Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing, Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing and Literature) (CRICOS course code 097510J) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of South Australia (UniSA) over 4 years 1 month (~211 weeks). This dual qualification combines practical journalism and professional writing skills with creative writing and literature, preparing graduates for careers in media, publishing, and communications. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, with ESOS Act protections ensuring your rights as a student. Delivered at UniSA’s Magill Campus in Adelaide, South Australia, this program offers a vibrant learning environment in a city known for its arts scene and affordable lifestyle. In this guide, you'll find detailed information on fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, student visa pathways, and how to apply. Whether you're passionate about reporting, storytelling, or digital content creation, this course provides a strong foundation for your future in Australia.
Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing, Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing and Literature) (CRICOS 097510J) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) in the field of Creative Arts (Field of Education 100703 - Journalism). Offered by the University of South Australia (UniSA) (CRICOS 00121B, Government), this dual degree spans 4 years and 1 month (211 weeks) of full-time study. The program integrates journalism, professional writing, and creative writing, allowing you to develop versatile communication skills. UniSA is recognized for its industry connections and commitment to work-integrated learning, ensuring graduates are career-ready. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UniSA meets the stringent requirements of the Australian Government, giving international students confidence in the quality of their education. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
This dual degree combines two related disciplines: journalism and professional writing, and creative writing and literature. In the journalism stream, you'll learn news reporting, feature writing, digital media production, and media ethics. The creative writing component covers fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and literary analysis. At AQF Level 7 (Bachelor Degree), graduates can apply broad theoretical and technical knowledge to real-world contexts, analyze complex information, and communicate effectively across various media. The field of education (100703 - Journalism) encompasses skills in news gathering, editing, and publication across print, broadcast, and online platforms. This course does not include foundation studies, so direct entry typically requires prior academic qualifications. The dual qualification means you graduate with two degrees in less time than if taken separately, broadening your career options.
The course duration is 4 years and 1 month (211 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. As a dual qualification, you study both degrees simultaneously, integrating coursework from both disciplines. This structure allows you to complete two AQF Level 7 awards in approximately the same time as a single bachelor's degree, thanks to shared elective space and coordinated curriculum. Full-time study is typical for international students to maintain visa compliance. The program includes a mandatory work component (see below) that integrates practical experience. UniSA offers a supportive learning environment with access to modern media labs, writing studios, and library resources. The duration is indicative; individual progress may vary based on subject selection and academic performance.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$131,200 for the entire program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$131,200. Please note: these fees are sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are set by the University of South Australia. They are subject to change, so always confirm current fees directly with the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For an accurate fee schedule, visit UniSA's website (www.unisa.edu.au). HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not collect commissions or referral fees. As an international student in Australia, you should budget for living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport) which vary by city; in Adelaide, weekly rent for a shared apartment is approximately A$200–A$350.
Entry requirements for this course are set by UniSA and typically include: English language proficiency of IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent), and completion of Australian Year 12 or an international equivalent. You should have strong academic records in English or humanities subjects. If you don't meet the direct entry requirements, UniSA may offer pathway programs such as foundation studies or diplomas. Check with the provider for specific options. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Always verify the latest entry criteria on UniSA's official website, as requirements can change.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, approximately 80 total hours (hours per week not specified). This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes the form of an industry placement or internship, where you apply your journalism and writing skills in a real-world media or publishing environment. WIL is designed to enhance employability and professional networks. Placements are typically arranged by the university in partnership with media organizations, PR firms, or publishing houses. You'll receive supervision and assessment as part of your degree. This practical experience is invaluable for building a portfolio and gaining Australian industry references.
This course is delivered at the University of South Australia, Magill Campus, located in MAGILL, South Australia. Magill is a suburb of Adelaide, approximately 8 km east of the city centre, with easy access by public transport (bus and train). Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, home to over 1.3 million people, including a large international student community. The city is known for its affordability compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with lower rental costs and a relaxed lifestyle. Magill Campus offers modern facilities, including media labs, a library, and student support services. Studying in Adelaide means you can enjoy festivals, beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. The state of South Australia has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UniSA, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and English proficiency evidence. With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your visa. The Department of Home Affairs also requires you to demonstrate financial capacity – for example, living costs in Adelaide are estimated at A$21,041 per year (2025 rate). Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department's website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personal guidance.
Adelaide consistently ranks as one of Australia's most affordable and liveable cities for students. With over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, including the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and UniSA, you'll join a diverse student population of over 40,000 international students. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne – typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–A$350, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport monthly passes cost about A$100. Adelaide's public transport network (buses, trains, trams) makes it easy to commute to Magill Campus. The city is also home to the Adelaide Festival, Fringe, and a thriving food and wine scene. For journalism and creative writing students, Adelaide offers opportunities to engage with local media outlets, publishing houses, and arts organizations. Consider whether the city's lifestyle and industry connections align with your career goals.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at University of South Australia (UniSA):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that UniSA (CRICOS 00121B) and course 097510J are current. Compare other journalism degrees in South Australia if desired.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check UniSA's entry requirements, including English language test scores and academic transcripts. Prepare your documents and submit an application through UniSA's online portal. Deadlines vary by intake (typically February and July).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, UniSA will issue your CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent.
Ready to start your journalism journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or visit UniSA's website to apply.
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Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing, Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing and Literature) 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.