Diploma of Design (CRICOS course code 111385K) is a Diploma delivered by Queensland Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking a pathway into the creative arts industry, with a focus on graphic and design studies at AQF Level 5. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 01737F), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Students can choose to study at either the Brisbane or Gold Coast campus, both located at Griffith University campuses. The indicative tuition fee is A$38,950, with additional non-tuition costs of A$225. This page provides comprehensive information about the course structure, entry requirements, fees, visa conditions, and application process to help you make an informed decision about studying design in Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Diploma of Design (CRICOS course code 111385K) is a Diploma delivered by Queensland Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. The course falls under the field of 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies, and is classified as AQF Level 5 Diploma. This qualification is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills in graphic arts and design studies, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in the creative industries. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). There is no mandatory work component. Students are expected to complete 52 weeks of full-time study. The course is available at two campuses: QIBT at Griffith University Brisbane Campus in Brisbane, QLD, and QIBT at Griffith University Gold Coast Campus in SOUTHPORT, QLD. Being CRICOS-registered ensures that international students are protected under the ESOS Act and can access Australia's student visa framework.
As a Diploma of Design in the field of Graphic and Design Studies (100501), students typically explore principles of visual communication, typography, colour theory, digital imaging, and design software. The curriculum at this level emphasises practical skills and theoretical understanding, enabling graduates to create design solutions for print and digital media. While specific subject titles are set by the provider, students can expect to engage in project-based learning that builds a portfolio of work. This qualification provides a pathway to higher education, such as a Bachelor of Design, or entry-level roles like junior graphic designer or digital artist. The course aligns with industry standards and prepares students to work in advertising, publishing, web design, and other creative fields.
The Diploma of Design runs for 52 weeks (1 year) as per the CRICOS register. It is a full-time course delivered face-to-face at the Brisbane and Gold Coast campuses. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; no dual awards are offered. There are no foundation studies embedded in this program. Students are expected to attend classes during standard academic terms, with breaks aligning with the Australian academic calendar. The course structure may include lectures, tutorials, workshops, and self-directed study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Design at Queensland Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd is A$38,950 for the entire program. In addition, non-tuition fees of A$225 are listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$39,175. These fees are set by the provider and are subject to change. Always check the official website (www.griffithcollege.edu.au) for current fees and any scholarships. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. For single students, OSHC typically costs several hundred dollars per year, and living costs in Brisbane or Gold Coast range from A$20,000 to A$25,000 annually. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel.
International students must demonstrate English proficiency, typically an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification, with possible prerequisite subjects in arts or design. No foundation course is included; however, pathway options may be available through the provider. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants should check specific academic and portfolio requirements with Queensland Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd directly. English test results must be valid (usually within two years). Some applicants may need to complete a preliminary English language course if scores fall below requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must not compromise their study commitments. Any work experience or internships would be optional and at the student's discretion.
The Diploma of Design is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: QIBT at Griffith University Brisbane Campus, located in the inner-city suburb of Brisbane, and QIBT at Griffith University Gold Coast Campus, situated in SOUTHPORT on the Gold Coast. Brisbane, the state capital, is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The Gold Coast is a major coastal city with a growing education sector, known for its lifestyle and student-friendly environment. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Brisbane offers a cost of living slightly lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300. The Gold Coast is similarly affordable. Students should consider campus location when choosing their preferred study destination.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, maintaining genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. All visa applications are subject to assessment by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Design at Queensland Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers - Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Creative Arts), and city (Brisbane or Gold Coast) on HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register. Ensure the provider (01737F) is still registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution - Visit www.griffithcollege.edu.au to review entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and required documents (academic transcripts, portfolio if needed). Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) - Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE, which you need to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Queensland offers two vibrant study destinations for design students. Brisbane, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, has a strong creative industry presence, including advertising agencies, graphic design studios, and digital media companies. The cost of living is moderate: weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$220–A$300, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport with student discounts is affordable. The Gold Coast, known for its lifestyle, hosts several universities and colleges, and has a growing design sector, particularly in digital and multimedia. Weekly rent is slightly higher near the beach, averaging A$250–A$350. Both cities have excellent public transport links to campuses. Consider your personal preferences: Brisbane offers a bustling city atmosphere, while the Gold Coast combines study with a relaxed coastal environment. Both are safe and welcoming to international students.
Start your application for Diploma of Design at QIBT today. Visit the provider's website for current fees and entry requirements.
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Diploma of Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Queensland Institute of Business and Technology 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.