Associate Degree of Communication Design (CRICOS course code 090287A) is a Associate Degree delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited over 2 years. This AQF Level 6 qualification is designed for international students seeking a practical foundation in graphic and design studies. The course covers core areas of visual communication, typography, branding, and digital media, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in the creative industries. As a CRICOS-registered course (03389E), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, with delivery locations in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your study rights under the ESOS Act are protected. Read on for detailed fee information, entry requirements, and student visa guidance.
Associate Degree of Communication Design (CRICOS course code 090287A) is a Associate Degree delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited over 2 years. The course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10) with a focus on Graphic and Design Studies (1005), specifically Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). This level equips students with technical and conceptual skills in design thinking, visual storytelling, and user-centred design. Graduates may pursue roles such as graphic designer, production artist, or digital content creator. The course is single qualification (not dual) and does not include foundation studies. CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian government quality standards for international education. Torrens University Australia Limited (CRICOS 03389E) is a private provider with multiple campuses across Australia. For current fee and course details, always visit the provider's website at www.torrens.edu.au.
This Associate Degree immerses students in the principles of communication design, combining theory with hands-on projects. Typical learning areas include design theory, typography, digital imaging, branding, interactive media, and professional practice. Students develop a portfolio demonstrating proficiency in industry-standard software and design processes. The curriculum emphasises creative problem-solving, visual literacy, and effective communication across various media. As a Level 6 AQF qualification, it balances academic knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for further study (e.g., Bachelor of Communication Design) or direct entry into the workforce. Note: This is a general guide – the exact syllabus is set by Torrens University Australia. Contact the provider for a detailed course outline.
According to the CRICOS register, the Associate Degree of Communication Design runs for 2 years, equating to 104 weeks. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. International students must maintain full-time enrolment under their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course is delivered face-to-face at campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. There is no mandatory online component, but some digital resources may be provided. Always confirm study mode and timetable directly with Torrens University Australia.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: Tuition fee is A$75,000, non-tuition fees are A$0, giving an estimated total of A$75,000. Please note that these fees are indicative only and subject to change – always confirm with the provider. The total does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa; costs vary by provider and coverage level. Living costs in Australia are estimated at around A$21,041 per year (Australian Government guideline 2025) plus tuition. For current fees and payment options, visit the Torrens University Australia website at www.torrens.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not set fees – we provide this information as a free resource.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Associate Degree, a minimum IELTS of 6.0 (or equivalent) is commonly required. Academic entry: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. Some providers may consider relevant work experience or foundation pathways. Foundation/pathway options: If you do not meet direct entry requirements, Torrens University Australia may offer a Foundation Studies or Diploma program leading into this degree. Refer to the provider's official entry requirements page. Note: These are general guidelines – you should check the specific requirements on the Torrens University Australia website or contact their admissions team.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). All work must not interfere with course attendance. Practical experience is encouraged through internships or part-time work in design studios, but these are not part of the CRICOS course structure.
The Associate Degree of Communication Design is delivered at three Torrens University Australia campuses: - 1-37 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 — Surry Hills (Sydney, NSW) - 196 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000 — Melbourne CBD (VIC) - 90 Bowen Terrace, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 — Fortitude Valley (Brisbane, QLD) Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students and more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering creative arts courses. Melbourne is a vibrant cultural hub with a strong design scene, hosting over 170,000 international students. Brisbane's Fortitude Valley is known for its creative precinct, with a growing student population of around 80,000. All campuses are accessible via public transport. Living costs vary by city: Sydney is the most expensive (weekly rent ~$350-600), Melbourne slightly lower (~$300-500), and Brisbane more affordable (~$250-450). These figures are indicative.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay - Evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel) - English language proficiency (typically IELTS 5.5-7.0) - Enrolment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Post-study work rights may apply after graduation – this course is 2 years, so may qualify for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) stream (check current length). For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Choosing between Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane for your Communication Design studies depends on your preferences for city lifestyle, cost of living, and industry opportunities. Sydney offers a bustling design scene with many agencies and studios, but higher living costs. Melbourne is known for its street art and design culture, with a slightly lower cost of living and strong creative community. Brisbane provides a more affordable option with a growing arts sector. All three cities have excellent public transport connecting campuses to student hubs. Consider visiting or researching each city's creative industries before applying. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to compare providers and locations – explore more on our site.
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Associate Degree of Communication Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Torrens University Australia 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.