Graduate Certificate of Design (CRICOS course code 116981E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking to deepen their design knowledge and creative skills in a practical, industry-focused environment. The course is part of the Creative Arts field (10 - Other Creative Arts, 109999) and is taught in English across multiple campuses in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course (03392K), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring quality and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you explore study options from 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia.
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Graduate Certificate of Design (CRICOS course code 116981E) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 20 weeks. This qualification sits at AQF Level 8 and falls under the field of Creative Arts (10), specifically Other Creative Arts (1099). The course is intended for graduates or professionals who want to build on their existing qualifications or experience in design. While the CRICOS register does not specify a detailed syllabus, graduate certificate programs typically involve advanced theoretical and practical study in design principles, creative thinking, and project-based work. Students can expect to develop skills in visual communication, design research, and contemporary design practices. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive the protections and quality assurance they are entitled to while studying in Australia.
This course is classified under the field of education 'Other Creative Arts' (109999), which encompasses a broad range of creative disciplines beyond fine arts and performing arts. While the exact curriculum is determined by the provider, graduate certificate programs in design typically cover areas such as design thinking, user experience, branding, and digital design. Students may engage in studio-based projects, industry briefs, and collaborative work to build a portfolio that demonstrates their capabilities. The program aims to equip graduates with advanced skills for roles in creative industries or further study at master's level. Importantly, this is a single qualification course and does not include a mandatory work component, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies.
The Graduate Certificate of Design has a duration of 20 weeks as listed on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English at the provider's campuses. The course is not a dual qualification nor a foundation studies program. International students should plan for intensive study over the semester, with the expectation of attending classes, completing assessments, and engaging in independent study. The language of instruction is English, and applicants will need to demonstrate English proficiency as part of the entry requirements. As a single qualification, this course does not lead directly to a bachelor or master degree but can provide a pathway to further study at AQF Level 9 (Master's) if the provider offers such progression.
The indicative tuition fee for this course as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026) is A$14,540. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$14,540. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and varies by provider and coverage level. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$30,000 per year for a single student (including accommodation, food, and transport). For the most current fees, always check the provider's website at www.collarts.edu.au. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change – HeadStart Academy strongly recommends confirming costs directly with Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8), many institutions expect an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 or equivalent. Additionally, applicants usually need to hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in a related field, or have significant professional experience. Some providers may require a portfolio of work. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry criteria – contact the provider for details. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend consulting the provider's website or a registered education agent. All entry requirements are subject to change by the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. International students may still take advantage of student visa work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks) to gain experience, but this is not part of the course structure.
Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd delivers the Graduate Certificate of Design at four locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood; 209 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy. All campuses are in the inner-city suburbs of Collingwood and Fitzroy, known for their vibrant arts and design scene. These areas are well-connected by public transport, including trams and trains, making it easy for students to commute from anywhere in Melbourne. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and is one of Australia's most popular study destinations for international students, with a diverse community and a cost of living that varies by suburb.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods. OSHC is mandatory. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy cannot provide immigration advice – always seek professional guidance.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong creative culture and a large international student population (over 250,000). The city offers diverse accommodation options, from shared apartments to homestays, with indicative weekly costs of A$200–450 for rent. Public transport is extensive and affordable, with a myki card covering trains, trams, and buses. Living costs, including groceries and transport, can range from A$400–600 per week. Before choosing Melbourne, consider your budget, climate preferences, and proximity to the design industry. Victoria has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, so you have many options. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses and providers across Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate of Design at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore providers by course level, field, and city. Confirm that the provider is CRICOS-registered (03392K) to ensure your study rights. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Collarts’ website at www.collarts.edu.au to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application and meet any conditions. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, financial capacity, and OSHC requirements. Consult a MARA agent if needed.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above and start your study journey at Australian College of the Arts.
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Graduate Certificate 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.