Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies (CRICOS course code 115790J) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Adelaide University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 course sits within the field of Society and Culture (090311 - Indigenous Studies) and is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge of Aboriginal cultures, histories, and contemporary issues. Adelaide University, CRICOS provider code 04249J, is a government university located in South Australia. The course is delivered at two campuses: the Adelaide City Campus in the heart of the city, and the Magill Campus in the eastern suburb of Magill. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options using official CRICOS data. This page provides indicative fees, entry guidance, and visa information to support your planning.
Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies (CRICOS course code 115790J) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Adelaide University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is classified under the field of Indigenous Studies, offering students a foundational understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it requires a bachelor degree or equivalent for entry, though specific requirements vary by provider. Adelaide University is a public university with a strong reputation for Indigenous research and community engagement. The course is taught in English and leads to a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer protections.
The Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies focuses on the interdisciplinary field of Indigenous Studies, which examines Aboriginal cultures, histories, languages, and contemporary social, political, and legal issues. Students at this level typically develop critical thinking and research skills applicable to roles in community development, policy, education, and cultural heritage management. While the exact curriculum is set by Adelaide University, graduates of such programs often gain the ability to work effectively with Indigenous communities and organisations. The field of education (090311 - Indigenous Studies) falls under Society and Culture, one of Australia's broadest study areas, with hundreds of courses available across the country.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months). It is delivered in English. The course is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Study mode is likely full-time on campus, though you should confirm with Adelaide University for specific timetabling. As a graduate certificate, it is typically structured to accommodate students who may be balancing work or other commitments. The standard international student visa (Subclass 500) allows full-time study, and the duration fits within standard visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$21,250, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$21,250. Please note these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Adelaide University sets the final fees, so always check their website for current amounts. This estimate does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), or the visa application charge. For a single student in Adelaide, living costs are typically around A$500–700 per week, including rent, utilities, and food. OSHC for a single student for 6 months costs roughly A$300–500. Always budget for the entire duration of your stay.
English language requirements vary by provider. For graduate certificates at Australian universities, the typical IELTS overall band score ranges from 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the course and institution. For this course, you should check Adelaide University's specific entry requirements, which may include a minimum IELTS of 6.5 or equivalent. As a graduate certificate (AQF Level 8), you generally need a completed bachelor degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Some providers may also consider professional experience. Foundation or pathway options are not specified for this course, but Adelaide University may offer alternative entry programs – refer to their website for details.
No work component is included in this course. The CRICOS register indicates there is no mandatory work placement, internship, or professional experience requirement. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any work is separate from the course curriculum.
This course is delivered at two Adelaide University campuses: Adelaide City Campus (located in the Adelaide central business district) and Magill Campus (in the eastern suburb of Magill, approximately 8 km from the city). Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of about 1.3 million. The city has a moderate cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne; weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–450. Public transport includes buses, trains, and trams, with concessions available for students. Adelaide is home to over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses, making it a popular study destination.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Adelaide University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and English language proficiency. OSHC must be maintained for the visa duration. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Upon completing this graduate certificate, you may be eligible to apply for a further visa or pathway to work in Australia, subject to immigration rules. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies at Adelaide University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Society and Culture), and location (Adelaide) to find this course and others. All providers on our site are CRICOS-registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit Adelaide University's official website to check entry requirements, including English language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), academic transcripts, and application deadlines. Submit your application online.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet all financial and health requirements.
Adelaide offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to Australia's eastern capitals, with lower rent and transport costs. The city has a strong multicultural community and a growing international student population (over 40,000 in 2026). The Adelaide City Campus is easily accessible by tram and bus, while Magill Campus is a short bus ride from the city centre. If you value a close-knit study environment with access to natural attractions like the Adelaide Hills and beaches, Adelaide could be a great fit. However, job opportunities may be fewer than in larger cities, so plan your work and budget accordingly.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy or visit Adelaide University's website to begin your application.
Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal 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.