Considering a Bachelor of Art and Design in Australia? This CRICOS-registered course (code 096003C) at Southern Cross University (SCU) is a 3-year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in the field of Fine Arts (Visual Arts and Crafts). Delivered at SCU's Lismore campus in New South Wales, this program equips students with foundational and advanced skills in creative practice, art history, and critical theory. As a CRICOS-registered provider (01241G), SCU is approved to enrol international students and is subject to ESOS Act protections. The course is designed to prepare graduates for careers as professional artists, designers, or arts administrators, with a strong emphasis on studio-based learning and industry engagement. With an indicative total cost of A$84,000, this program offers a comprehensive education in a regional setting known for its vibrant arts community. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — always verify current details with the provider and the official CRICOS register.
The Bachelor of Art and Design (CRICOS course code 096003C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 3 years (156 weeks) of full-time study. Classified under the field of education 100301 – Fine Arts, this course immerses students in visual arts and crafts, covering drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, and design principles. SCU is a public university with a strong reputation for creative arts, and its Lismore campus provides a supportive environment for hands-on learning. The course is taught in English and leads to a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies are included. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from the ESOS legal framework, ensuring quality education and student support. HeadStart Academy sources this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 registered providers offering over 26,000 courses across Australia.
While specific syllabi may vary, a Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts at this level typically covers core areas such as studio practice, art history, contemporary theory, and professional skills. Students engage in hands-on projects, critiques, and exhibitions, developing a portfolio that demonstrates technical proficiency and conceptual depth. The field of Visual Arts and Crafts (1003) encompasses traditional and new media, encouraging experimentation across disciplines. Graduates are expected to analyse artistic traditions, apply creative problem-solving, and communicate ideas effectively. At SCU, the program emphasises connection to the regional environment and Indigenous perspectives, enriching the learning experience. This general guidance is based on AQF Level 7 descriptors; for precise curriculum details, consult the provider directly.
The Bachelor of Art and Design has a standard duration of 3 years (156 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time course delivered in English. No dual qualification or foundation studies are offered within this CRICOS registration. The course is single-qualification only. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. All SCU courses are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian Government standards for overseas students.
Course fees shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register. For the Bachelor of Art and Design at Southern Cross University (SCU), the estimated tuition fee is A$78,000, with non-tuition fees of A$6,000, bringing the total to approximately A$84,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Lismore are generally lower than in major cities — indicative weekly expenses might include rent (A$200–$300), groceries (A$80–$120), and transport (A$20–$40). However, these are only rough estimates. Always confirm current fees with SCU at www.scu.edu.au, as institutions set their own fees and they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee amounts.
General entry requirements for a Bachelor Degree in Australia typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, with specific prerequisite subjects if applicable. For international students, English language proficiency is required — indicative scores are IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0. Some students may need to complete pathway or foundation programs if they do not meet direct entry. SCU offers alternative entry options; check their website or contact admissions. Note that this is general guidance only — HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility. Prospective students should verify requirements with the provider and, for visa purposes, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may undertake voluntary work or seek paid employment within visa conditions. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not compromise course attendance or progress. Check the Department of Home Affairs for current work rights.
The Bachelor of Art and Design is delivered at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus, located in EAST LISMORE, NSW. Lismore is a regional city in the Northern Rivers region, known for its creative arts scene, markets, and natural beauty. The campus is accessible by public transport, and the city has a growing student population. Lismore offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students seeking a balanced lifestyle. There are several other CRICOS-registered providers in the NSW Northern Rivers region, giving students choice. HeadStart Academy's provider profile for SCU (CRICOS 01241G) provides further details on facilities and support services.
International students must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), and dependents' expenses. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After graduation, eligible students may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a MARA-registered agent for personalised visa advice.
Ready to apply for the Bachelor of Art and Design at Southern Cross University? Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search tool to find approved courses like this one (096003C). Filter by study level (Bachelor Degree), field (Fine Arts), and location (NSW). All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and compliance.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet SCU's entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS). Submit your application via SCU's online portal or through a registered education agent. Be mindful of application deadlines and required documents (academic transcripts, passport, personal statement).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once SCU issues a CoE, you can apply for a Subclass 500 visa. Prepare for GTE assessment, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance, but visa applications should be lodged with professional support from a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Lismore offers a unique blend of regional charm and creative energy. With a population of around 27,000, it is small but culturally active, hosting festivals, galleries, and artisan markets. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Sydney or Melbourne — indicative weekly rent for a share house is A$200–$300, and a weekly grocery budget of A$80–$120 is feasible. Public transport includes buses connecting the campus to the town centre, though many students cycle or walk. The climate is subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters. If you value a tight-knit community, access to nature, and a focus on the arts, Lismore could be ideal. However, consider that regional centres have fewer course options and part-time job opportunities compared to big cities. SCU's Lismore campus is well-equipped with modern studios and libraries. HeadStart Academy's NSW state page offers more details on studying in this region.
Explore more Fine Arts courses at Southern Cross University or other CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Art and Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.