Diploma of Graphic Design (CRICOS course code 105825H) is a Diploma delivered by LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), guaranteeing that the institution and course meet Australian Government standards for quality and student welfare. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it falls under the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies, equipping students with creative and technical skills in visual communication. The indicative tuition is A$19,200, with no additional non-tuition fees, though students should budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa costs. English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall is typically expected. The course is delivered at 138 Cromwell St, Collingwood VIC, a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne known for its arts and culture scene. LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. (CRICOS 03157K) is a private provider focused on visual arts and design. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, international students have a wealth of options. This Diploma offers a pathway to a career in graphic design or further study.
The Diploma of Graphic Design (CRICOS 105825H) focuses on Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501), a broad field encompassing visual communication, digital media, and design thinking. At AQF Level 5, students typically learn to apply graphic design principles to create visual solutions for print and digital media. Topics often include design history, colour theory, typography, page layout, image manipulation, and branding. Students may also explore web design, motion graphics, and user experience (UX) basics. This course aims to develop practical skills using industry-standard software and prepare graduates for entry-level positions in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, or in-house creative departments. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets national standards. Graduates may also use this Diploma as a stepping stone to a Bachelor of Design or related degree.
This Diploma is structured for full-time study over 1 year (52 weeks as per the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation components. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are required to maintain full-time enrolment, typically meaning 20–25 contact hours per week. The course is delivered at the Collingwood campus through a combination of lectures, workshops, and studio sessions. Attendance is monitored to meet visa requirements. This compact duration makes it an excellent option for students who want to enter the graphic design workforce quickly or use the Diploma as a pathway to a Bachelor's degree. Always confirm the exact study mode (e.g., trimester or semester-based) with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Graphic Design is A$19,200 for the full course. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, meaning there are no compulsory additional charges for materials or services. However, students should budget for other costs: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$600–$1,000 per year; living expenses (rent, food, transport), which in Melbourne average around A$500–$700 per week; and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). These are not included in the course fee. Please note that fees are set by LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. and are subject to change — always visit www.lcad.edu.au for the most current information. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Entry into the Diploma of Graphic Design typically requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent qualification. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, usually with an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Some providers may require a portfolio of creative work or an interview. Since this is a Diploma (AQF Level 5), prior study in a related field is not mandatory but may be beneficial. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as English language courses may be available — check with LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. directly. Note that entry requirements are determined by the institution and may vary. Always confirm with the provider before applying. For visa purposes, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and have sufficient financial capacity.
This course has no mandatory work component. This means you are not required to complete an internship, work placement, or industry experience as part of your studies. However, as a student visa holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Working can help you gain local experience and offset living costs, but it should not interfere with your studies. This structure allows students to dedicate their time fully to developing design skills, or to take on part-time work in the creative industry alongside their studies.
This course is delivered solely at 138 Cromwell St, Collingwood VIC — a suburb of Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city known for its thriving arts scene. Collingwood is located just 3 km from the Melbourne CBD and is well-served by public transport (trams and buses). The area is a hub for creative industries, with numerous galleries, design studios, and co-working spaces. Melbourne is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, making it a top destination for international students. Living costs in Melbourne are relatively high: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$60. The city's student population exceeds 250,000, creating a diverse and welcoming environment. Studying in Collingwood puts you at the centre of Melbourne’s creative economy, with networking opportunities and inspiration at every corner.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies. Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (which this course is), maintaining full-time enrolment, providing evidence of English proficiency, and demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You must also have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Student visa holders have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members (if they accompany you) may also be eligible to work. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia. Note: visa conditions and requirements are subject to change — always check the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Collingwood's vibrant arts scene offers unmatched inspiration for graphic design students, but it also comes with high competition. Melbourne is a major creative hub, hosting numerous design agencies, start-ups, and cultural events. Students should be prepared to network actively and build a strong portfolio. The cost of living in Collingwood is above the Australian average, though sharing accommodation can reduce expenses. Public transport is excellent, with frequent trams connecting to the city and other suburbs. Before enrolling, consider your career goals: the Diploma provides a solid foundation, but many graphic design roles require a Bachelor's degree or extensive experience. Additionally, check if the course includes software training in industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite. Finally, ensure you understand the ESOS Act protections that safeguard international students' rights, including tuition refund policies and complaint mechanisms.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. (CRICOS 03157K) and this course (105825H) meet your needs. 2. Apply directly to the institution: Visit www.lcad.edu.au to check entry requirements, deadlines, and submit your application. You may need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and a portfolio. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your student visa: If accepted, the institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet all GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements. For detailed visa guidance, refer to our Student Visa Subclass 500 resource.
Ready to start your graphic design journey? Visit LaTrobe International Galleries Pty. Ltd. at www.lcad.edu.au to apply today.
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Diploma of Graphic Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at LaTrobe International Galleries 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.