Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) (CRICOS course code 071656E) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This program is designed for international students who have completed a Bachelor degree in Visual Arts or a related field and wish to deepen their creative practice and critical thinking. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for quality education and is eligible for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and student visa implications. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you're an aspiring fine artist, curator, or art educator, this Honours year offers a pathway to advanced study or professional practice in Australia's vibrant creative capital, Canberra.
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The Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) is a one-year program that builds on undergraduate studies in visual arts. It is offered by the Australian National University (ANU), a public research university consistently ranked among the world's top 50. The course focuses on developing advanced artistic skills, research methodologies, and a critical understanding of contemporary art practice. Students typically complete a major creative project and a dissertation. As a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8), it provides a pathway to postgraduate research degrees like Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). ANU's School of Art & Design is located in Canberra, Australia's national capital, offering access to national cultural institutions such as the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum, and the Australian War Memorial. This environment enriches the learning experience for international students interested in Australia's cultural heritage and contemporary art scene.
The field of education is 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1003 - Visual Arts and Crafts, with a focus on 100301 - Fine Arts. At the Honours level, students engage in advanced studio practice, art theory, and research. You will develop a portfolio of creative work under the guidance of experienced artists and academics. Core components typically include a major creative project (e.g., exhibition, film, or digital media work) and a research thesis that critically examines your artistic process or a relevant topic in visual arts. Learning outcomes include the ability to conceive and execute a substantial creative project, apply advanced research methods, and communicate ideas effectively through visual and written forms. While specific curricula are set by ANU, this level of study is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the arts sector or further academic study.
The course duration is 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time on campus at Australian National University in Canberra City West, ACT. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). There is no foundation study component or VET national code. International students should note that the standard full-time load for a Student Visa is 40 weeks per year, but this program is structured to be completed within 52 weeks. Students are expected to attend classes, participate in studio sessions, and engage in independent research. The university may offer some flexibility in study mode (e.g., mixed delivery), but this should be confirmed directly with ANU.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$46,680 per year (sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees are approximately A$373, bringing the estimated total to A$47,053. Please note: these fees are indicative and set by ANU, subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always refer to the ANU website. Canberra's cost of living for international students is estimated at around A$1,500–$2,000 per month, covering accommodation (rent for a shared apartment approx. A$250–$400 per week), groceries, transport, and entertainment. The Australian Government requires students to show proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC for the first year.
Applicants must meet ANU's academic and English language requirements. For this Bachelor Honours Degree, you typically need a completed Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in visual arts or a related field with a strong academic record (often a credit average or higher). International students must demonstrate English proficiency: the indicative requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (exact bands vary by ANU policy). Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. If you do not meet direct entry, ANU may offer foundation or pathway programs — check with the university. Always verify entry requirements directly with ANU as they can change.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, 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. This is a general visa condition and applies regardless of course type. Any work must not compromise your study commitments. ANU may also offer optional internships or industry projects, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered program. For details on work opportunities, contact ANU's student services.
This course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the capital city of Australia, known for its national institutions, high living standards, and strong student community. As of April 2026, Canberra has approximately 14 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,200 courses to international students. The city's public transport system (bus and light rail) connects the ANU campus to residential areas and the city centre. Canberra also has a large student population from around the world, offering a safe and multicultural environment. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, but higher than some regional areas. HeadStart Academy provides this location context to help you decide if Canberra is right for your studies.
To study this course, international students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). You must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one) to be eligible. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), English proficiency, and OSHC for the duration of your stay. For this 1-year course, OSHC costs approximately A$500–$700 for a single student. Visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current information. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) at Australian National University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Creative Arts), and location (ACT). Confirm ANU's CRICOS code (00120C) and course code (071656E). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on ANU's website. Submit required documents (academic transcripts, portfolio, statement of purpose). Some courses may require an interview or audition. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ANU issues a CoE, you can apply for the visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC policy. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Canberra offers a unique study experience as Australia's planned capital. It has a lower crime rate and cleaner air compared to larger cities. The city is home to many national attractions, including Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin, and numerous galleries. For visual arts students, Canberra's cultural precinct provides inspiration and networking opportunities. However, some students may find the city quieter than Sydney or Melbourne. The cost of living is moderate: average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–$500 per week, groceries A$80–$120 per week, and a monthly bus pass costs about A$120. HeadStart Academy's advice: consider your lifestyle preferences and budget when choosing a study destination.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses in Creative Arts on HeadStart Academy.
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Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National 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.