Graduate Certificate of Design (CRICOS course code 114513E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited over 35 weeks (~8 months). This course sits within the field of Graphic and Design Studies (10 - Creative Arts, 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies, 100501 - Graphic Arts and Design Studies) and is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their design skills or pivot into a design career. As a CRICOS-registered program (CRICOS provider code 03389E), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring you benefit from the protections of the ESOS Act. At HeadStart Academy, we source all course data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide you with trustworthy, up-to-date information—free from referral fees or commissions. Whether you're aiming to enhance your portfolio, explore design thinking, or prepare for further study, this course offers a structured pathway in a creative and supportive learning environment.
The Graduate Certificate of Design (CRICOS 114513E) is an AQF Level 8 qualification delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited, a private institution with a strong focus on industry-connected learning. The course spans 35 weeks (approximately 8 months) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a mandatory work component, though you may choose to seek part-time work during your studies within visa limits. The curriculum covers core principles of graphic and design studies, including design theory, visual communication, and digital tools, preparing you for roles in graphic design, branding, or user experience. Torrens University delivers this course across three vibrant Australian cities: Surry Hills (NSW), Melbourne (VIC), and Fortitude Valley (QLD). Each campus offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and connections to local creative industries. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students, and only CRICOS-registered providers like Torrens University can enrol international students. This registration is your primary trust signal—ensuring the course meets Australian quality standards for education and student welfare.
Tuition fees for the Graduate Certificate of Design at Torrens University Australia Limited are A$17,800 (indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$17,800. Please note that this is an indicative fee only—the university may adjust fees, so always confirm the current amount on the Torrens University website at www.torrens.edu.au. The following costs are NOT included in the course fee: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (typically A$500–A$700 per year for single cover); living expenses such as rent, groceries, and transport; and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For example, in Sydney, indicative weekly costs might be A$350–A$500 for rent, A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$40–A$60 for public transport. Melbourne and Brisbane are generally slightly less expensive. Budgeting carefully is essential. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee schedule, visit the provider's website directly.
Entry requirements for the Graduate Certificate of Design vary by provider. Typically, you will need a completed bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, though some providers may accept relevant work experience. English language proficiency is required—common benchmarks include IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level and provider. Torrens University may also accept PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this course; refer to the provider for any alternative entry schemes. Once you meet academic and English requirements, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence is required—you need to show sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised visa advice.
Applying for the Graduate Certificate of Design at Torrens University Australia Limited is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter courses by level (Graduate Certificate), field (Creative Arts), and location (Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane). Confirm that Torrens University Australia Limited and its course (CRICOS 114513E) suit your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Torrens University website (www.torrens.edu.au) to check specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, English language results, and any other required documents. You may also need a portfolio for design courses—check with the admissions team.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Torrens University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, proof of financial capacity, and meet the GTE requirement. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
The Graduate Certificate of Design is delivered at three Torrens University campuses: Surry Hills (NSW), Melbourne (VIC), and Fortitude Valley (QLD). Each location offers unique advantages. Surry Hills is a creative hub within Sydney, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population (over 150,000 in greater Sydney). Public transport is excellent—the campus is near Central Station. Typical living costs in Sydney are higher: weekly rent around A$400–A$600. Melbourne's campus on Flinders Street places you in the heart of the city's arts precinct, with trams and trains at your doorstep. Melbourne has over 150 CRICOS providers and a strong design scene. Fortitude Valley in Brisbane is known for its cultural diversity and proximity to the CBD; Brisbane has around 50 CRICOS providers and lower living costs (weekly rent A$300–A$450). All campuses are ESOS-protected, meaning your tuition fees are safeguarded under the Tuition Protection Service. When choosing a location, consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and post-study work opportunities—each city has a distinct job market for designers.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the Graduate Certificate of Design and apply through HeadStart Academy's free resource hub.
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Graduate Certificate of Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Torrens University Australia Limited. 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.