Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy - exit only (CRICOS course code 063942K) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. This course is designed for graduates seeking to specialise in rehabilitation therapies, focusing on the therapeutic use of art to support mental and emotional wellbeing. As an exit-only qualification, it is typically undertaken after completing a related master's program. Delivered at the Parramatta campus in New South Wales, this course prepares students for professional practice in health and community settings. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is registered on the CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you compare courses and make informed decisions.
This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Rehabilitation Therapies, specifically within Health (06). Students gain advanced knowledge in art therapy theory, clinical practice, and ethical frameworks. The curriculum typically covers assessment and intervention techniques, group facilitation, and research methods relevant to art therapy. Graduates are equipped to work with diverse populations in settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health organisations. While specific syllabi vary, this level of study emphasises the integration of creative processes with therapeutic principles.
The course is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual award, and does not include foundation studies. The course is offered at the Parramatta campus of Western Sydney University, a government-owned institution. As a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8), it requires prior undergraduate study. No work component is included, so students can focus entirely on their studies.
Indicative fees for the Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy - exit only are set by Western Sydney University and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$33,088, with non-tuition fees of A$300, giving an estimated total of A$33,388. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (such as rent, groceries, and transport), or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional expenses: weekly rent in Parramatta averages A$400–550, groceries around A$80–150, and public transport about A$40–60. Always check the provider's website for current fees before applying.
International students must meet English language requirements, typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall. Prior qualifications at bachelor's level or higher are expected, and some institutions require a background in health or creative arts. Foundation or pathway options may be available through the provider or partner colleges. It is essential to verify specific prerequisites with Western Sydney University, as entry criteria can change. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake professional placement as part of the curriculum. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows international students to gain work experience while studying.
The course is delivered at Western Sydney University's Parramatta campus in Parramatta, NSW. Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Western Sydney with a large student population. It offers excellent public transport links via the Western Line train and buses, connecting to Sydney CBD in about 30 minutes. Living costs in Parramatta are generally more affordable than in central Sydney, with a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. The area is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, contributing to a diverse multicultural environment.
To study this course, international students require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration, meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The current cost of living requirement is A$21,041 per year (plus initial establishment costs). Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited work during scheduled course breaks. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest policy.
HeadStart Academy simplifies the application process into three easy steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use our tools to filter by course level, field, and location. Compare Western Sydney University with other Graduate Diploma courses in Health. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and meet application deadlines. Submit your application to Western Sydney University for the Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy - exit only. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, your institution will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for visa advice.
Ready to study? Contact Western Sydney University for application details.
Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy - exit only is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.