Bachelor of Media Arts UNSW

Bachelor of Media Arts (CRICOS 097694G) at The University of New South Wales

Bachelor of Media Arts (CRICOS course code 097694G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This program, registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), offers international students the opportunity to develop creative and technical skills in visual arts and crafts. UNSW is a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00098G) with a strong reputation for research and teaching. The course is delivered at the UNSW Art & Design campus in Paddington, a vibrant suburb of Sydney. Whether you aim to become an artist, curator, or creative entrepreneur, this degree provides a solid foundation in contemporary media arts practice. HeadStart Academy is your free, independent resource for exploring CRICOS-registered courses like this one. We do not charge fees or receive commissions – our mission is to help you find the right study path in Australia.

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Course overview

Bachelor of Media Arts (CRICOS course code 097694G) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10), specifically Visual Arts and Crafts (1003). Graduates typically gain knowledge and skills in visual literacy, digital media, art theory, and studio practice. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. UNSW is one of Australia's leading universities, with a strong focus on innovation and creative industries.

What you'll study

While specific subjects are set by UNSW, students in this field generally explore areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, video, digital media, and installation art. The program emphasizes critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and professional practice. At the bachelor degree level, you will develop a portfolio of work, engage with contemporary art discourse, and learn to contextualize your practice within historical and cultural frameworks. The course is designed to prepare you for careers in visual arts, media production, or further study at postgraduate level.

Duration and study mode

The course is delivered full-time over 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual award or foundation studies component is included. Students are expected to attend classes and studio sessions at the UNSW Art & Design campus in Paddington. There is no mandatory work component, but students may seek part-time work under their student visa conditions.

Fees (indicative)

The following fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by UNSW and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included in the estimates below.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency, equivalent to IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall (no band below 5.5-6.0). Applicants should have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or have relevant work experience. Some prior study in arts or humanities may be beneficial. UNSW may also offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Refer to the provider's website for precise academic prerequisites.

Work component

No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component.

Delivery locations

The course is delivered at UNSW Art & Design — Paddington, NSW. Paddington is an inner-eastern suburb of Sydney, known for its art galleries and creative community. The campus is accessible by bus from the city centre and nearby train stations. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average – indicative weekly expenses: rent A$350–$600, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$40–$60. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions).

Student visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one); maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status; show sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and dependents. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent.

How to apply

Follow these 3 steps to apply for Bachelor of Media Arts at UNSW:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) is registered to deliver this course.

2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check UNSW's entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and application deadlines. Prepare academic transcripts, portfolio (if required), and a personal statement. Submit your application via UNSW's online portal or through an authorised education agent.

3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE for this course. Use the CoE to apply for a Subclass 500 visa. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Visa processing times vary – apply early.

Is Sydney right for you?

Sydney is Australia's most populous city, with a diverse population and a thriving arts scene. It offers world-class galleries, museums, and creative industries. The cost of living is higher than in other Australian cities, but so are job opportunities in media and design. Public transport connects Paddington to the CBD and other suburbs. Consider your budget, climate preferences, and lifestyle. For a more affordable option, you might explore Bachelor degrees in other states like Victoria or Queensland. HeadStart Academy has comprehensive guides to study destinations across Australia.

Ready to start your study journey? Check your eligibility and apply for Bachelor of Media Arts at UNSW today.

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Source-backed course facts

Bachelor of Media Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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 Media Arts
CRICOS course code
097694G
Provider
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (00098G)
Course level
Bachelor Degree
Field of education
10 - Creative Arts
Duration
156 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$146,000
Estimated total (indicative)
A$149,000
Delivery locations
Paddington
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 for the Bachelor of Media Arts at UNSW is A$149,000, comprising A$146,000 tuition and A$3,000 non-tuition fees. This does not include OSHC, living costs, or visa application fees. Fees are set by UNSW and may change annually. Check UNSW's website for the most current fee schedule.
The Bachelor of Media Arts is a 3-year (156 weeks) full-time program. It is a single qualification with no foundation studies or work component. Students are expected to complete all requirements within the standard duration, though part-time options may be available subject to visa conditions.
International applicants need English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (no band below 5.5–6.0). They should hold a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12. Some courses may require a portfolio or interview. Check UNSW's specific requirements, as they may set higher standards.
The course is delivered at UNSW Art & Design in Paddington, NSW. Paddington is a creative hub in Sydney's inner east. The campus is well-served by public transport. For details on facilities and studio spaces, visit UNSW's website.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$149,000 for Bachelor of Media Arts (tuition A$146,000). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of New South Wales (UNSW) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 097694G, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (provider code 00098G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.