Bachelor of Design and Visual Communication (CRICOS course code 105482D) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 3 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international students. As part of HeadStart Academy's free resource, we provide accurate data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F) is a private institution offering this qualification in the field of Graphic and Design Studies. With 6 delivery locations across Australia, including Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney, students have flexibility to choose their campus. The indicative total cost is A$85,249, covering tuition and non-tuition fees. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are separate. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act. Whether you are drawn to visual communication, design thinking, or digital media, this degree provides a pathway to creative careers. HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options in Australia by providing reliable CRICOS data and student visa guidance. Read on for full details about this course, including entry requirements, work component, and how to apply.
This course falls under the field of Graphic and Design Studies (100599), within the Creative Arts broad field. At the Bachelor Degree level, students typically develop advanced knowledge and skills in visual communication, design theory, digital media, typography, branding, and user experience. The curriculum combines creative exploration with practical application, preparing graduates for roles in graphic design, advertising, web design, and multimedia production. SAE Institute emphasises hands-on learning with industry-standard software and equipment. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed directly with the provider, graduates can expect to build a portfolio showcasing their ability to solve visual problems and communicate ideas effectively. This program also fosters critical thinking, project management, and collaboration skills essential for the creative industries.
The Bachelor of Design and Visual Communication is delivered over 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged award. Students are expected to study full-time to meet student visa requirements. The course does not include foundation studies; however, SAE Institute may offer pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry criteria – check their website or contact them for details.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$83,880, with non-tuition fees of A$1,369, giving an estimated total of A$85,249. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Always confirm current fees directly with SAE Institute at www.sae.edu.au. Note that this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for these additional costs: OSHC (approximately A$500–700 per year), living costs (the Department of Home Affairs recommends at least A$21,041 per year), and the student visa application fee (currently A$1,600). SAE Institute may offer payment plans or scholarships – inquire directly.
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent test). Academic prerequisites include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some prior study in design or arts may be beneficial but not always required. SAE Institute assesses each application individually; they may consider relevant work experience or a portfolio. If you do not meet direct entry, ask about foundation or pathway programs. Always refer to the provider's official page for the most current entry requirements.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component: 12 weeks of industry placement or internship, averaging 6.7 hours per week (approximately 80 total hours). This practical experience allows students to apply design skills in real-world settings, build professional networks, and enhance employability. Placements may be in design studios, advertising agencies, or corporate communication departments. The timing and structure of the work component vary; SAE Institute's careers team assists with placement opportunities.
This course is delivered at six SAE Institute 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 - SAE Sydney, Chippendale, NSW Each campus is located in a major city or creative hub, providing access to vibrant arts scenes and industry connections. For example, Melbourne's campus is near the city centre with excellent public transport; Sydney's Chippendale location is close to tech startups and design firms. Students should consider factors like living costs, climate, and lifestyle when choosing a campus. Adelaide offers lower living costs (weekly rent ~A$200–300 vs. Sydney ~A$300–500), while Byron Bay provides a coastal lifestyle but limited public transport.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time on campus. The visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and valid OSHC. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating genuine intention to study and return home. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Design and Visual Communication at SAE Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by Bachelor Degree, Creative Arts, and your preferred city. Confirm SAE Institute's CRICOS registration (00312F). 2. Apply directly to SAE Institute – meet entry requirements (English test, academic documents), submit your application online at www.sae.edu.au. Deadlines vary; apply early. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – lodge a valid visa application with the CoE, OSHC, and evidence of financial capacity.
Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ CRICOS-registered providers, but choosing the right design degree requires careful thought. Consider the following: - Career outcomes: Graphic design graduates work in advertising, publishing, digital media, UX/UI, and branding. Check if the course includes industry connections. - Location: Campuses in creative hubs (Melbourne, Sydney) offer more internship opportunities but higher living costs. Regional campuses (Byron Bay) may have lower costs but fewer local employers. - Accreditation: The course is a CRICOS-registered Bachelor Degree, but check if it leads to professional membership like the Design Institute of Australia. - Portfolio development: A strong portfolio is key; ensure the curriculum emphasises project-based learning. - Student support: International student services, English language support, and career guidance vary by provider. SAE Institute offers dedicated support. Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses and read student reviews.
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Bachelor of Design and Visual Communication 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.