Certificate IV in Design (CRICOS course code 105790C) is a Certificate IV delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This course is designed for students who want to build foundational skills in graphic design, digital media, and visual communication. It is listed under the field of Graphic and Design Studies (n.e.c.) and provides a pathway to further study or entry-level roles in the creative industries. Delivered at the North Metropolitan TAFE Perth Campus in Northbridge, Western Australia, this program is ideal for international students seeking a hands-on, industry-relevant qualification in a vibrant city known for its arts and culture scene. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00020G), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy helps you navigate the CRICOS register to find courses like this one, with over 26,000 courses available across Australia.
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This qualification falls under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 4 and focuses on developing technical and creative skills in design. Students typically learn to produce graphic designs, use industry-standard software, apply design principles, and manage creative projects. The course covers areas such as typography, colour theory, digital illustration, layout design, and branding. Graduates may pursue roles as junior graphic designers, design assistants, or continue with a Diploma of Design. The exact subjects are set by the provider; contact Department of Training and Workforce Development for the current syllabus. As a field of education under Creative Arts (1005 - Graphic and Design Studies), this course equips students with practical skills valued in Australia's creative economy.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged program). No foundation studies component is attached. Students attend classes at the North Metropolitan TAFE Perth Campus. For details on timetables and delivery modes, check the provider's website. The CRICOS registration ensures the course meets national standards for international students.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,140, with non-tuition fees of A$683, making an estimated total of A$13,823. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always verify current fees directly with the Department of Training and Workforce Development. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. International students in Perth should budget for living costs of approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Perth's cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students.
Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. For international students, an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall is generally required. Some prior study in design or visual arts may be beneficial. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as ELICOS may be available. Refer to the provider for specific academic and English requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
No work component — This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may undertake part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holidays) subject to visa conditions. This is a standard condition for Student visa (Subclass 500) holders.
This course is delivered at North Metropolitan TAFE, Perth Campus in Northbridge, WA. Northbridge is a central suburb of Perth, known for its cultural precinct and easy access to public transport. Perth has over 80 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with shared rentals averaging A$200–300 per week. The campus is well-served by buses and trains, making it accessible for international students.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity requirements must be demonstrated. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance but does not offer migration advice.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like Certificate IV in Design. All providers on our site are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English proficiency, and application deadlines at Department of Training and Workforce Development. Submit your application with supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs.
Perth offers a growing creative industry with opportunities in design, media, and arts. The city is home to numerous galleries, design studios, and cultural events. Studying at North Metropolitan TAFE places you in the heart of Northbridge, close to the Perth Cultural Centre. With a lower cost of living compared to eastern capitals, Perth is an attractive option for international students. Consider your career goals and lifestyle preferences—Perth’s relaxed outdoor lifestyle and strong economy make it a top choice. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offer more than 26,000 courses, so explore your options with HeadStart Academy.
Ready to study design in Perth? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and start your application today.
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Certificate IV in Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.