Graduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapies (CRICOS course code 095428G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 course focuses on human welfare studies and services, specifically counselling, integrating creative arts therapies. Offered at Murdoch’s Mandurah campus, it prepares students for roles in community services, healthcare, and education. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this program is fully registered on the CRICOS register, ensuring international students have access to ESOS Act protections. Tuition is indicative at A$38,940 with additional non-tuition fees of A$365. Prospective students should note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are separate. For accurate and current fees, always refer to Murdoch’s official website.
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The Graduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapies (095428G) is a one-year program designed to equip graduates with skills in using creative arts modalities for therapeutic purposes. It sits within the field of Society and Culture (09) and Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905), specifically counselling (090513). This course is ideal for those seeking to integrate art, music, drama, or dance into professional counselling practice. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets all Australian Government standards for international students. Murdoch University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00125J), delivers this program at its Mandurah campus in Western Australia. Mandurah, a growing coastal city south of Perth, offers a quieter study environment with access to beaches and a vibrant community. The course is taught in English and does not include a mandatory work component, but students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term under their Student visa (Subclass 500).
This Graduate Diploma provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in creative arts therapies. Students explore theoretical frameworks, ethical practice, and therapeutic processes. The curriculum typically covers topics such as counselling theories, group facilitation, and creative arts interventions. Graduates are prepared to work with diverse populations in settings like mental health services, aged care, schools, and community organisations. While specific subjects are determined by Murdoch University, the course aims to develop reflective practitioners capable of integrating creative arts into evidence-based counselling. As a level 8 qualification, it builds on prior undergraduate study, offering a pathway to higher-level practice or further study in counselling or psychotherapy.
The Graduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapies has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. The program is delivered full-time, taught in English, and leads to a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies. Delivery takes place at Murdoch’s Mandurah campus, which offers modern facilities and small class sizes. Students should plan for full-time study commitment, as this is required for compliance with the Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The total indicative cost for this course is A$39,305, comprising A$38,940 in tuition fees and A$365 in non-tuition fees. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Murdoch University — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory for international students — living expenses, and the visa application charge for Subclass 500. For Mandurah, indicative weekly costs: accommodation A$200-350, groceries A$80-120, and local transport A$30-50. Use cost of living calculators for budgeting.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) as a minimum English requirement. Applicants must also hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification suitable for graduate-level study. Specific prerequisites may include background in health, arts, or social sciences. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry — refer to Murdoch University for approved options. Note: this is general guidance; exact requirements are set by the institution.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Always check visa conditions, as work rights are subject to Department of Home Affairs policies.
This course is delivered at Murdoch University’s Mandurah campus in Mandurah, Western Australia. Mandurah is a regional city approximately 70 kilometres south of Perth, known for its canals, beaches, and relaxed lifestyle. The campus is accessible by public transport, with bus services connecting to Mandurah railway station for rail access to Perth. Mandurah has a growing student population, supported by local amenities and affordable living costs compared to Perth CBD. Students benefit from a close-knit learning environment with personalised academic support.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Under ESOS Act protections, students have rights regarding course changes, refunds, and support services. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapies at Murdoch University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Compare this program with similar offerings in WA. 2. Apply directly to Murdoch University — check specific entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare academic transcripts and personal statements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your journey? Check the official Murdoch University page for the latest fees and apply.
Graduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapies is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.