC, and provide evidence of financial capacity. You can then prepare for your journey to Melbourne.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge fees or receive commissions. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
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Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) 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.