Associate Degree in Interior Decoration and Design (CRICOS course code 078836M) is an Associate Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 2 years. This course, registered on the official CRICOS register, offers international students a pathway into the creative field of interior and environmental design. Located at RMIT's Melbourne campus, the program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for roles in residential and commercial interior decoration. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. At HeadStart Academy, we source all provider and course data directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, providing you with trustworthy, up-to-date information to plan your study in Australia.
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This Associate Degree falls under the field of Architecture and Building (04), specifically Interior and Environmental Design (040107). Students explore design principles, colour theory, spatial planning, and material selection for interior spaces. The curriculum typically includes 2D and 3D design, digital presentation techniques, and project management skills relevant to the interior decoration industry. Graduates gain a strong foundation in design history, sustainability, and professional practice. While course structures vary, this level (AQF Level 6) equips students with specialised knowledge and creative problem-solving abilities necessary to pursue careers in interior styling, design consultancy, or further study in a Bachelor degree. RMIT is renowned for its industry connections and practical approach, ensuring students build a portfolio that meets employer expectations.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) of full-time study, conducted entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual degree or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at RMIT's Melbourne location. The study load is consistent with a standard international student visa requirement of at least 20 hours per week of scheduled contact. There is no mandatory work component integrated into the course, allowing flexibility for students to seek part-time work within visa conditions. Melbourne, home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, offers a vibrant student community with excellent public transport, making campus accessible from suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and the CBD.
Indicative tuition fees for this course are A$74,880, with non-tuition fees of A$1,028, bringing the estimated total to A$75,908. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$450–700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. We recommend checking the official RMIT website for the most current fee schedule. All providers listed at HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring fee transparency and compliance with Australian Government standards.
English language proficiency requirements vary by provider but typically range from IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. For an Associate Degree, most institutions expect an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. Academic entrance requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet direct entry criteria. RMIT may also consider prior study or work experience. Always confirm specific prerequisites directly with the university. For visa purposes, your English test results must be no more than two years old. Consult the provider's website or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain local experience and offset living costs. Melbourne's economy offers diverse job opportunities in retail, hospitality, and administration. For work-integrated learning or internships, students can explore voluntary options through RMIT's career services.
The Associate Degree in Interior Decoration and Design is delivered at RMIT University - 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a population of over 5 million, including a vibrant international student community of over 200,000. The campus is in the heart of the CBD, with access to trams, trains, and buses. Nearby student hubs include Carlton (restaurants), Fitzroy (arts), and Southbank (cultural precinct). Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a moderate climate and rich multicultural atmosphere.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Upon course completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps for the Associate Degree in Interior Decoration and Design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) is registered to offer this course. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit RMIT's website to check entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and application deadlines. Prepare academic transcripts and a portfolio if required. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your interior design journey? Explore more courses or contact RMIT directly through their website. For visa and study advice, browse our visa guides at HeadStart Academy.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Associate Degree in Interior Decoration and Design 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.