Bachelor of Design (CRICOS course code 097695F) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 program, offered in the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501), equips students with creative and technical skills in design thinking, visual communication, and digital media. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00098G), it ensures international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available in Australia, this program stands out for its industry connections and location in Sydney’s creative hub. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you aim to become a graphic designer, UX/UI specialist, or creative director, this course lays a strong foundation. Read on for detailed fee breakdowns, entry requirements, visa guidance, and application steps.
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The Bachelor of Design (CRICOS 097695F) at UNSW is a full-time, 3-year undergraduate program delivered in English. It falls under the broad field of Creative Arts (10) with a specific focus on Graphic and Design Studies (1005) and Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). Students develop proficiency in design principles, digital tools, and user-centered methodologies. The course is designed to prepare graduates for careers in graphic design, branding, interactive media, and related creative industries. UNSW is a public, government-funded university renowned for its strong industry partnerships and commitment to innovation. This course is CRICOS-registered, meaning it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, and all international students are protected by the ESOS Act. The indicative fees and duration are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change; always confirm with UNSW.
In the Bachelor of Design, students explore the intersection of creativity and technology. The curriculum covers design theory, visual communication, typography, digital media, and user experience (UX) design. While specific subjects are set by UNSW, typical learning outcomes include the ability to conceptualise and execute design projects, use industry-standard software, and apply research and critical thinking to solve complex design challenges. Graduates often pursue careers in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, tech companies, or as freelance designers. The program integrates hands-on projects and critiques, fostering a portfolio-ready skill set. For detailed course structure, refer to UNSW's official website.
The Bachelor of Design is a 3-year program (156 weeks on the CRICOS register) delivered on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Paddington campus, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, studio sessions, and independent study. Part-time study is generally not available for international students on a student visa, as full-time enrolment is required. The course duration is indicative; some students may take longer if they opt for additional subjects or industrial experience.
The indicative tuition fee for the full 3-year Bachelor of Design at UNSW is A$145,500. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, student services, and amenities) are estimated at A$3,000, bringing the estimated total to A$148,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, please visit UNSW's official website. International students should budget for additional expenses: OSHC (approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover), living costs (weekly rent in Sydney averages A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50), and the student visa application fee (currently A$710). HeadStart Academy recommends confirming all costs directly with UNSW before applying.
Entry into the Bachelor of Design typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, with a competitive ATAR (or equivalent) and prerequisites in English and/or visual arts. For international students, English language proficiency is demonstrated through IELTS, with a suggested overall band score of 6.0–6.5 and no band below 5.5–6.0 (exact requirements are set by UNSW). Other accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English. Some students may be eligible for pathway programs (e.g., UNSW Foundation Studies) if they do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check UNSW’s official entry requirements, as they may change.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of industry placement at 15 hours per week (approximately 150 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) provides students with practical experience in a design studio, agency, or corporate design department. It helps bridge classroom theory with professional practice, allowing students to build their portfolio and network. Students may undertake placements in various design roles, such as graphic design assistant, junior UX designer, or production artist. UNSW’s industry connections facilitate placement opportunities, but students may also source their own. The work component is credit-bearing and typically completed in the final year.
The Bachelor of Design is delivered at UNSW Art & Design — Paddington, NSW. Paddington is an inner-eastern suburb of Sydney, known for its vibrant arts scene, galleries, and boutiques. The campus is easily accessible by bus from the city centre and has good transport links. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, with over 200,000 international students enrolled across multiple universities and institutions. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia, but the city offers diverse cultural and career opportunities. Public transport to Paddington is convenient, with regular buses from the CBD and nearby suburbs. The campus itself is purpose-built for design education, featuring studios, workshops, and exhibition spaces.
International students enrolling in the Bachelor of Design will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include: proving genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language requirements. Students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). OSHC is mandatory for international students and must be arranged before visa grant. The cost of OSHC varies but is around A$500–$700 per year for single cover. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; always verify with official sources.
Sydney offers a dynamic environment for design students, with a thriving creative industry and numerous design festivals, galleries, and coworking spaces. Paddington, in particular, is a hub for artists and designers, with the campus located near Oxford Street and the iconic Bondi Beach. However, Sydney's cost of living is high; expect weekly rent for a shared room around A$300–$450, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50. The city has a large and diverse student population, with over 200,000 international students from various countries. Public transport is extensive but can be costly; consider a student Opal card for discounts. If you value a vibrant, multicultural city with abundant creative opportunities, Sydney is an excellent choice. For a more affordable alternative, consider other Australian cities like Melbourne or Brisbane.
Applying for the Bachelor of Design at UNSW involves three key steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) and the Bachelor of Design (097695F) meet your goals. Check entry requirements and compare with other design programs in Sydney.
2. **Apply directly to UNSW**: Submit your application through UNSW's online portal or via a registered agent. Provide academic transcripts, English test scores, a portfolio (if required), and any other supporting documents. Note application deadlines – typically in November for Semester 1 start (February) and June for Semester 2 (August). Pay the application fee and await the outcome.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once UNSW issues your CoE, you can lodge a visa application. Prepare evidence of GTE, financial capacity, OSHC, and English proficiency. Submit online through ImmiAccount and pay the visa application charge (currently A$710). Processing times vary; apply early. After visa grant, plan your travel and accommodation in Sydney.
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Bachelor of Design 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.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.