Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking (CRICOS course code 117364M) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Edith Cowan University over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification sits within the Creative Arts field, specialising in Graphic Arts and Design Studies. HeadStart Academy provides this detail sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you have accurate, up-to-date information. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, meaning they meet Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ providers, and this page helps you explore one specific option.
Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking (CRICOS course code 117364M) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Edith Cowan University over 26 weeks (~6 months). The course is at AQF Level 8 and falls under the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). It is designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in design thinking, user-centred design, and innovation processes. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), so you can trust the information here. Remember, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses to international students.
This Graduate Certificate focuses on design thinking methodologies and their application in various industries. Students typically explore topics such as human-centred design, problem framing, ideation, prototyping, and design strategy. The course is at a postgraduate level, so it assumes prior undergraduate study (usually a bachelor degree). It equips graduates with skills to lead innovation, improve processes, and create user-focused solutions. The specific curriculum is set by Edith Cowan University; for detailed subjects and learning outcomes, refer to the provider's website. This field (Graphic Arts and Design Studies) is part of the broader Creative Arts sector, which includes many courses across Australia.
The Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking is scheduled for 26 weeks on the CRICOS register, equating to approximately 6 months of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not involve foundation studies. International students should note that full-time study is typically required for student visa compliance. The course is not a VET program (National Code N/A). For more details on study modes, including potential part-time options, contact Edith Cowan University directly. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking is A$18,850, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total A$18,850. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. Fees are set by Edith Cowan University and are subject to change; always confirm current fees on the provider's website. For comparison, postgraduate course fees in Australia typically range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year depending on the institution and field. HeadStart Academy presents these figures as a guide only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For a Graduate Certificate at Edith Cowan University, the typical expectation is IELTS 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants usually need a recognised bachelor degree, though relevant work experience may be considered. Some providers offer pathway options like a Graduate Certificate to a full Master's, but that is not standard here. Always check the specific entry requirements on Edith Cowan University's website or contact their admissions team. Remember that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no integrated work placement or internship within the Graduate Certificate. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work while studying: up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work experience may still be pursued independently, but it is not a requirement of the course. Always ensure your work does not interfere with your study commitment. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights, including the right to accurate information about your course.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Western Australia: ECU City Campus (located in Perth's central business district) and ECU Mt Lawley Campus (in the suburb of Mt Lawley, approximately 5 km from Perth CBD). Both campuses are well-served by public transport (train and bus). Perth is the capital of Western Australia and has a student population of around 200,000 across its universities and colleges. There are 5 major universities in WA and many other CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus is A$250–350, groceries A$60–100, and transport A$30–50 using a SmartRider card. Perth offers a vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and a multicultural community. For more location insights, visit our state guide at /states/wa.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa application also requires you to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (minimum A$21,041 per year for living expenses as per Department of Home Affairs), and travel. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course will support your visa application. Note: visa requirements can change; always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking at Edith Cowan University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Creative Arts), and location (Perth). Confirm the course code 117364M is still current on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to Edith Cowan University: Check entry requirements (including English language test scores and prior qualifications), prepare your documents, and submit an application by the deadline. Applications are typically made online through ECU's international admissions portal. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, ECU will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity. Always apply well in advance of your intended start date.
Perth offers a unique blend of urban lifestyle and natural beauty, with a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a strong job market, particularly in mining, health, and education, and is home to a diverse student community. Public transport is efficient, with free CAT buses in the CBD. If you value a more relaxed pace, sunny weather, and access to beaches and parks, Perth could be an excellent choice. However, consider that it is more isolated from other Australian capitals, which may affect travel options. For design thinking careers, Perth's growing innovation sector may offer opportunities. Always weigh your personal preferences and research industry links in your field.
Explore more Graduate Certificate courses in Western Australia at /study/graduate-certificate/wa or start your application by researching CRICOS-registered providers.
Graduate Certificate in Design Thinking is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan 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.