Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) University of Canberra

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) — University of Canberra (CRICOS 095562B)

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) (CRICOS course code 095562B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of Canberra over 3 years. This program is designed for international students seeking to develop advanced skills in written communication, narrative craft, and creative expression. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. University of Canberra, a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00212K), offers this course at its Bruce campus in Canberra, ACT. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this program stands out for its focus on creative writing within a broad arts framework. Whether you aspire to become a novelist, editor, or content creator, this degree provides a strong foundation. Tuition is indicative at A$101,400, with additional costs for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and living expenses. Use HeadStart Academy — a free resource with no referral fees — to explore this and other CRICOS-registered courses.

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Course overview

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) (CRICOS course code 095562B) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by University of Canberra over 3 years (156 weeks). The course is classified under Field of Education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 100705 - Written Communication. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation study component. Instruction is entirely in English. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00212K), it is approved for international student enrolment under Australian Government oversight. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may access work opportunities during their studies in line with student visa conditions. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.

What you'll study

This program focuses on the theory and practice of written communication, creative writing, and media studies. Students typically explore narrative techniques, genre writing, editing, and publishing contexts. At AQF Level 7 (Bachelor Degree), graduates are expected to apply broad knowledge and skills in diverse professional settings. The curriculum develops analytical and creative abilities essential for careers in writing, publishing, journalism, and content creation. While the specific syllabus is set by University of Canberra, the field emphasizes both critical analysis and practical production of written works. This aligns with Australia's strong creative industries sector, particularly in Canberra's growing cultural scene.

Duration and study mode

The course duration is 3 years, equating to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is offered as a full-time program in English. There is no dual qualification or integrated foundation year. Students commence in standard semesters as determined by University of Canberra. The single-qualification structure allows focused study in creative writing within a Bachelor of Arts framework. Given the standard duration, international students can plan their visa accordingly — the Student Visa (Subclass 500) typically covers the full course length plus sufficient time for completion.

Fees (indicative — set by University of Canberra)

Tuition for this course is A$101,400 (indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,095, bringing the estimated total to A$102,495. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and varies by provider; budget approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Canberra are approximately A$450–A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with University of Canberra via their official website, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data only.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English language tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may also be accepted. Prior qualifications should meet Australian Year 12 or equivalent standard for Bachelor Degree entry. Some applicants may need foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements — check with University of Canberra for available options. These are general guidelines; exact requirements are set by the institution and may vary. Consult the provider's admissions page for precise conditions.

Work component

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 and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides valuable opportunity to gain work experience in Canberra, which has a strong public sector and growing creative industries.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at UC - Canberra, Bruce, located in Bruce, Australian Capital Territory. Canberra is the national capital, home to over 450,000 people and a vibrant student population. The Bruce campus is well-served by public transport and close to the city centre. Canberra has more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 1,000 courses. Typical living costs in Canberra include weekly rent of A$300–A$450 for shared accommodation, groceries around A$80–A$150, and public transport costs of A$30–A$50 per week. The city offers a safe, modern environment with extensive green spaces and cultural institutions.

Student visa

To study this course, international students require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel. Students must also maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition protection and education quality. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.

Is Canberra right for you?

Canberra offers a unique study experience as Australia's planned capital. It hosts a large international student community across several universities. The city is known for its high quality of life, safety, and access to national institutions like Parliament House, museums, and galleries. For creative writing students, Canberra's literary scene includes festivals, writer's centres, and publishing houses. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Public transport is reliable, and the city is bike-friendly. Consider whether you prefer a smaller, more focused city over larger hubs. Canberra's job market is strong in government and education, and part-time work opportunities exist in retail, hospitality, and administration.

Ready to apply? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy — explore CRICOS-registered courses and get expert guidance.

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Source-backed course facts

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Canberra. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing)
CRICOS course code
095562B
Provider
University of Canberra (00212K)
Course level
Bachelor Degree
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
156 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$101,400
Estimated total (indicative)
A$102,495
Delivery locations
Bruce
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative total cost is A$102,495, comprising A$101,400 in tuition and A$1,095 in non-tuition fees. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. OSHC, living expenses, and visa fees are not included. Always check University of Canberra's website for the most current fees.
The course duration is 3 years, which is 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is offered as a full-time program. Students should plan their visa to cover the full study period plus reasonable time for completion.
Typical entry requires an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0, or equivalent. You should also meet the Australian Year 12 standard or equivalent. If you do not meet these, University of Canberra may offer foundation or pathway programs. Exact requirements are set by the university — confirm directly.
This course is delivered at the University of Canberra's Bruce campus in Bruce, Australian Capital Territory. Canberra is the national capital with a thriving student community. The campus is accessible by public transport and offers modern facilities.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$102,495 for Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) (tuition A$101,400). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with University of Canberra before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 095562B, offered by University of Canberra (provider code 00212K). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.