Graduate Certificate of Creative Writing (CRICOS course code 106711K) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This course is designed for international students who want to enhance their creative writing skills at a graduate level, focusing on written communication within the field of Creative Arts (Field of Education 100705 - Written Communication). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03392K), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Every institution and course listed on HeadStart Academy is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have reliable information to make informed decisions. Whether you aspire to become a novelist, scriptwriter, or content creator, this graduate certificate provides a foundation in narrative techniques, editing, and publishing pathways. Australian College of the Arts (Collarts) delivers this program across three campuses in Melbourne: Collingwood and Fitzroy. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, it's essential to choose a course that aligns with your career goals and visa requirements. This page covers fees, entry requirements, work rights, and the application process—all tailored to international students.
This course falls under the field of Written Communication (100705) within Creative Arts (10). At the Graduate Certificate level (AQF Level 8), students typically develop advanced skills in creative writing, including narrative structure, character development, dialogue, editing, and publishing preparation. They explore various genres such as fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, and scriptwriting. The program emphasises critical thinking and creative problem-solving, preparing graduates for roles in publishing, media, advertising, or further academic study. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the CRICOS field description indicates a focus on professional writing and communication. Students should expect a combination of workshops, critiques, and project-based assessments.
The Graduate Certificate of Creative Writing is a 20-week full-time program (20 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation components. This intensive duration is typical for graduate certificates, allowing students to gain focused expertise in a short timeframe. International students should plan their study schedule accordingly, noting that full-time enrolment is usually required for student visa holders.
Indicative tuition fee is A$17,040 for the entire program, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$17,040. Please note that these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd and are subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, visit the provider's website at www.collarts.edu.au. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$500–700 per year for a single student — living expenses (Melbourne averages A$450–600 per week covering rent, groceries, and transport), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Under the ESOS Act, international students have rights regarding fee refunds; always review the provider's refund policy.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Graduate Certificate, applicants generally need a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent. Australian College of the Arts may also consider relevant work experience or a portfolio. Foundation or pathway options are not explicitly listed for this course; prospective students should contact the provider for specific entry criteria and alternative entry routes. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, meeting English proficiency is mandatory for a Student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or work experience required to complete the Graduate Certificate of Creative Writing. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Australian College of the Arts delivers this course at three locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood VIC; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy VIC. All campuses are within the inner northern suburbs of Melbourne, easily accessible by public transport (trams, trains, and buses). Collingwood and Fitzroy are known for their vibrant arts scene, cafes, and creative industries. Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and offers a high quality of life. Indicative weekly living costs in Melbourne: shared accommodation A$200–400, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$40–60.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This 20-week course may not qualify for post-study work rights; check with the Department of Home Affairs. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses — filter by Graduate Certificate, Creative Writing, and Victoria. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (Australian College of the Arts, CRICOS 03392K). Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Visit www.collarts.edu.au to review entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and a personal statement. Submit your application before the deadline. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa. Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs, pay the application fee, and arrange OSHC. Ensure you meet all GTE and financial requirements. Start your journey with HeadStart Academy.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is Australia's cultural capital, hosting major literary festivals like the Melbourne Writers Festival and a thriving publishing industry. The state has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. For creative writing students, Melbourne offers a rich environment with bookshops, writing workshops, and creative networks. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, and public transport is reliable. However, consider the climate (cool winters, variable weather) and your personal preferences. If you value a vibrant arts scene and diverse community, Victoria is an excellent choice. HeadStart Academy helps you explore all options across Australia, free of charge.
Below are common questions about this course. For more details, use the internal links or contact the provider.
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Graduate Certificate of Creative Writing 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.