Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (Honours) (CRICOS course code 079130D) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 4 years. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this program ensures international students receive quality education. Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is a government-funded provider offering this course at its Hawthorn Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it provides advanced skills in communication design, preparing graduates for leadership roles. International students can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. Melbourne hosts many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a dynamic study environment. The indicative tuition fee is A$171,560, excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa fees. HeadStart Academy provides this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) as a free resource.
This Bachelor Honours Degree focuses on the field of Communication and Media Studies (broadly within Creative Arts). Students typically develop advanced theoretical and practical skills in communication design, including visual communication, typography, digital media, branding, and user experience. Honours-level study involves a research component, enabling graduates to pursue careers in design leadership, creative direction, or further academic research. Swinburne's program is structured to build on undergraduate knowledge, offering specialised coursework and a major project. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional communication skills highly valued in the creative industries.
The course is scheduled for 4 years (208 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards or foundation studies). Swinburne offers this program on a full-time basis, typically requiring students to attend on-campus classes and workshops. The standard study load for international students is 40 weeks per year, with breaks aligned to the academic calendar. As a non-VET course, it does not have a VET national code.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$171,560, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register (A$0). This brings the estimated total to A$171,560. However, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). International students should budget for these additional costs. For the most current fee information, always visit Swinburne's official website at swinburne.edu.au/international. Fees are subject to change and are set by the institution.
Entry into this Bachelor Honours Degree typically requires completion of a relevant bachelor's degree (e.g., Bachelor of Design or equivalent) with a strong academic record. International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0) or an equivalent approved test. Prior qualifications should align with the field of communication design. Swinburne may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – refer to the provider for specific options. Note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the university assesses each application individually.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no compulsory internship or placement. However, students may choose to undertake voluntary work or seek part-time employment during their studies, subject to visa conditions. 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 breaks.
The course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 5 km from the city centre. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 400,000 across multiple universities. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses, making it accessible from across Melbourne. The area offers a range of student accommodation, cafes, and cultural venues.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include: maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the stay, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Upon graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) depending on their qualifications. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. All students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (Honours) at Swinburne University of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses and providers. Confirm that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) and course 079130D meet your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Swinburne's international website to review entry requirements, English language tests, application deadlines, and submit your application. Supporting documents include transcripts, English test results, and a portfolio (if required).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once Swinburne accepts your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine intention to study.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong arts and culture scene. It hosts over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of design courses. The city's creative industry includes advertising agencies, design studios, and digital media companies, providing networking and career opportunities for graduates. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–$400, groceries around A$80–$150, and public transport (myki pass) about A$45 per week. Students can access a 50% concession discount. The city has excellent tram, train, and bus networks connecting campuses to the CBD.
Ready to apply? Visit Swinburne University of Technology's international website to begin your application for Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (Honours).
Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University 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.