Certificate IV in Design (CRICOS course code 119035A) is a Certificate IV delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is ideal for international students seeking a foundational design education in one of Australia’s most creative cities. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. RMIT, a government-owned university with CRICOS provider code 00122A, has a strong reputation in design and creative arts. With Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene and over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria offering design-related courses, this program offers a solid pathway to further study or entry-level roles in graphic design, digital media, and visual communication.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Certificate IV in Design (CRICOS course code 119035A) is a Certificate IV (AQF Level 4) qualification delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (CRICOS 00122A). The course spans 26 weeks (~6 months) of full-time study, with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. The VET national code is CUA40725. This course falls under the field of education: 10 - Creative Arts → 1005 - Graphic and Design Studies → 100501 - Graphic Arts and Design Studies. No work component is included. Delivery is at the Brunswick Campus, 25 Dawson Street, Brunswick, VIC. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and offers excellent public transport connections to the campus. Indicative living costs in Melbourne are around A$450–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport.
The Certificate IV in Design provides students with foundational skills in graphic arts and design studies. Graduates typically learn to apply design principles, use industry-standard software, create visual solutions for print and digital media, and develop portfolios. The curriculum covers areas such as typography, colour theory, layout, and branding. While specific subjects are set by the provider, the course aims to prepare students for further study at diploma or degree level, or for entry-level roles in design studios, advertising agencies, or marketing departments. This level of study is suitable for those with some prior experience in design or related fields.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification — no dual or joint degree is offered. The course is not a foundation studies program. Students should expect a structured timetable with classes, workshops, and independent project work. The Brunswick Campus is well-served by trams and buses, making it accessible from across Melbourne.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Design are set by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), indicative fees are as follows: tuition A$20,000, non-tuition fees A$186, estimated total A$20,186. Please note that these fees are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register — they are subject to change. Always confirm directly with RMIT at www.rmit.edu.au for current fees. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. International students in Melbourne should budget approximately A$21,000–A$26,000 per year for living costs, as advised by the Department of Home Affairs.
Entry requirements for international students typically include an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Applicants are usually expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some background in art or design may be beneficial. RMIT may also consider portfolio submissions or prior learning. For pathway options if you do not meet requirements, contact RMIT directly. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for detailed entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain work experience and supplement your income while studying. Always refer to your visa conditions and current Department of Home Affairs rules.
Certificate IV in Design is delivered at: Brunswick Campus, 25 Dawson Street, Brunswick, VIC. Brunswick is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, approximately 5 km north of the CBD. The campus is easily accessible by public transport, including tram routes 1, 6, and 19, and buses. The area has a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, cafes, and creative spaces. Melbourne has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, with many in Victoria offering design courses.
International students studying this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and English language proficiency. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All international students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that RMIT (CRICOS 00122A) is registered to deliver Certificate IV in Design (119035A). HeadStart Academy’s free directory can help you compare courses. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Fulfill entry requirements (e.g., English test scores, qualifications) and submit an application to RMIT by their deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, RMIT will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital, home to over 200,000 international students. It offers world-class education, a thriving arts scene, and excellent public transport. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly costs: rent (shared) A$250–A$400, groceries A$60–A$100, transport A$30–A$50. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering design courses, giving you flexibility if you wish to transfer. However, consider climate (cool winters, variable weather) and competitive job market for graduates. Research RMIT’s campus facilities and student support services before applying.
Ready to start your design journey? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and apply today.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Certificate IV in Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.