Bachelor of Contemporary Art (CRICOS course code 095004K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 3 years 1 month (~159 weeks). This program is designed for international students who want to develop a professional practice in contemporary visual arts and crafts. Offered at UniSA's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, the course provides a strong foundation in creative thinking, technical skills, and critical analysis. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Whether you aim to become an artist, curator, or arts manager, this degree opens doors to the vibrant Australian creative sector. On this page, HeadStart Academy provides an independent overview based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — helping you make an informed decision. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Bachelor of Contemporary Art (CRICOS course code 095004K) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in the field of Visual Arts and Crafts (Field of Education: 100300). University of South Australia (UniSA) — a government-funded institution — offers this program at its City West Campus in Adelaide. The course runs for 3 years and 1 month (159 weeks) with instruction in English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies or a mandatory work component. Indicative tuition fees are A$98,400, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00121B), it is subject to Australian Government quality assurance and the ESOS Act, giving you important protections. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses — this degree is one of many pathways to studying in Australia.
This Bachelor degree in Contemporary Art focuses on the creative and critical practices within visual arts and crafts. Students typically engage in studio-based learning across disciplines such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, and mixed media. The curriculum encourages experimentation with materials and concepts, along with art history, theory, and professional practice. At AQF Level 7, graduates are expected to demonstrate broad theoretical and technical knowledge, independent judgement, and communication skills applicable to careers in the arts. While specific subjects are set by the provider, the CRICOS-registered field of education (Visual Arts and Crafts, n.f.d.) indicates a generalist programme covering contemporary art making. Studying in Adelaide — home to numerous galleries, festivals, and a thriving arts community — provides rich cultural immersion. For detailed subject outlines, visit the University of South Australia's website directly.
The Bachelor of Contemporary Art is listed as 3 years 1 month (159 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This duration typically reflects a standard full-time study load, allowing international students to meet visa requirements. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification — no dual degree or foundation year is included. As a CRICOS-registered program, the duration and mode are approved by the Australian Government. Students should plan for three academic years plus an additional month, which may accommodate orientation or exam periods. Full-time study is mandatory for student visa holders (Subclass 500). For any variations in study load, you must seek permission from your provider and ensure compliance with visa conditions.
According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for the entire Bachelor of Contemporary Art is A$98,400. There are no non-tuition fees listed (A$0), so the estimated total is A$98,400. However, this is only tuition and does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For example, the Australian Government recommends a living cost budget of approximately A$21,041 per year (2026 rate) for a single student, plus OSHC which averages A$500–A$700 per year. These costs vary by city — in Adelaide, weekly rent can range from A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$40–$60. Remember, fees are set by the provider and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the University of South Australia website before applying. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees — we source data directly from the official CRICOS register.
Admission to the Bachelor of Contemporary Art requires completion of Australian Year 12 (or overseas equivalent) with satisfactory results. International students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency — the CRICOS register indicates IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0. Other tests like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge may also be accepted — check with the provider. Some students may enter via foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. The University of South Australia offers a range of pathway options; refer to their website for details. Always verify specific entry criteria with the institution, as requirements can change. Note that this course does not include foundation studies within its CRICOS listing.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component in its CRICOS registration. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This is subject to visa conditions and your enrolment status. Work can help with living costs and gain local experience, but must not compromise your studies. For current work rights, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at University of South Australia's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant, affordable city with a strong arts scene — home to the Adelaide Festival, Fringe, and numerous galleries. The campus is well-connected by public transport (buses, trams, trains). As a study destination, Adelaide offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with many international students attracted to its community feel. Over 30 CRICOS-registered providers operate in South Australia, offering hundreds of courses. For more on studying in SA, see our /states/sa page.
To study this Bachelor degree, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from University of South Australia, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient English proficiency, OSHC health cover, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2026, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holidays. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees and provides a complaints process. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Contemporary Art at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that your chosen provider and course are registered. HeadStart Academy lists only CRICOS-registered institutions, ensuring your course meets Australian standards.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements, including academic qualifications and English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.0-6.5). Prepare your documents (transcripts, passport, personal statement) and submit an application via the University of South Australia's online portal. Note application deadlines — typically semesters start in February and July.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You'll also need to arrange OSHC and show proof of funds. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Follow the 3-step guide above and start your journey at University of South Australia (UniSA). For more resources, explore other CRICOS courses on HeadStart Academy.
View the full University of South Australia (UniSA) profile →
Bachelor of Contemporary Art 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.