Are you considering a career in interior architecture and design? The Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours) (CRICOS course code 085306A) is a four-year Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) offered by Swinburne University of Technology, a government university based in Hawthorn, Victoria. This course combines creative design thinking with technical knowledge to prepare you for professional practice in interior architecture. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00111D), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative total fee of A$180,040, this program offers a comprehensive education in space planning, sustainable design, and human-centred environments. Read on to learn about the curriculum, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways to study interior architecture in Melbourne.
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Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours) (CRICOS course code 085306A) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 4 years. This AQF Level 8 qualification focuses on the field of education 040107 - Interior and Environmental Design, which sits within Architecture and Building. The course is designed to develop your skills in designing interior spaces that are functional, aesthetic, and responsive to human needs. As an honours program, it includes a research component that deepens your understanding of design theory and practice. International students benefit from studying at a university with over 100 years of history and strong industry connections in Melbourne's design sector. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (not a dual award).
The Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours) covers the principles of interior design, spatial planning, building codes, materiality, and sustainable design practices. You'll explore how people interact with interior environments and learn to create spaces that enhance wellbeing and functionality. The curriculum typically includes design studios, history and theory of interior architecture, digital modelling, and professional practice. At honours level, you'll undertake a major research project that demonstrates your ability to critically analyse and propose innovative design solutions. Graduates are prepared for roles such as interior designer, spatial planner, or design consultant, and may pursue further study at master's level. This course equips you with both creative and technical skills valued in the architecture and design industries.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 208 weeks (4 years). It is delivered full-time in English at the Hawthorn campus. There is no foundation studies component, and the course is a single qualification with no dual award. As a Bachelor Honours Degree, it requires a higher level of academic rigour compared to a standard bachelor degree, with a focus on research and independent project work. The study mode is on-campus, providing access to Swinburne's design studios, workshops, and library resources.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$180,040, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$180,040. Please note that this fee is indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and subject to change. You should confirm current fees directly with the institution before applying. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for the Student visa (Subclass 500). As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent and expenses. Always budget for the entire duration of your stay.
To be considered for this course, you typically need to meet academic and English language requirements. The indicative English requirement for this level is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent in other tests like TOEFL or PTE). You should have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent overseas qualification that meets Swinburne's entry standards for bachelor honours degrees. Some prior study in design or related fields may be beneficial. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, Swinburne may offer pathway options such as foundation studies or diplomas. Check the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria. Do not assume your qualifications are automatically recognised — Swinburne assesses applications individually.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some courses offer industry placements or internships, the Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours) as listed on the CRICOS register has no work component. However, students may seek part-time work or internships independently, subject to student visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term).
This course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located on John Street in Hawthorn, Victoria (postcode 3122). Hawthorn is a vibrant suburb just 7 km east of Melbourne's central business district, well-served by trains and trams. Melbourne is home to over 30 universities and colleges offering architecture and design courses, and the city's design industry is thriving. As an international student, you'll have access to Melbourne's cultural precincts, galleries, and design studios. Living in Hawthorn offers a blend of urban convenience and campus life, with accommodation options ranging from student housing to private rentals (typical rent A$200–350 per week for shared accommodation).
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel, and meet health and character criteria. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed guidelines. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All students are protected under the ESOS Act, which ensures quality education and consumer rights.
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. It offers a diverse student population (over 150,000 international students), excellent public transport, and a strong design and architecture scene. If you choose to study interior architecture here, you'll benefit from connections to local design firms, access to major construction projects, and a vibrant arts community. However, consider the cost of living — Melbourne is one of Australia's most expensive cities. Typical weekly expenses: rent A$200–400 (shared), groceries A$80–150, and transport A$50–80. Weigh these against the academic and career opportunities before deciding.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (Honours) at Swinburne University of Technology: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Filter by course level, field, and city on HeadStart Academy to find CRICOS-registered courses like this one. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check Swinburne's entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare your academic documents, and submit an application before the deadline. You may apply online through the university's international admissions portal. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount, providing evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE.
Ready to apply? Visit Swinburne's website for current fees and entry requirements. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other interior architecture courses in Victoria.
Bachelor of Design (Interior Architecture) (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.