Graduate Diploma of Design (CRICOS course code 116980F) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03392K) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking to deepen their design knowledge and practical skills in a creative studio environment. The course falls under the field of Creative Arts (10), specifically Other Creative Arts (1099). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Students study at one of four Collarts campuses in Melbourne's vibrant inner-north suburbs, including Collingwood and Fitzroy, offering proximity to Melbourne's renowned design and arts scene. The indicative tuition fee is A$30,000, with no additional non-tuition fees. This page provides essential information about the course, including entry requirements, delivery locations, visa implications, and a step-by-step guide to applying. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change.
Graduate Diploma of Design (116980F) is a one-year full-time program at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03392K) operating as Collarts. This AQF Level 8 qualification is ideal for graduates with a bachelor degree in design or a related field who wish to advance their skills. The course is classified under Creative Arts (10) and focuses on practical design projects, industry collaboration, and portfolio development. Collarts is known for its hands-on, industry-connected approach, and the Graduate Diploma offers a pathway to further study or professional roles in design. CRICOS registration ensures the course meets strict quality standards under the ESOS Act, protecting international students' rights.
While specific curriculum details are set by the provider, Graduate Diploma-level study in Creative Arts typically involves advanced studio practice, design research, critical theory, and professional project work. Students develop skills in design thinking, visual communication, user experience, and creative problem-solving. The course may cover areas such as branding, digital design, motion graphics, or service design, preparing graduates for roles in creative agencies, in-house design teams, or entrepreneurial ventures. The field 'Other Creative Arts' encompasses interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to tailor projects to their interests. This level of study expects students to work independently on complex briefs and produce a substantial portfolio.
The Graduate Diploma of Design is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at one of the four campuses in Melbourne's inner north. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 52 weeks, so students must plan their studies accordingly. Part-time study is generally not available for international students on a Student visa, as Subclass 500 requires full-time enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$30,000, with no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$30,000. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–$700 per year), living costs in Melbourne (around A$21,000–$25,000 per year), and visa fees (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd at www.collarts.edu.au before applying. Fees are set by the provider and subject to change.
General entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma include a bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a design-related field. English language proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent), though some providers may set higher scores. Applicants without a design background may be considered on a case-by-case basis, possibly with additional portfolio requirements. Foundation or pathway options may be available through the provider — check directly with Collarts for specific entry requirements and any preparatory courses. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa may undertake work outside study hours, subject to visa conditions: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with course requirements.
The Graduate Diploma of Design is delivered at four Collarts campuses in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood; 209 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy. Collingwood and Fitzroy are inner-north suburbs known for their creative culture, galleries, and design studios. These campuses are well-connected by public transport, with trams and trains providing easy access to Melbourne's CBD (approximately 5–10 minutes). Melbourne is home to over 80 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population of over 250,000. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$250–$400 per week for rent, A$80–$150 for groceries, and A$40–$60 for transport.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain valid health insurance. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependents on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) may accompany the student. All students are protected under the ESOS Act, which ensures tuition assurance and refund mechanisms. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Design at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Creative Arts), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Collarts (CRICOS 03392K) is currently registered for course 116980F. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through Collarts' website (www.collarts.edu.au) or their admissions team. Prepare documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), portfolio if required, and a valid passport. Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Collarts will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and funds for living costs.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is Australia's cultural capital and a hub for design and creative industries. With over 80 CRICOS providers and a large international student community, students benefit from a diverse and supportive environment. Melbourne's public transport system makes commuting easy, and the city offers a wealth of galleries, studios, and networking events. However, living costs are higher than in smaller cities — budget accordingly. Consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and career opportunities. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses and locations across Australia to find the best fit.
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Graduate Diploma of Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts 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.