Diploma of Communication (Standard) (CRICOS course code 080601A) is a Diploma delivered by UTS College Limited over 1 year, providing international students with a solid foundation in communication and media studies. This qualification is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards and qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). UTS College Limited (CRICOS 00859D) is a private institution based in Sydney, New South Wales – a vibrant global city home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and tens of thousands of international students. Studying communication in Sydney offers exposure to Australia’s dynamic media industry, with opportunities to network and gain practical insights. The course is designed for students seeking to develop professional communication skills for roles in public relations, journalism, advertising, or digital media. With a tuition fee of A$39,000 for the full year, this diploma provides a cost-effective pathway to further study at university. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource – all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change.
Diploma of Communication (Standard) is a full-time Diploma qualification (AQF Level 5) in the field of Communication and Media Studies (broad field: Creative Arts). As a CRICOS-registered course (080601A) delivered by UTS College Limited, it is designed for international students who wish to build a strong academic foundation for higher education in Australia. The course covers core areas such as media theory, communication strategies, digital content creation, and professional writing. Graduates often progress to the second year of a bachelor's degree in related disciplines. UTS College is located in Sydney's city centre, giving students direct access to the UTS campus and its facilities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this diploma is one of many open to international students. The ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered institutions, ensuring quality and financial safeguards.
Communication and Media Studies encompasses a range of skills essential for modern media and business environments. At the Diploma level, students typically learn to analyse media content, develop effective communication campaigns, understand audience behaviour, and produce written and digital materials for various platforms. The curriculum often includes modules on interpersonal communication, public relations, journalism fundamentals, media ethics, and digital media production. While specific subjects are set by UTS College Limited, graduates of a diploma in this field should be able to apply communication theories to real-world scenarios, work collaboratively in teams, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity – all key attributes for roles in marketing, corporate communications, and content creation. This qualification also serves as a stepping stone to bachelor's degrees in Communication or Media Studies.
The Diploma of Communication (Standard) has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is conducted in English, and students are expected to have sufficient English proficiency to succeed. Classes are typically full-time, and the program leads to a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component. The study mode is on-campus, with delivery at two locations in Sydney: Haymarket Campus and UTS Building CB05. Students should plan for a full-time study commitment, which may include lectures, tutorials, and independent study. The course structure is designed to ensure international students meet visa requirements for satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$39,000 for the full 52-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–$800 per year. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; students should budget around A$2,000–$3,000 per month for accommodation, food, transport, and leisure. For the most current fees and any potential additional charges, always check directly with UTS College Limited via their website at www.utscollege.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change.
Entry to the Diploma of Communication (Standard) requires an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and successful completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) in the student’s home country. Some applicants may need to complete a foundation program if they do not meet academic prerequisites. UTS College Limited may also consider previous study or work experience for mature-age students. As this is a pathway to higher education, strong academic records and English proficiency are important. It is recommended to contact the provider directly for precise entry criteria. International students should ensure they understand the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa application.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work should not interfere with study commitments. Engaging in part-time work can help offset living costs and provide valuable experience, but students should prioritise their academic progress.
The Diploma of Communication (Standard) is delivered at two locations in Sydney, both in the Haymarket/Ultimo area adjacent to the University of Technology Sydney (UTS): Haymarket Campus (Broadway, NSW) and UTS Building CB05 (Haymarket, NSW). These campuses are well-connected by public transport, with Central Station and multiple bus routes nearby. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to a diverse student population of over 200,000 international students. The city offers a high standard of living, but costs can be high. Students should consider accommodation options near campus to reduce travel time and expenses.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study at a CRICOS-registered institution and includes work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UTS College Limited, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) assessment, and evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year as of 2026), and travel. All student visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Communication (Standard) at UTS College Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Communication and Media Studies), and location (Sydney). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (UTS College is CRICOS 00859D). 2. Apply directly to UTS College Limited – Check the entry requirements (IELTS, academic qualifications) and submit your application through the provider's website. Deadlines vary, so apply well in advance. UTS College may require transcripts, English test scores, and a personal statement. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, UTS College will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Sydney is a hub for media and communications, hosting major companies, agencies, and startups. Studying here provides networking opportunities and potential internships. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia – budget around A$500–$800 per week for rent in shared accommodation, plus groceries ($150–$200) and transport ($50–$80). The city's public transport is extensive, but travel time from suburbs can add to daily expenses. UTS College Limited is a well-established pathway provider, with strong links to UTS. Its small class sizes and support services are suited for international students adjusting to Australian education. Consider your career goals: this diploma is ideal if you aim to enter the media industry or progress to a bachelor's degree. Also, check the provider's course progression options and credit transfer opportunities.
Ready to start your study journey? Explore more courses or contact UTS College Limited directly for application details.
Diploma of Communication (Standard) is a CRICOS-registered programme at UTS College Limited. 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.