Certificate IV in Screen and Media (CRICOS course code 111350K) is a Certificate IV delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 1 year. This nationally accredited qualification (CUA41220) is designed for students who want to build foundational skills in screen and media production, including video, audio, and digital content creation. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00724G), international students can study this program on a Student visa (Subclass 500) at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus in Victoria. The course covers practical and theoretical aspects of the creative industries, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in film, television, and online media. With Australia's growing screen and media sector, this qualification opens doors to diverse career paths. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This qualification sits within the field of Audio Visual Studies (100701) under Communication and Media Studies. Students develop skills in using industry-standard equipment and software for screen production, including camera operation, lighting, sound recording, and editing. The course covers pre-production planning, production workflows, and post-production techniques. Graduates typically gain competencies in teamwork, creative problem-solving, and project management specific to screen and media projects. While the exact syllabus is set by Melbourne Polytechnic, the course generally includes units on scriptwriting, visual storytelling, and digital media production. This foundation prepares students for further study or entry-level positions in the screen and media industry.
The Certificate IV in Screen and Media has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Students attend classes full-time at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus. The course structure typically includes a mix of classroom learning, practical workshops, and project-based assessments. As an international student on a Student visa, you must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
Tuition fees for this course are A$10,640 (indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register). There are no compulsory non-tuition fees listed, making the estimated total cost A$10,640. Please note: this figure does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Victoria are estimated at A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs 2026). Always confirm current fees directly with Melbourne Polytechnic on their website, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only.
For international students, Melbourne Polytechnic requires an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) and be at least 18 years old. Some prior knowledge in media or arts may be beneficial but is not mandatory. The provider may also assess your suitability through an interview or portfolio. Foundation and pathway options are available through Melbourne Polytechnic's partner programs — check with the institution for details. Always meet the specific entry requirements set by the provider before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. 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 part-time experience in related fields.
The course is delivered at Melbourne Polytechnic's Fairfield Campus, located in Fairfield, Victoria (VIC). Fairfield is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 10 km from the city centre. The campus is accessible by public transport, including trains and buses. Melbourne has a large international student population (over 200,000) and offers a vibrant creative scene. When choosing a location, consider living costs: indicative weekly rent in Melbourne is A$350–A$500 for shared accommodation, with groceries around A$100–A$150 and public transport capped at A$10 per day. The Fairfield area is known for its parklands and community feel.
Before enrolling, consider your career goals: this qualification leads to roles such as camera operator, video editor, production assistant, or social media content creator. The screen and media industry in Australia is competitive but growing, particularly in Melbourne which hosts major film and television studios. Check if the course aligns with your intended pathway — further study at Diploma or Advanced Diploma level is an option. Also consider that practical skills and a portfolio are key for employment. As this course is CRICOS-registered, you benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student support. HeadStart Academy recommends researching provider ratings and graduate outcomes.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. On a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for your individual situation.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Screen and Media at Melbourne Polytechnic: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use the official CRICOS register to verify that Melbourne Polytechnic (CRICOS 00724G) is registered to deliver this course. Compare with other providers offering similar qualifications. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – submit an application to Melbourne Polytechnic meeting their entry requirements, including English language test scores (IELTS 5.0-5.5) and academic transcripts. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you navigate this process.
Ready to start your screen and media journey? Visit Melbourne Polytechnic's website for the latest fees, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
Certificate IV in Screen and Media is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. 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.