Associate Degree in Media Studies (CRICOS course code 115672D) is an Associate Degree delivered by Adelaide University over 2 years. This program is designed for international students seeking a foundational qualification in communication and media studies at AQF Level 6. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in media production, digital communication, and critical analysis. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04249J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Adelaide University, a public university, offers this course at its Adelaide City and Magill campuses in South Australia. Graduates may progress to further study or enter entry-level roles in media, advertising, public relations, or content creation. With Australia hosting over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses, this program is one of many quality-assured options for international students. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as a student are safeguarded throughout your studies.
The Associate Degree in Media Studies (CRICOS 115672D) is a 2-year (104-week) program at AQF Level 6. It falls under the field of Communication and Media Studies (100799). The course is taught entirely in English and does not offer dual qualifications or foundation studies. A key feature is a compulsory work component of 4 weeks (~120 hours), providing students with real-world industry experience. Adelaide University is a CRICOS-registered provider (04249J) and a government-funded institution, ensuring quality assurance under the ESOS Act. This course is ideal for international students who want a shorter, practical pathway into the media industry or wish to articulate into a bachelor's degree. Australia's CRICOS register includes over 26,000 courses across all study levels, and this program is part of that trusted system.
This program covers core areas of communication and media studies, including media theory, digital content creation, journalism principles, and strategic communication. Students develop skills in writing for different media, audio-visual production, social media management, and audience analysis. The curriculum is designed to build critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities relevant to the evolving media landscape. While specific units are determined by the university, graduates typically gain a comprehensive understanding of media industries and practical production techniques. The course also emphasises ethical and legal considerations in media practice. Assessment methods may include essays, portfolios, practical projects, and presentations. This foundation prepares you for further study at bachelor level or entry-level roles in media, marketing, and communications.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (Associate Degree) with no dual award. Students are expected to study full-time, typically enrolling in four courses per semester across two semesters per year. The program includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, workshops, and self-directed study. Adelaide University's academic year usually runs from February to November, with breaks between semesters. Some students may choose to extend their study period due to part-time enrolment, but visa conditions generally require full-time study. International students should maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa (Subclass 500) requirements.
Tuition fees for the Associate Degree in Media Studies are indicative at A$78,000 total for the 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs. Estimated total is A$78,000. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. According to the Department of Home Affairs, international students should show financial capacity for tuition, living costs (currently A$21,041 per year for a single student), OSHC, and travel. Adelaide's living costs are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne — indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–300, groceries A$80–100, and public transport A$40–60. For current fees, always visit Adelaide University's official website. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change, so it's essential to confirm directly with the provider before applying.
Entry requirements for international students are set by Adelaide University. Generally, applicants need to have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. English language proficiency is required — typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall depending on the institution and course level. For this associate degree, a score around 6.0–6.5 is common. Other tests like TOEFL or PTE may also be accepted. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — check with Adelaide University for options. All international applicants must hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to apply for a student visa. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers academic background and English proficiency holistically.
This course includes 4 weeks of work-integrated learning, totaling approximately 120 hours. The specific structure – whether an internship, industry placement, or clinical placement – is determined by Adelaide University. Such components provide valuable practical experience and help students build professional networks in the media sector. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are allowed to undertake work placements that are part of their course, subject to visa conditions. The work component may be completed in a single block or spread across the program, depending on the university's design. This hands-on experience enhances employability and gives students a taste of the media industry in Australia.
This course is delivered at two campuses: Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus (located in the Adelaide CBD) and Magill Campus (in the eastern suburb of Magill, SA). Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its affordable living and vibrant cultural scene. The city has a significant international student population, with over 30,000 international students studying across its universities and colleges. Public transport is accessible via buses, trains, and trams, with student concession fares available. Both campuses are well-connected to the city centre. Adelaide offers a range of accommodation options, from on-campus residences to private rentals. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in South Australia alone, students have plenty of choice. The ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and student support.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It's important to maintain enrolment and satisfactory course progress to comply with visa conditions. For detailed guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general information but not migration advice. Australia's student visa framework is part of a robust system that has attracted over 700,000 international students pre-pandemic, with strong regulatory oversight.
Applying for the Associate Degree in Media Studies at Adelaide University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Associate Degree), field (Communication and Media Studies), and location (South Australia). Use HeadStart Academy's search tools to compare options. 2. Apply directly to Adelaide University: Check entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test results (IELTS, etc.), and submit your application before the deadline. Some courses may have intakes in February and July. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa: Once accepted, Adelaide University will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
Adelaide is a compact, student-friendly city with a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. It offers a relaxed lifestyle and a growing media and creative industries sector. The city has multiple universities, including the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and University of South Australia (now Adelaide University as of 2026). There are over 30 CRICOS-registered providers in South Australia offering diverse courses. Public transport is reliable and affordable. Consider your preference for city life versus suburban campuses — Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the CBD, while Magill Campus is in a quieter residential area. Networking opportunities in media may be more limited compared to larger cities, but the close-knit community can be advantageous. Before committing, think about your career goals and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare courses and providers across Australia.
Ready to start your journey? Research Associate Degree options in Media Studies on HeadStart Academy and compare CRICOS-registered providers in South Australia.
Associate Degree in Media Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide University. 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.