Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink) (Extended) (CRICOS course code 089745A) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking a pathway into communication and media studies at one of Australia's leading universities. The program focuses on foundational skills in arts and communication, providing a stepping stone to further study or entry into the creative industries. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, Swinburne stands out for its strong industry connections and modern campus in Melbourne's vibrant Hawthorn suburb. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00111D), Swinburne is subject to the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and legal protections.
Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink) (Extended) (CRICOS 089745A) is a one-year program that falls under the field of Communication and Media Studies. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course is delivered in English and does not include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government university, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. Swinburne University of Technology has a strong reputation in creative arts and media, with campuses in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
This diploma provides foundational knowledge in communication and media studies, covering areas such as media theory, digital communication, and creative expression. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and practical skills applicable to various media and communication roles. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for further study at bachelor level or entry-level positions in the creative industries. While specific units are set by the provider, graduates typically gain an understanding of how media shapes society, effective communication strategies, and creative problem-solving.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered entirely in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation studies course. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa requirements. The program is offered on-campus at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus, providing access to modern facilities and a vibrant student community.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$30,000 for the full program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$30,000. However, international students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$27,000–A$35,000 per year, including weekly rent (A$250–A$400), groceries (A$80–A$120), and transport (A$40–A$60). These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with Swinburne University of Technology. The provider's international website (https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international) has the most up-to-date fee schedule.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score between 5.5 and 6.0 (or equivalent English language proficiency). Academic requirements generally include completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Swinburne may offer pathway or foundation options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. These are general guidelines; exact criteria are set by the provider. For specific entry requirements, refer to Swinburne's international admissions page. Note that meeting the minimum English requirement does not guarantee admission; the provider may require higher scores for certain programs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities can help offset living costs, but must not compromise academic progress. Students are advised to check their visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website.
This course is delivered at Swinburne College Pty Ltd, Hawthorn Campus, John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a prestigious inner-eastern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 5 km from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains (Hawthorn station) and trams. Melbourne is a major international student destination with over 200,000 enrolled international students, offering a diverse and inclusive environment. The city's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$300 for shared accommodation. Students can access numerous cultural events, cafes, and green spaces.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and OSHC for the duration of stay. OSHC covers medical and hospital costs; providers like Medibank or Allianz offer plans around A$500–A$700 per year. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (as of 2024; subject to change). Post-study work rights may apply for graduates of higher education degrees, but diplomas may not qualify. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong economy, vibrant arts scene, and excellent education infrastructure. For students in communication and media, Melbourne offers numerous internships, media outlets, and creative networks. The city has a multicultural population, with over 140 nationalities represented. Annual living costs are around A$27,000–A$35,000, including rent, food, and transport. Public transport includes trains, trams, and buses, with a myki card system. Compared to other Australian cities, Melbourne has a slightly lower cost of living than Sydney but higher than Brisbane. Over 200,000 international students choose Melbourne, supported by strong student services and ESOS protections.
Follow these steps to apply for Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink) (Extended) at Swinburne University of Technology:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's filters to compare courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) offers the course that matches your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts) and application deadlines on Swinburne's international website. Submit your application online with supporting documents. You may also need to provide a statement of purpose or portfolio.
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. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. After visa grant, plan your travel and accommodation.
Ready to apply? Follow the steps above to begin your journey at Swinburne University of Technology.
Diploma of Arts and Communication (UniLink) (Extended) 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.