Graduate Diploma in Design (Contemporary Art) (CRICOS course code 095762E) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students who want to deepen their creative practice in contemporary art, focusing on visual arts and crafts within the field of Creative Arts (Field 10). Based at UniSA's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, this course offers a studio-based learning environment. HeadStart Academy provides this information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and all listed institutions are subject to ESOS Act protections.
Graduate Diploma in Design (Contemporary Art) (CRICOS course code 095762E) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification is in the field of Visual Arts and Crafts (100300), part of Creative Arts. The course is designed for international students seeking to advance their skills in contemporary art practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00121B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student programs. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
This Graduate Diploma focuses on advanced concepts in contemporary art, including studio practice, critical theory, and professional development. Students typically engage in projects that explore new media, installation, sculpture, painting, or digital art. The curriculum is designed to build on prior undergraduate knowledge, encouraging independent research and creative experimentation. Graduates often pursue careers as practicing artists, curators, or arts administrators, or continue to master's-level study. Note: This description is a general guide; the specific syllabus is set by University of South Australia (UniSA).
The course has a scheduled duration of 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). There is no work component included. Full-time study is assumed; part-time options may be available on request. International students should maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fee: A$38,300. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total course cost: A$38,300. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$350–500 per week in Adelaide for rent, groceries, and transport), and the Student visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with University of South Australia (UniSA) before applying.
General English language requirement: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field (e.g., visual arts, design). Some institutions may require a portfolio or interview. No foundation studies are offered as part of this course. For precise entry requirements, refer to the provider's website. HeadStart Academy advises that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship placement. However, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at University of South Australia's City West Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a capital city known for its affordable cost of living, vibrant arts scene, and diverse student community. The campus is accessible by public transport (bus, tram, train). International students in Adelaide benefit from a supportive environment with over 40,000 international students enrolled across the city's institutions. To explore other options, see Graduate Diploma courses in South Australia or study in South Australia.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled course breaks. Spouses/partners may have work rights. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Design (Contemporary Art) at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and institutions. Filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Creative Arts), and location (Adelaide). Verify that the provider is CRICOS-registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit UniSA's website for application procedures, document requirements (e.g., academic transcripts, English test results, portfolio), and application deadlines. Ensure you meet the entry requirements.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, UniSA will issue a CoE. Then apply for the visa online through the Department of Home Affairs, providing the CoE, OSHC evidence, and financial documents.
Adelaide offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Average weekly rent for a student is A$200–300 (shared), groceries A$60–100, and public transport A$30–50. The city is known for its festivals (Adelaide Fringe, WOMAD) and thriving arts community. University of South Australia (UniSA) has multiple campuses across Adelaide, with City West located in the cultural precinct. Consider your lifestyle preferences, climate, and career goals when choosing a study destination. HeadStart Academy helps you research all CRICOS-registered options across Australia.
Ready to start your journey? Follow the 3-step application process above and explore more CRICOS-registered courses with HeadStart Academy.
View the full University of South Australia (UniSA) profile →
Graduate Diploma in Design (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.