Bachelor of Illustration (CRICOS course code 061836F) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 3 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered program, it allows international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. Melbourne Polytechnic, CRICOS 00724G, is a government-funded institution known for its vocational and higher education offerings. Located in Victoria, one of Australia's most popular study destinations with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Melbourne alone, this degree combines creative design skills with practical application. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource—no referral fees, just accurate data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Bachelor of Illustration (CRICOS course code 061836F) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) offered by Melbourne Polytechnic. This course falls under the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501), part of the broader Creative Arts area. It is designed to equip students with advanced skills in visual communication, drawing, digital illustration, and conceptual thinking. Graduates typically pursue careers as illustrators, graphic designers, art directors, or freelance creatives. The program is delivered over 156 weeks (3 years) of full-time study, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation components, and no mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), this course is available exclusively at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus in Fairfield, Victoria.
As a Bachelor Degree in illustration, this program covers a broad range of subjects within graphic arts and design studies. Students typically develop expertise in traditional and digital drawing, narrative illustration, typography, colour theory, and visual storytelling. The curriculum is grounded in both theoretical and practical frameworks, preparing graduates for the creative industries. While exact units are set by Melbourne Polytechnic, the field of education (100501 - Graphic Arts and Design Studies) indicates a focus on design processes, software proficiency, and portfolio development. International students benefit from studying in Victoria's vibrant arts scene, with access to galleries, studios, and industry networks in Melbourne.
This course has a CRICOS-registered duration of 3 years (156 weeks). It is delivered full-time on campus at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus. The language of instruction is English, suitable for international students who meet the English language entry requirements. The program is a single qualification, not part of a dual award or foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes, complete assignments, and build a professional portfolio. For the most current timetable and study mode options, including any online components, contact the provider directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Bachelor of Illustration is A$78,000 for the entire program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. The estimated total cost is A$78,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Melbourne Polytechnic. Please note: fees are subject to change, and international students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,000–A$25,000 per year for a single student in Victoria), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710 for the main applicant). Always verify current fees with Melbourne Polytechnic at their official website: http://www.melbournepolytechnic.edu.au/.
Entry into this Bachelor Degree typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For international students, English proficiency is demonstrated through tests like IELTS (overall band 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Melbourne Polytechnic may also consider prior study in English. Foundation studies or pathway programs might be available for students who do not meet direct entry. Check the provider's website for specific academic prerequisites and any portfolio requirements. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their Student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken is the student's responsibility and must not interfere with course attendance requirements.
Bachelor of Illustration is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus, located in Fairfield, Victoria (VIC). Fairfield is a suburb approximately 8 km north-east of Melbourne's central business district (CBD). The campus is accessible by public transport, including train (Fairfield station on the Hurstbridge line) and bus routes. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it Australia's largest international student city. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$350–A$550 per week for rent, A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$30–A$60 for public transport. For detailed campus facilities, visit Melbourne Polytechnic's website.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Melbourne Polytechnic, evidence of English proficiency, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel expenses, plus a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled holidays. Dependents may have different work rights. All students must maintain OSHC for the duration of their visa. Visa conditions vary—consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personal advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a creative hub with a strong demand for illustrators in publishing, advertising, animation, and design studios. The state hosts numerous festivals and galleries that provide networking opportunities. However, competition can be high, so building a strong portfolio and gaining experience through internships is beneficial. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than in smaller cities like Adelaide or Hobart, but comparable to Sydney. International students enjoy a multicultural environment and excellent public transport. When choosing this course, consider Melbourne Polytechnic's industry connections and alumni success. For alternative options, explore other Bachelor Degree courses in Creative Arts in Victoria via our /study/bachelor-degree/vic page.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Illustration at Melbourne Polytechnic: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm Melbourne Polytechnic (CRICOS 00724G) is listed on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through Melbourne Polytechnic's admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any portfolio if required. Check application deadlines and intake dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, finances, and GTE. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to pursue your Bachelor of Illustration? Check the latest fees and intake dates on Melbourne Polytechnic's website, or explore more Bachelor Degree courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Illustration is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. 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.