Graduate Diploma of Communication Design (CRICOS course code 103223F) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 1 year. This CRICOS-registered qualification (provider code 00122A) sits at AQF Level 8 and is designed for graduates seeking advanced skills in graphic and design studies. As a government university, RMIT is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. Whether you aim to specialise in communication design or enhance your creative portfolio, this program provides a pathway to higher-level study or employment. HeadStart Academy sources all course data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information. Remember, all CRICOS-listed courses are protected under the ESOS Act, giving international students legal rights and consumer safeguards.
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The Graduate Diploma of Communication Design (CRICOS 103223F) is a 1-year program offered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) at its Melbourne campus. This field of education falls under Creative Arts (10) – Graphic and Design Studies (1005) with a focus on Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). As a Graduate Diploma, it is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent and wish to deepen their practical and theoretical knowledge in communication design. The course is delivered in English and does not include a dual qualification or foundation studies component. RMIT is a public university renowned for its strong industry connections in design, media, and technology. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, RMIT stands out as a top choice for creative disciplines. All information here is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness.
This Graduate Diploma focuses on Graphic Arts and Design Studies, equipping students with advanced skills in visual communication, typography, branding, digital design, and user experience. At this level, graduates typically learn to apply design thinking to complex problems, manage creative projects, and produce professional portfolios. While the specific syllabus is set by RMIT and may vary, the course aims to develop strategic and conceptual abilities alongside technical proficiency. Students can expect to engage in studio-based learning, collaborative projects, and industry-relevant briefs. The field of communication design is evolving rapidly, with Melbourne being a hub for creative industries. Studying at RMIT gives you access to state-of-the-art facilities and a network of design professionals. For a complete list of subjects, consult the provider's official website.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma of Communication Design has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or combined award). The course is offered on a full-time basis at RMIT's Melbourne campus. There are no foundation studies or VET components, and no mandatory work component is included. If you require a shorter or part-time option, check directly with RMIT for their enrolment policies. International students must maintain a full-time study load to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma of Communication Design is A$40,320 for the full program, with additional non-tuition fees of A$373, bringing the estimated total to A$40,693. These fees are set by RMIT and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: fees are subject to change and are indicative only – always confirm with RMIT before applying. Not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. For current fees, visit RMIT's website. International students should budget for additional expenses: weekly rent in Melbourne averages A$250–A$450, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport (Myki) about A$50–A$70 per week. HeadStart Academy provides this as a guide only.
Entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Communication Design are set by RMIT. As a general guide for this level, you will need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and a completed bachelor's degree in a related field or significant professional experience. Some applicants may require a portfolio or interview. RMIT may offer pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements – check their website for details. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. HeadStart Academy advises you to review the specific requirements on the provider's website or contact RMIT's admissions team for personalised guidance.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While you may have opportunities for internships or industry projects as part of your studies, no formal work placement is required to complete the Graduate Diploma. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs, but remember that work is not part of the academic curriculum.
The Graduate Diploma of Communication Design is delivered at RMIT University – 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne, VIC. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 180,000 international students and more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering creative arts courses. The campus is centrally located with easy access to public transport (trains, trams, buses). Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$300–A$450 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city. The city boasts a vibrant arts and design scene, with galleries, studios, and design agencies providing rich networking opportunities. Studying in Melbourne offers a unique cultural experience alongside quality education.
To study this Graduate Diploma in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring refund and grievance procedures. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent or visiting the Department of Home Affairs for tailored advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities and a global hub for creative industries. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Melbourne alone hosts numerous institutions offering design courses. The city's diverse population, thriving arts scene, and strong economy make it an ideal location for studying communication design. Students benefit from access to major design events, networking opportunities, and a multicultural environment. Consider factors like climate (temperate with four seasons), cost of living (higher than regional areas but lower than Sydney), and public transport. HeadStart Academy's data shows that Melbourne has over 30 providers offering creative arts courses, making it a competitive and dynamic study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Communication Design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Creative Arts), and location (Melbourne). Compare RMIT with other providers. 2. **Apply directly to RMIT** – Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications, portfolio). Submit your application through RMIT's online portal before the deadline. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once RMIT issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence.
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Graduate Diploma of Communication Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.