Diploma in Visual Arts and Design (CRICOS course code 052327B) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification immerses students in the creative arts field—specifically Visual Arts and Crafts—preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in the arts sector. ACU, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00004G), offers this course across three campuses: Brisbane (Banyo, QLD), Melbourne (Fitzroy, VIC), and Sydney (Strathfield, NSW). With Australia home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, studying visual arts here places you in a vibrant, multicultural environment. The course is taught in English and carries no mandatory work component, allowing full focus on studio practice, theory, and portfolio development. Whether you aim to become an artist, designer, or creative professional, this diploma provides a solid foundation. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
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Diploma in Visual Arts and Design (CRICOS course code 052327B) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. Classified under Field of Education 100300 – Visual Arts and Crafts (n.f.d.), this program introduces students to core visual arts principles, including drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, and design theory. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. ACU, with its strong reputation in the creative arts, provides access to studios, galleries, and experienced faculty. Graduates may progress to bachelor's degrees or pursue careers in art practice, graphic design, or community arts. The indicative fee structure below outlines the investment required, though always confirm with the provider for current rates.
This Diploma in Visual Arts and Design covers the fundamental and intermediate skills needed in visual arts and design. Students typically explore a range of media and techniques, from traditional drawing and painting to digital design and mixed media. The curriculum emphasizes conceptual development, visual literacy, and critical thinking, preparing graduates to communicate ideas effectively through visual forms. While specific subjects are determined by Australian Catholic University, common areas include colour theory, composition, art history, and portfolio development. The course is structured to build both technical proficiency and creative confidence, aligning with industry expectations for entry-level roles in the creative sector. International students gain exposure to Australia's diverse art scene, with opportunities to visit galleries and participate in local exhibitions. This hands-on approach ensures that by the end of the program, you'll have a body of work suitable for further study or employment.
The Diploma in Visual Arts and Design is a one-year program lasting 52 weeks as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study components). Full-time study is expected, with classes conducted on-campus at one of ACU's three delivery locations. The course does not include any mandatory work component, allowing you to focus entirely on studio-based learning and assessment. If you require additional English language support, ACU may offer pathway options—check with the provider for details. The structured timeline of 52 weeks is designed to provide an intensive yet manageable immersion into visual arts, culminating in a diploma that can articulate into higher-level courses or directly into the workforce.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for Diploma in Visual Arts and Design is A$35,624, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$35,624. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. For example, weekly rent in Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney ranges from A$200–$400, and OSHC costs approximately A$500–$600 per year. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Australian Catholic University at www.acu.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. This indicative data is sourced from the official CRICOS register and is provided as a guide only.
International students applying for this Diploma typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent English test result). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 are generally expected, though ACU may consider relevant work experience or foundation studies. Some applicants might need to submit a portfolio or attend an interview. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, ACU offers pathway programs such as English language courses or foundation year options—contact the university for specific bridging pathways. As always, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the final decision rests with the institution. For visa purposes, you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and maintain OSHC. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. As a full-time 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 allows you to gain part-time work experience in Australia while studying visual arts. However, the curriculum itself focuses solely on academic and practical studio work, with no internship or placement requirements. If you seek work-integrated learning, consider electives or extracurricular opportunities offered by ACU's career services.
Australian Catholic University offers this Diploma at three campuses: Brisbane Campus (Banyo, QLD), Melbourne Campus (Fitzroy, VIC), and Strathfield Campus (Strathfield, NSW). Each location provides a unique urban study experience. Brisbane, with over 100,000 international students, offers a subtropical climate and lower living costs (weekly rent ~A$250–$350). Melbourne, home to more than 200,000 international students, is a cultural hub with higher living costs (rent ~A$300–$450). Sydney, also with over 200,000 international students, boasts world-renowned arts institutions but higher expenses (rent ~A$350–$500). All campuses are accessible by public transport, with dedicated on-site studios and galleries. When choosing a location, consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and connection to local art communities. Each campus is CRICOS-registered for this course, so you can be confident in the quality of education.
To study Diploma in Visual Arts and Design at Australian Catholic University, you must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and part-time work (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). You'll need to provide evidence of genuine temporary stay (GTE), sufficient financial capacity, and adequate health insurance (OSHC). The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent—for detailed visa guidance, consult MARA-registered agents or the Department of Home Affairs. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights.
Follow these steps specifically for Diploma in Visual Arts and Design at Australian Catholic University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm ACU's registration (00004G) and the course code (052327B). Compare entry requirements, fees, and campus locations. HeadStart Academy's free resources can help you filter by course level and field.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Australian Catholic University via their online portal. Ensure you meet the English language requirement (IELTS 5.5–6.0) and academic prerequisites. Check application deadlines—ACU typically has multiple intake periods. You may need to provide certified transcripts, a portfolio, and a personal statement.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ACU issues your CoE, use it to lodge your visa application online. Prepare documents: passport, proof of funds (tuition + living costs), OSHC policy, and GTE statement. Apply well in advance to allow processing time.
Ready to start your creative journey? Visit Australian Catholic University's website to apply for the Diploma in Visual Arts and Design.
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Diploma in Visual Arts and Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.