Associate Degree in Graphic Design (CRICOS course code 078839G) is a Associate Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 2 years. This program is designed for international students seeking a strong foundation in graphic design principles, combining creative skills with practical industry experience. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy provides this overview using data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Students will develop expertise in visual communication, typography, digital media, and design thinking, preparing them for entry-level roles or further study. The course is delivered at RMIT's Brunswick Campus in Melbourne, a vibrant creative hub. With Australia's ESOS Act protections, international students can study with confidence. This page covers fees, entry requirements, work component, and visa information to help you plan your study journey.
Associate Degree in Graphic 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.
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| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| CRICOS Course Code | 078839G |
| Course Level | Associate Degree (AQF Level 6) |
| Field of Education | 10 - Creative Arts → 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies → 100501 - Graphic Arts and Design Studies |
| Provider | Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00122A, Government) |
| Duration | 2 years (104 weeks) |
| Language | English |
| Dual Qualification | No |
| Foundation Studies | No |
| Work Component | Yes – 16 weeks, 5 hrs/week (~80 total hours) |
| Indicative Tuition | A$74,880 |
| Non-Tuition Fees | A$1,746 |
| Estimated Total | A$76,626 |
| Delivery Location | Brunswick Campus, 25 Dawson Street, Brunswick, VIC |
Associate Degree in Graphic Design (CRICOS course code 078839G) is a 2-year (104 weeks) Associate Degree (AQF Level 6) offered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00122A), a government-funded university in Melbourne, Victoria. The course falls under the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501) within Creative Arts (10). It is a single qualification with no dual award, and does not include foundation studies. The language of instruction is English. This course includes a mandatory work component of 16 weeks at 5 hours per week (approximately 80 total hours), providing students with real-world industry experience through placements or projects. Graphic design at this level equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in areas such as branding, layout, digital imaging, and user experience. Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, visual artists, or multimedia specialists, or progress to a Bachelor of Graphic Design. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology is one of Australia's leading universities for design, consistently ranked among the top globally for art and design. The Brunswick Campus, located at 25 Dawson Street, is a creative precinct housing state-of-the-art studios and workshops.
This Associate Degree covers the core principles of graphic design within the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies. Students typically learn visual communication theories, typography, colour theory, digital illustration, layout design, branding, and user-centred design. The curriculum blends creative exploration with technical proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, critical thinking, and professional practice. Students undertake projects that simulate real client briefs, building a portfolio to showcase their skills. The course may include subjects like design history, motion graphics, web design, and print production. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of visual language and the ability to create compelling designs for print and digital media. Please note that this is a general description; for the exact syllabus, refer to Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
The Associate Degree in Graphic Design runs for 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification (not dual) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes, workshops, and studio sessions at the Brunswick Campus. The structure typically includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, and practical lab work. Study mode is on-campus, face-to-face, as per CRICOS requirements for international students. The course is designed to be completed within the standard duration, though individual progress may vary. Always confirm the exact delivery schedule with Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
The indicative fees for Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are:
Please note: These figures are indicative only and subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always refer to the official Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology website. Living costs in Melbourne typically range from A$30,000 to A$40,000 per year, depending on lifestyle. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for rent (approx. A$200–A$400 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80–A$120 per week), and public transport (concession rates apply for students).
Entry requirements for Associate Degree in Graphic Design vary by provider. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology typically expects international students to have completed Year 12 or equivalent (Australian high school) with satisfactory results. For this Associate Degree level, a strong academic record in relevant subjects (e.g., art, design, or English) may be beneficial. English language proficiency is required: most providers require IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent), depending on the course level. For this program, an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5) is common. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. If you do not meet the English requirement, some providers offer English language pathways. Foundation studies are not included in this course, but RMIT may offer bridging programs. Always check the specific entry requirements on Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology's website before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 16 weeks of work-integrated learning at 5 hours per week (approximately 80 total hours). This may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or project-based work with real clients. The goal is to provide students with practical experience in a professional graphic design environment, enhancing employability. Work placements are typically arranged by the institution in collaboration with industry partners. This component is a CRICOS-registered requirement and is integral to the course structure. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for any off-campus work; see the Student Visa section for details.
The Associate Degree in Graphic Design is delivered at:
Brunswick is a vibrant inner-northern suburb of Melbourne, known for its creative culture, cafes, and street art. The campus is well-connected by public transport (trams and trains) to Melbourne's city centre. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The city offers a high quality of life with diverse cultural events, affordable housing options, and excellent student support services. Studying in Melbourne means access to Australia's leading design industry.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements:
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. It offers a thriving arts scene, diverse food culture, and excellent public transport. For graphic design students, Melbourne hosts numerous design agencies, startups, and creative hubs, providing ample networking and job opportunities. The city has a large international student population (over 200,000), with dedicated support services. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney; average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is around A$450-$550 per week, while shared accommodation can be cheaper. Consider your budget, climate preferences, and lifestyle when choosing Melbourne. HeadStart Academy provides resources to help you decide.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
Need help? HeadStart Academy offers free guides and resources, but we do not provide migration advice. For visa questions, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy or visit RMIT's website for detailed entry requirements and intake dates.
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