Diploma of Digital and Social Media (CRICOS course code 104416M) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification at AQF Level 5 in Creative Arts and Communication and Media Studies prepares students for roles in digital communication, social media management, content creation, and marketing. The course is CRICOS-registered, enabling international students to study on a Student visa (Subclass 500) in Melbourne, Victoria. Students benefit from hands-on learning across three campuses in Collingwood and Fitzroy, with access to industry-standard facilities. Indicative tuition is A$29,080, with no mandatory work component. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. For complete details, continue reading below.
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The Diploma of Digital and Social Media (CRICOS 104416M) is a one-year (52-week) program at AQF Level 5, offered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03392K), a private higher education provider trading as Collarts. The course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10) — Communication and Media Studies (1007), covering topics such as content strategy, social media analytics, digital storytelling, and campaign management. Graduates are equipped for entry-level roles in the digital media industry or further study. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation stream). It holds CRICOS registration, which means it meets Australian Government standards for international student programs.
While specific syllabi are set by the provider, a Diploma at this level typically covers foundational and applied skills in creative and media disciplines. In the field of Communication and Media Studies, students can expect to develop practical skills in writing for digital platforms, visual communication, audience analysis, and project management. The curriculum often includes real-world briefs and portfolio-building activities. Collarts emphasises industry-integrated learning, so students may engage with live projects and guest lectures from professionals. This course is designed to bridge creative thinking with strategic digital execution, preparing graduates for the evolving media landscape.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Study is full-time, with all instruction in English. It is a single qualification — no dual or foundation components. Classes are delivered on-campus across three locations in the Melbourne suburbs of Collingwood and Fitzroy, providing an immersive learning environment. Students should expect a mix of lectures, workshops, and practical sessions. The program does not include a mandatory work component, but students may seek part-time work subject to their visa conditions.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Digital and Social Media are as follows: - Tuition: A$29,080 - Non-tuition fees: A$0 - Estimated total: A$29,080 These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, food, and transport in Melbourne), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with the provider via their website www.collarts.edu.au. ESOS protections ensure you receive a refund if the course is not delivered as promised.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) for Diploma-level study. Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some providers may require a portfolio or interview. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry — check with Collarts directly. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. For specific requirements, refer to the institution's admissions team.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must not compromise their study obligations. For work rights advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs.
The course is delivered at three campuses in Melbourne's inner north: - 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood, VIC - 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood, VIC - Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy, VIC All campuses are within the City of Yarra, known for its creative and cultural scene. Collingwood and Fitzroy are well-served by public transport (trams, buses, trains) and offer a vibrant student lifestyle with many cafes, galleries, and coworking spaces. Melbourne is home to over 400,000 international students and has a rich ecosystem of CRICOS-registered providers (over 1,500 nationally offering 26,000+ courses).
To study this course internationally, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include: - Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement - Sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC - English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0) - OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of stay Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term. Visa conditions, including the GTE, are assessed by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa guidance, consult a MARA-registered agent. All courses listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a hub for media and creative industries. With over 300,000 international students, it offers a diverse and welcoming environment. When choosing this course, consider: the cost of living (average weekly rent for a share house in inner suburbs is A$250–350; public transport is A$45 per week with a student concession), the proximity of campuses to public transport, and the reputation of the provider. Collarts specialises in creative arts and has strong industry connections. Also, think about your career goals — a Diploma can lead to roles like social media coordinator, content marketer, or digital strategist. Further study (e.g., a Bachelor) may expand opportunities. Always verify CRICOS registration before applying.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Digital and Social Media at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use CRICOS search tools or HeadStart Academy to find courses. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Creative Arts), and location (Melbourne). Confirm the provider's CRICOS code (03392K). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit www.collarts.edu.au to check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, English test results, personal statement). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Collarts will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and evidence of funds. For visa help, consult a MARA agent.
Ready to start your creative career? Explore this course on CRICOS or visit the provider's website to apply.
View the full Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Digital and Social Media is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts 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.