Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours) (CRICOS course code 097999A) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. This program is designed for creative thinkers who want to deepen their practice in visual arts and crafts, combining theoretical study with hands-on creative work. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. UNSW is a public university consistently ranked among the top 50 globally, and its Art & Design campus in Paddington offers a vibrant, studio-based learning environment. Whether you're aiming to become a professional artist, curator, or arts researcher, this honours year provides the advanced skills and critical framework to launch your career. HeadStart Academy is your free, trusted guide to CRICOS-registered courses across Australia.
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Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours) (CRICOS 097999A) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (CRICOS 00098G). This program falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 100399 - Visual Arts and Crafts, n.e.c. The CRICOS register shows a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) with instruction in English. The course has a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 15 hours per week (approximately 150 total hours), providing real-world industry experience. UNSW is a government-owned university with a strong reputation for research and teaching. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component.
At the Bachelor Honours level, students extend their knowledge in visual arts and crafts through advanced studio practice, critical theory, and research methods. The program typically includes a major creative project or thesis, allowing you to explore a specific area of media arts in depth. You'll develop skills in conceptual development, material experimentation, and professional presentation. Graduates often pursue careers as visual artists, multimedia designers, arts administrators, or further study at postgraduate level. UNSW Art & Design emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with contemporary art discourse.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks) on a full-time basis, as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual awards or foundation programs are included. Students are expected to attend classes, studios, and workshops at the Paddington campus. The program also includes a work-integrated learning component (see Work Component section).
Tuition fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours), the indicative tuition is A$45,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, giving an estimated total of A$46,500. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Living costs in Sydney are approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for a single student. Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW by visiting www.unsw.edu.au. Fees are subject to change by the institution.
International students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 and no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent test). Prior qualifications should include a completed bachelor degree in a related field, usually with a minimum credit average. Specific prerequisites are set by UNSW – check the university website for exact details. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry. Consult UNSW International for guidance.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks, 15 hours per week (~150 total hours). The nature of the placement can range from industry internships in arts organisations, gallery placements, or project-based work with creative enterprises. This experience allows you to apply academic learning in a professional context, build your portfolio, and develop industry networks. The placement is supervised and integrated into the curriculum.
Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours) is delivered at UNSW Art & Design – Paddington, NSW. Paddington is an inner-eastern suburb of Sydney, known for its galleries, cafes, and creative scene. The campus is well-connected by public transport, with buses from the city and nearby train stations. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and is a major study destination for international students. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with rent averaging A$300–A$500 per week for shared accommodation.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice – we are a free resource for CRICOS course information.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours) at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm UNSW is CRICOS-registered (00098G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and any portfolio required. Check UNSW's application deadlines and submit your application through the university's portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once UNSW issues your CoE, submit your visa application online. Meet all GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a global hub for arts and culture. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, you'll find a diverse student community. The city offers world-class museums, galleries, and a thriving media arts scene. However, the cost of living is higher than other Australian cities – budget approximately A$25,000 per year for living expenses. Public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries, making it easy to commute to the Paddington campus. Consider your personal preferences for lifestyle, climate, and career opportunities when choosing Sydney.
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Bachelor of Media Arts (Honours) 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.