Graduate Diploma in Design (CRICOS course code 103010H) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Curtin University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in a related field and wish to deepen their expertise in graphic arts and design studies. Whether you're aiming to become a professional graphic designer, art director, or creative strategist, this course equips you with advanced skills in visual communication, typography, and digital design. Curtin University is a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 00301J, ensuring it meets the high standards required to enroll international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, your guarantee of accuracy.
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The Graduate Diploma in Design (CRICOS 103010H) is a 1-year program (52 weeks) offered by Curtin University at its Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia. It falls under the field of education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically Graphic and Design Studies (100501). As a Graduate Diploma, it requires prior tertiary study and is ideal for those seeking to specialise or update their design skills. The course is delivered in English and leads to a single qualification without a work component. Curtin University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. The ESOS Act protects your rights as a student.
Graduates of this program will develop advanced knowledge and skills in graphic design, including design theory, digital tools, user experience (UX) principles, and project management. The curriculum covers both creative and technical aspects, preparing you for leadership roles in design agencies, publishing, branding, and multimedia. While specific units are set by the university, typical learning outcomes include creating compelling visual narratives, understanding design trends, and producing portfolio-ready work. You'll also gain critical thinking and research skills essential for the creative industries.
The Graduate Diploma in Design is a 1-year full-time program, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education course.
Tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Design are indicative and set by Curtin University. According to the CRICOS register, the indicative tuition fee is A$30,766 per year. Additional non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) amount to approximately A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$31,766. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with the provider at www.curtin.edu.au before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent), plus a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field. Some students may enter via a Graduate Certificate or pathway program – check with Curtin for foundation options. Meeting the English requirement is essential for visa eligibility. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for precise entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a CRICOS-registered course, it allows student visa holders to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Graduate Diploma in Design is delivered at Curtin University of Technology's Bentley campus in Perth, Western Australia. Perth is a vibrant city with a growing creative sector, home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is accessible by public transport and offers modern design studios and labs. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around A$250-A$400 for shared accommodation.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Curtin, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). You can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying. For visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Design at Curtin University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses. Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (103010H) and the provider (00301J) meets your expectations. 2. Apply directly to Curtin University: Check entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test results, and submit an application before the deadline. Curtin's website (www.curtin.edu.au) has detailed application guides. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Curtin will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include your GTE statement, OSHC, and proof of funds.
Ready to apply? Check the entry requirements and apply directly to Curtin University.
Graduate Diploma in Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Curtin University. 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.