Diploma of Screen and Media (CRICOS course code 108455E) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification, under the VET national code CUA51020, is designed for international students seeking to build foundational skills in screen and media production. Hosted at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus, this course offers hands-on training in audio-visual studies – part of the broader field of Creative Arts (Field 10). With Australia’s growing screen industry, this diploma opens doors to roles in film, television, and digital media. As a CRICOS-registered provider, TAFE SA ensures compliance with ESOS Act protections, giving you confidence in your study journey. Below, we break down fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and visa essentials to help you decide if this course fits your goals.
Diploma of Screen and Media (CRICOS course code 108455E) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and falls under the field of education: 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1007 - Communication and Media Studies, with a focus on 100701 - Audio Visual Studies. The VET national code is CUA51020. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification – no dual or foundation studies included. With a duration of 52 weeks, it provides a comprehensive introduction to screen and media production. TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) is a government provider, ensuring high standards of education and student support. The indicative tuition fee is A$21,365, with no additional non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$21,365. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Always confirm current fees with TAFE SA directly as fees are subject to change.
In this Diploma of Screen and Media, you will gain practical and theoretical knowledge in audio-visual studies. The curriculum typically covers areas such as film production, video editing, sound design, scriptwriting, and digital media creation. At AQF Level 5, graduates develop specialised skills and a broad understanding of the screen industry, preparing them for roles such as production assistant, camera operator, or editor. While specific units are set by TAFE SA, the field of Audio Visual Studies emphasises both creative expression and technical proficiency. You'll learn to operate industry-standard equipment, manage production workflows, and collaborate in team environments. This course also builds foundational knowledge in media ethics and storytelling, essential for any screen media career.
The Diploma of Screen and Media is structured over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification – no dual award. Full-time study is typical, and students are expected to attend classes at the Adelaide City Campus. TAFE SA may offer flexible delivery modes, but this course does not include a mandatory work component. For time management, allocate around 20-25 hours per week for classes and independent study. The duration is fixed for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500), ensuring compliance with visa conditions.
Course fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Diploma of Screen and Media, TAFE SA charges: Tuition fee: A$21,365; Non-tuition fee: A$0; Estimated total: A$21,365. This amount covers tuition only. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600-A$900 per year depending on provider – living expenses (estimated A$21,041 per year for a single student as per Department of Home Affairs 2024-25), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always visit TAFE SA's website at http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international for the most current fee schedule.
Entry to this Diploma requires an IELTS overall score of 5.5-6.0 (equivalent English proficiency accepted, e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. No foundation or pathway programs are offered within this course. TAFE SA may assess prior qualifications or work experience. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have sufficient financial capacity. For precise entry requirements, consult TAFE SA's international admissions page.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain work experience alongside your studies in Adelaide's growing creative industry.
Diploma of Screen and Media is delivered at TAFE SA's Adelaide City Campus, located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant capital city with a population of over 1.3 million, known for its affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is around A$250-A$350, with groceries and transport adding ~A$100 per week. The campus is easily accessible via public transport (buses, trams, trains) with a student concession fare. Adelaide hosts many registered providers – over 50 CRICOS-registered institutions – offering a range of courses in creative arts. The city's cultural festivals and film industry make it an ideal location for screen and media students.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion must be satisfied, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily. You also need to show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personal visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Screen and Media at TAFE SA: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Filter by course level, field, and city. Use HeadStart Academy's provider directory to compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application to TAFE SA including qualifications, English test results, and any required documents. Check application deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, TAFE SA will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Adelaide offers a balanced lifestyle for international students. With lower living costs than eastern capitals, it attracts many students in creative fields. The city hosts major festivals like the Adelaide Film Festival, providing networking opportunities. Public transport is student-friendly, and the city has a safe, welcoming atmosphere. Consider your preferences for climate, culture, and career connections when choosing Adelaide for your screen and media studies. For more insights, explore our guide to studying in South Australia.
Start your application for Diploma of Screen and Media at TAFE SA – visit their website or contact admissions for the latest intake dates.
Diploma of Screen and Media is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.