Are you a design graduate looking to advance your skills with an honours degree in Australia? The Bachelor of Design (Honours) (CRICOS 079150M) at Swinburne University of Technology offers a one-year pathway to deepen your expertise. This page provides essential information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and the student visa process. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and presented by HeadStart Academy, a free resource for international students. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ CRICOS-registered providers, and every institution listed here is government-approved. As a HeadStart Academy user, you can trust that the information is accurate and unbiased — we do not charge referral fees or commissions. The Bachelor of Design (Honours) is a popular choice for international students seeking a competitive edge in the creative arts industry. Read on to find out if this course fits your study plans.
Bachelor of Design (Honours) (CRICOS course code 079150M) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. The provider, Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D), is a government-funded university based in Hawthorn, Victoria. The course is classified under the field of Creative Arts (10), specifically Other Creative Arts (109999), and is an AQF Level 8 qualification. It is a single award with no dual qualification or foundation component. The language of instruction is English, and there is no mandatory work component. The indicative total fee is A$39,000. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act.
This honours program focuses on advanced creative arts, encompassing design research, critical analysis, and a substantial project. Students will develop skills in design thinking, project management, and scholarly writing. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for senior roles in design or further postgraduate study. At this level, you will engage with contemporary design theories, methodologies, and professional practice. The course encourages independent research and creative problem-solving, culminating in a major design project or thesis. Graduates emerge with a deeper understanding of the design field and are equipped for leadership positions in industries such as graphic design, UX design, product design, and design management.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Study is full-time and delivered in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree or combined with foundation studies. No part-time study option is available for international students on a student visa, as full-time enrolment is a visa condition.
According to the CRICOS register, the indicative tuition fee is A$39,000. No additional non-tuition fees are charged by the institution. The estimated total cost is therefore A$39,000. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC typically costs A$600–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$500–A$700 per week. The current student visa application charge is A$650. Always check the provider’s website for the most current fees: https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English language tests such as TOEFL or PTE Academic may also be accepted. Prior qualifications: applicants should hold a bachelor degree in design or a related field. Foundation or pathway options may be available – refer to Swinburne’s website for specific articulation agreements and advanced standing. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the final decision rests with the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students may choose to undertake voluntary work or internships separately, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Hawthorn Campus, John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria’s capital. Melbourne is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population of more than 200,000. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Hawthorn is well-served by public transport, including trains and trams to the city centre. The campus offers state-of-the-art design facilities and studios.
Victoria is a hub for creative arts, home to galleries, design studios, and a vibrant student community. With over 200,000 international students, Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities. The cost of living is moderate, with weekly expenses around A$500–A$700 (excluding tuition). Public transport is extensive, and student discounts are available. Hawthorn Campus is close to the city, giving you access to Melbourne's design industry. Consider your career goals: Victoria has strong job prospects in design, particularly in digital and UX design. The state also hosts major design events and exhibitions throughout the year.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for a visa. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies to all student visa applications. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Ready to enrol? Follow these steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. The Bachelor of Design (Honours) is offered only at Swinburne University of Technology. 2. Apply directly to Swinburne – meet the entry requirements, provide English test results, and submit your application before the deadline. International students should check specific application rounds and supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you accept your offer, Swinburne will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Apply early to allow processing time.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your study options with HeadStart Academy – your free guide to studying in Australia. Browse more courses or contact us for personalised assistance.
Bachelor of 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.