Diploma of Visual Arts (CRICOS course code 110852G) is a Diploma delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 49 weeks (~11 months). This CRICOS-registered course (CUA51120) is designed for international students seeking to develop advanced skills in visual arts practice, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Delivered at TAFE NSW St George in Kogarah, NSW, the program combines studio-based learning with theoretical studies, preparing graduates for roles in the creative industries or further study at degree level. As a government-owned provider, TAFE NSW offers quality assurance under ESOS Act protections, ensuring international student rights. The indicative tuition fee is A$16,100, with no mandatory work component. Entry requires IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, plus prior qualifications. This page provides detailed information on curriculum, fees, location, and visa pathways, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Diploma of Visual Arts (CRICOS course code 110852G) is a Diploma delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 49 weeks (~11 months). This program falls under the field of Creative Arts (10) with a specialisation in Visual Arts and Crafts (100300). It is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual qualification. The VET national code is CUA51120. Language of instruction is English. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00591E), it meets Australian Government standards for enrolling international students. TAFE NSW, a government provider, has a long history of vocational education and is one of over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students across Australia. The course does not include a work component, but students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight under student visa conditions. Graduates may proceed to bachelor degrees in visual arts or work as practising artists, gallery assistants, or community arts workers.
The Diploma of Visual Arts (CUA51120) provides broad skills in visual arts practice. Students explore creative processes, visual communication, and technical production across media such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and digital imaging. The curriculum covers concept development, art history and theory, professional practice, and portfolio building. With 49 weeks of full-time study, learners gain hands-on studio experience and critical analysis skills. Typical learning outcomes include: applying creative thinking techniques, selecting and using materials safely, presenting artwork in exhibitions, and interpreting visual culture. Graduates achieve AQF Level 5 competency, equipping them for employment or articulation into higher education. TAFE NSW's industry-connected teachers ensure practice-based learning aligned with current creative sector needs.
The Diploma of Visual Arts runs for 49 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This duration includes course delivery and scheduled breaks. The program is delivered full-time in English, face-to-face at TAFE NSW St George campus in Kogarah, NSW. There is no online, part-time, or accelerated option for international students. It is a single qualification (no combined degree or foundation pathway). Classes typically operate Monday to Friday during standard business hours. The campus is accessible by public transport, including trains and buses from Sydney CBD (approx. 30 minutes). Kogarah is a suburb in southern Sydney with a diverse student population and moderate living costs.
Indicative fees, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: Tuition fee: A$16,100; Non-tuition fees: A$0; Estimated total course cost: A$16,100. These fees are subject to change and set by TAFE NSW – always check the provider's website (https://www.tafensw.edu.au/international) for current fee schedules. The tuition covers tuition, learning materials, and access to studios. Students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$700 per year for single cover – plus living expenses. According to the Department of Home Affairs, international students need at least A$29,710 per year for living costs (from July 2026), including rent, food, and transport. In Sydney, weekly rent for a share house is around A$300–A$500, with groceries ~A$80–A$150 and public transport ~A$50–A$70. The visa application charge is A$1,600. These are additional costs not included in the course fee.
TAFE NSW sets specific entry requirements for the Diploma of Visual Arts. General guidance from the CRICOS register indicates an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants typically need to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Some providers may require a portfolio or prior study in art. Foundation or pathway options are available for students who do not meet academic or English requirements – contact TAFE NSW for bridging programs or ELICOS. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend confirming entry criteria directly with the institution. All listed providers, including TAFE NSW, are CRICOS-registered and must adhere to Australian standards for international student admissions.
This course includes no work component. The CRICOS register indicates 'No work component' for Diploma of Visual Arts (110852G). Therefore, the program is entirely classroom and studio-based, without mandatory industry placement or work experience hours. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work must not interfere with study, and students must maintain satisfactory course progress. Paid work is not part of the curriculum, but students may seek part-time employment in hospitality, retail, or casual art-related jobs to supplement income.
This course is delivered at TAFE NSW St George at KOGARAH, NSW. Kogarah is a suburb in the St George area, approximately 14 kilometres south of Sydney CBD. The campus is well-served by Kogarah railway station (T4 line), frequent bus services, and ample cycling paths. The location offers a mix of residential and commercial zones, with reasonable living costs compared to the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people, with more than 200,000 international students. It has around 20 CRICOS-registered TAFE campuses. NSW has over 600 CRICOS providers overall. The St George area includes parks, galleries, and cultural venues, providing inspiration for visual arts students.
International students enrolled in Diploma of Visual Arts must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: (1) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE NSW; (2) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment; (3) sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel); (4) health insurance (OSHC) for the course duration; (5) English proficiency (if required). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependent family members have work rights as per visa conditions. It is mandatory to maintain enrolment, attendance, and course progress. After course completion, students may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if eligible. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for Diploma of Visual Arts at Technical and Further Education Commission is a three-step process:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that TAFE NSW (CRICOS 00591E) and course 110852G are current. Compare courses by level, field, and city. HeadStart Academy simplifies this with searchable data.
**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit TAFE NSW's International website (https://www.tafensw.edu.au/international). Submit your application with supporting documents: academic transcripts, English test (IELTS 5.5–6.0), portfolio (if required), passport copy. Meet application deadlines (typically 8–12 weeks before intake). Pay application fee if applicable.
**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – If accepted, TAFE NSW issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via ImmiAccount. Submit health insurance (OSHC), financial evidence, GTE statement. Wait for visa grant. Then plan your travel and accommodation. HeadStart Academy provides this guide as a free resource – always confirm details with the provider and Home Affairs.
Sydney offers a vibrant arts scene with galleries, museums, and festivals. International students thrive in its multicultural environment. However, living costs are higher than other Australian cities: weekly rent A$300–$500, transport capped at A$50 weekly (Opal card). Many visual arts students choose Sydney for its creative communities. TAFE NSW St George is in a suburban area, quieter than the CBD but with good facilities. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers – you may also explore TAFE campuses in regional NSW for lower living costs. This is a personal decision; research thoroughly before applying.
Visual arts at diploma level requires dedication to studio practice. Ask: Does the course align with your career goals? Are you ready to present a portfolio? Have you researched the local art job market? Check if the provider offers articulation to university degrees or industry connections. Also, consider visa conditions – no work component, but study hours are 20+ per week. You must attend 80% of classes. The field of Creative Arts offers many diplomas, but the Diploma of Visual Arts (110852G) focuses on traditional and digital techniques. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses from 1,556 CRICOS providers. Remember, ESOS protections apply – your tuition fees are protected if the provider fails. Always use official data.
Ready to start your visual arts journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered diploma courses in NSW at HeadStart Academy – your free, data-driven resource for studying in Australia.
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Diploma of Visual Arts is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.