Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking (CRICOS course code 088908F) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 29 weeks (~7 months). This course is designed for international students seeking advanced skills in visual effects, focusing on compositing and tracking techniques used in film and television production. Located in Adelaide, South Australia, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical training at industry-standard facilities, including Rising Sun Pictures. As a CRICOS-registered course (088908F), it meets Australian government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. With an indicative tuition fee of A$15,300 and no mandatory work component, this graduate certificate offers a focused pathway into the creative arts industry. Adelaide, home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, provides a vibrant and affordable study environment with living costs lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Prospective students should note that fees are indicative and subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking (CRICOS course code 088908F) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 29 weeks (~7 months). This course falls under the field of education ‘10 - Creative Arts’, specifically ‘1007 - Communication and Media Studies’, and is designed to equip students with advanced skills in digital compositing and tracking for visual effects (VFX). UniSA is a public, government-funded university (CRICOS 00121B) with a strong reputation in creative industries. The program is delivered at two Adelaide locations: Rising Sun Pictures and the City East Campus. As a CRICOS-registered course, it assures international students of quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$15,300, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. This course is a single qualification with no work component, focusing entirely on academic and practical training.
The Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking focuses on the technical and creative aspects of visual effects production. Students typically learn advanced compositing techniques using industry-standard software, such as Nuke, and study tracking methods including 2D and 3D tracking, matchmoving, and camera solving. The curriculum covers digital image creation, colour grading, and integration of live-action footage with computer-generated imagery (CGI). While specific syllabus details vary, graduates are expected to develop proficiency in visual storytelling, problem-solving, and pipeline workflows relevant to film, television, and streaming media. This level of study (Australian Qualifications Framework Level 8) assumes a prior bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, and builds upon foundational knowledge in related fields. Adelaide's growing creative sector offers opportunities for practical exposure, with local studios and post-production houses contributing to Australia's VFX industry. The course prepares students for roles such as compositor, tracking artist, or visual effects artist in a competitive global market.
This course is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 29 weeks, approximately 7 months. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Study mode is typically full-time, on-campus, though students should confirm specific delivery arrangements with University of South Australia (UniSA). There is no mandatory work component, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies. The program is designed to be intensive, providing a fast-track pathway to specialised skills in compositing and tracking. International students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and adhere to attendance requirements. The City East Campus and Rising Sun Pictures facilities in Adelaide offer modern learning environments with access to industry equipment and software.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$15,300, as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, but this may not include all incidental costs. The estimated total fee is A$15,300, but this is subject to change by the provider. Importantly, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For example, living costs in Adelaide are approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, according to current estimates. Students should budget an additional A$20,000–25,000 per year for living expenses. Always verify current fees with University of South Australia (UniSA) at www.unisa.edu.au before applying. The fees shown are indicative and sourced from the official CRICOS register; they are not guaranteed.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8), universities generally expect a higher band, such as IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, or equivalent. Additionally, applicants usually need a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a related field (e.g., visual arts, animation, film, or computer science). Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Since this is not a foundation course, pathway options are limited; however, students with lower English proficiency may be offered packaged pathways through ELICOS programs. University of South Australia (UniSA) sets its own entry requirements, so prospective students should check the provider's website for precise details. It is also recommended to confirm that your prior qualifications are assessed as equivalent by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. While not required, students may seek part-time employment in Adelaide's creative industries to gain practical experience. The absence of a work component means the program is structured entirely around coursework and practical training, allowing for a focused learning experience. Students should balance any work with their study commitments to maintain visa compliance.
This course is delivered at two locations in Adelaide, South Australia: Rising Sun Pictures, at 180-200 Pulteney Street and 190 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000; and University of South Australia, City East Campus. Both are situated in Adelaide's central business district, providing easy access via public transport (buses, trams, and trains). Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of around 1.4 million and over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses to international students. The city is known for its affordable living costs, vibrant arts scene, and festivals. The South Australian government has invested in creative industries, making it an attractive destination for VFX and media studies. Students at these locations benefit from proximity to Adelaide's post-production studios and cultural institutions.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows full-time study in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and health insurance (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. Visa conditions also require maintaining enrolment, attending classes, and notifying the provider of address changes. Australia's ESOS Act provides consumer protection for international students, including tuition assurance and complaint processes. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by Graduate Certificate, Creative Arts, and Adelaide. Confirm that University of South Australia (UniSA) (CRICOS 00121B) offers this course and meets your interests.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements (English language proficiency, academic qualifications) and prepare documents. Submit your application through UniSA's online portal before the deadline. You may need to provide transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and a statement of purpose.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, UniSA issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and commence studies.
To apply, visit the University of South Australia website (www.unisa.edu.au) for current fees, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
View the full University of South Australia (UniSA) profile →
Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of South Australia (UniSA). 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.