Bachelor of Design (Honours)/Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising (CRICOS course code 079005J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 5 years. This dual qualification combines creative design with strategic media and public relations, preparing graduates for dynamic roles in advertising, branding, and communications. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian standards for international students. UNSW, a leading Group of Eight university based in Sydney, offers this integrated program at its Kensington campus. Whether you aspire to be a designer, PR specialist, or media strategist, this degree provides the theoretical foundation and practical experience employers seek. HeadStart Academy helps you understand the details—fees, entry requirements, work component, and visa steps—so you can make an informed decision. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026.
Bachelor of Design (Honours)/Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising (CRICOS course code 079005J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 5 years (260 weeks). Classified under AQF Level 8, this program sits within the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). The dual qualification design means you graduate with both a Bachelor of Design (Honours) and a Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising—two degrees in one. UNSW is a public university (Government) with a strong reputation for research and industry connections. The course is delivered in English and includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UNSW can enrol international students. The CRICOS register—Australia's official database—lists over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses, ensuring quality and compliance with the ESOS Act.
This program covers graphic and design studies combined with public relations and advertising. In the design component, you'll learn visual communication, typography, digital design, and user experience. The media component focuses on strategic communication, media relations, campaign planning, and advertising theory. At the Bachelor Honours level, you'll also undertake research and a major project, developing critical thinking and professional skills. Graduates typically work as graphic designers, PR consultants, advertising account managers, or brand strategists. The field of education (10 - Creative Arts) emphasises creativity and innovation. Note that this is a general description; the specific syllabus is set by UNSW. For detailed curriculum, visit the provider's website.
The course duration is 5 years (260 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. As a dual qualification, you complete two degrees concurrently: Bachelor of Design (Honours) and Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising. This integrated structure allows you to graduate with both qualifications in the same timeframe as a single honours degree, saving time and expanding career options. The honours component adds research depth, often valued for postgraduate study or leadership roles. Study mode is typically on-campus at UNSW Kensington, with some blended learning options. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$248,500 for the full 5-year program (sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services, materials) are estimated at A$5,000, bringing the total to approximately A$253,500. These fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students; for a single student, it can cost around A$600–$800 per year. Living expenses in Sydney average A$1,500–$2,500 per month (rent, groceries, transport). Always confirm current fees with UNSW directly, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this as a guide only.
Entry requirements for Bachelor of Design (Honours)/Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising typically include an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent, with a competitive ATAR. For international students, English proficiency is required: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). You may also need a portfolio for the design component. Foundation studies or pathway programs are available through UNSW Global or other providers—check with UNSW for specific requirements. Note that meeting minimum entry does not guarantee admission; places are limited. Always verify exact criteria on UNSW's website. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and financial capacity.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 23 weeks, 24 hours per week (approximately 552 total hours). This is work-integrated learning (WIL), which may take the form of industry placement, internship, or a project-based experience. WIL is designed to give you real-world skills and professional networks in design, media, or advertising. It is typically completed in the later stages of the program. The provider arranges placements or supports self-sourced opportunities. This practical element enhances your employability and is a hallmark of CRICOS-registered courses with work components. Note that work placements may be subject to host organisation requirements.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Kensington campus, located in Kensington, NSW (suburb of Sydney). Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community. Over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers operate in NSW, offering thousands of courses. The Kensington campus is well-connected by public transport (buses, light rail) and close to the city centre. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: weekly rent for a share house is around A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$150, and a public transport weekly cap A$40–$50. The campus itself has modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: full-time enrolment, maintaining course progress, and attending at least 80% of classes. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled course breaks. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, show financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is issued by UNSW after acceptance. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including refund policies and complaints processes. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general information only.
Kensington and broader Sydney offer a dynamic environment for design and media students. The suburb is near the University of Sydney and thriving creative industries. With over 200,000 international students in NSW, you'll find strong support networks. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Sydney's cost of living is high, but the city offers excellent career opportunities, especially in advertising and digital media. Public transport to UNSW is frequent, and the campus itself is a hub of activity. If you value a bustling urban campus with strong industry ties, Kensington could be ideal. However, if smaller cities appeal, explore other CRICOS-registered providers in different locations. HeadStart Academy can help you compare.
Follow these three steps to study Bachelor of Design (Honours)/Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to verify UNSW's registration (00098G). Ensure the course meets your career goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through UNSW's international admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.0-6.5), and a portfolio if required. Check application deadlines—typically October for February intake and April for July intake. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW offers you a place, accept and pay the deposit to receive your CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement. Always start early to allow time for visa processing (4-8 weeks). For detailed guidance, visit the official UNSW website.
Ready to apply? Visit UNSW's official website for the latest fees, application deadlines, and entry requirements. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
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Bachelor of Design (Honours)/Bachelor of Media in Public Relations and Advertising is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.