Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) (CRICOS course code 102836G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 3 years. This program, registered on the official CRICOS register (provider code 00312F), equips international students with the creative and technical skills needed for a career in graphic design. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian government standards for international education, ensuring ESOS Act protections and quality assurance. SAE Institute, a private provider, offers this course across six Australian campuses: Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. With a focus on hands-on learning and industry connections, graduates emerge ready for roles in design agencies, publishing, advertising, and digital media. Australia boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Bachelor of Design stands out for its practical approach and nationwide delivery. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026), to help you make an informed decision about studying in Australia.
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Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) (102836G) is a full-time bachelor degree at AQF Level 7, offered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F). The course is classified under Field of Education 100599 - Graphic and Design Studies, n.e.c., placing it within the broader creative arts field. Over three years (156 weeks), students develop expertise in visual communication, typography, branding, digital design, and user experience. The program includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (approximately 80 total hours) for industry placement or internship, giving students real-world experience. SAE Institute, established in 1976, is a global creative arts educator with a strong presence in Australia. All data on this page is sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026 and is subject to change. HeadStart Academy verifies that only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and SAE Institute holds this registration with the Australian Government.
This Bachelor of Design program focuses on graphic and design studies, covering core areas such as visual communication, design theory, digital media, and professional practice. Students learn to create compelling visual solutions for print and digital platforms, using industry-standard software and tools. The curriculum emphasises creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the design industry. While specific subject offerings are determined by SAE Institute, typical learning outcomes include proficiency in design principles, typography, branding, web design, and motion graphics. The course also integrates work-integrated learning through a substantial work component, ensuring students can apply their skills in real-world settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Qualifications Framework standards for bachelor degrees.
The Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) is a three-year full-time program, totaling 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students typically attend classes on campus, with some blended learning options available depending on the campus. The duration is standard for bachelor degrees in Australia, allowing international students to plan their study and visa accordingly. It is important to note that the course is not a VET program (N/A VET national code) and sits at AQF Level 7. Full-time study ensures eligibility for a Student visa (Subclass 500) with standard work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks).
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$83,880, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,369, bringing the estimated total to A$85,249. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by SAE Institute Pty Ltd. Please note that these are indicative only and subject to change. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year), living expenses (on average A$21,041 per year as per Home Affairs guidelines), and the visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Always confirm the latest fees directly with SAE Institute at www.sae.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
Entry requirements for Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent. Some applicants may need to submit a portfolio or demonstrate creative aptitude. Foundation or pathway options may be available through SAE Institute or partner institutions for students who do not meet direct entry requirements—refer to the provider for details. These requirements are indicative; SAE Institute sets final admission criteria. International students should also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, approximately 80 total hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) element involves an industry placement, internship, or real-world project, allowing students to gain practical experience in graphic design settings. The work component is designed to bridge classroom learning with professional practice, enhancing employability. Hours per week are not specified on the CRICOS register but likely range from 5–10 hours per week depending on campus and placement. This component is integral to the course and contributes to meeting the Australian Qualifications Framework requirements for bachelor degrees. Students are supported by SAE Institute's industry connections and career services.
SAE Institute delivers this course at six campuses across Australia: SAE Adelaide (Adelaide, SA), SAE Brisbane (West End, QLD), SAE Byron Bay (Byron Bay, NSW), SAE Melbourne (South Melbourne, VIC), SAE Perth (Northbridge, WA), and SAE Sydney (Chippendale, NSW). Each campus offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and local design communities. Adelaide, for example, has a growing creative sector with affordable living costs (weekly rent ~$400). Brisbane's West End is a cultural hub near public transport. Byron Bay offers a unique coastal study environment. Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney provide vibrant arts scenes and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle and budget. Living costs vary: Sydney is more expensive (~$600/week rent), while Perth and Adelaide are more affordable. Check the provider's website for campus-specific details.
International students studying this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays; maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration; meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria; and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring tuition assurance and refund policies. Always apply through the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance as a general reference—consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for your specific situation. Note that visa conditions may change; refer to homeaffairs.gov.au.
Applying for Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) at SAE Institute involves three steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that SAE Institute (CRICOS 00312F) is registered for course 102836G. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Submit your application to SAE Institute, meeting entry requirements including English test scores and academic qualifications. Deadlines vary by campus and intake. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you will receive a CoE, which is required for your visa application. Prepare your documentation and lodge your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Choosing to study a Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) in Australia offers exposure to a dynamic creative industry and a multicultural environment. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses, Australia is a top destination for design education. Consider your preferred city's creative scene, cost of living, and campus culture. SAE Institute's six locations provide flexibility, but each city has unique advantages: Sydney and Melbourne for networking, Brisbane for affordability, Byron Bay for lifestyle, Adelaide for a close-knit community, and Perth for a growing arts sector. Also factor in the ESOS Act protections that safeguard your tuition fees and academic experience. This course's work component adds practical value, but ensure you are comfortable with the indicative total cost of over A$85,000 plus living expenses. HeadStart Academy's free resources can help you compare options—no referral fees involved.
Start your application journey today — contact SAE Institute directly for the latest fees and intake dates.
Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) is a CRICOS-registered programme at SAE Institute Pty Ltd. 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.