Certificate IV in Design (CRICOS course code 119036M) is a Certificate IV delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 4 course is designed for international students seeking foundational skills in graphic and design studies. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00591E), TAFE NSW offers this course across multiple campuses in New South Wales. The program covers essential design principles, digital tools, and creative problem-solving, preparing graduates for entry-level roles or further study. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Certificate IV in Design (CRICOS course code 119036M) is a Certificate IV delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is classified under AQF Level 4 and falls within the field of Graphic Arts and Design Studies (100501). It equips students with practical skills in visual communication, typography, layout, and digital design. The course is ideal for those looking to start a career in graphic design, branding, or multimedia. TAFE NSW is one of Australia's largest government-owned training providers, with a strong reputation for vocational education. International students benefit from the same high standards as domestic students, with dedicated support services.
This course focuses on the Creative Arts field, specifically Graphic and Design Studies. Students typically learn design processes, colour theory, digital imaging, and project management. They gain proficiency in industry-standard software and develop a portfolio of work. The curriculum balances creative exploration with technical skills, preparing graduates for roles such as junior graphic designer, design assistant, or freelance artist. While specific units may vary, the overall outcome is a broad understanding of design principles applicable across media. Australia's creative industries are growing, and this qualification provides a solid foundation for further study at diploma or degree level.
The course is scheduled for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Although the CRICOS duration indicates full-time study, students should confirm schedule details with TAFE NSW. Standard international student visa conditions require attendance on a full-time basis. This duration allows students to complete the qualification efficiently and progress to further study or employment.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Design is A$10,600, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$10,600. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living expenses in New South Wales vary by city: in Sydney, weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. In smaller cities like Newcastle or Wollongong, costs are lower. Always confirm current fees on the TAFE NSW international website. Fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change.
For this Certificate IV level, international students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Year 11 or equivalent academic qualifications. Specific prerequisites may apply; check with TAFE NSW for exact entry criteria. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as ELICOS (English language courses) may be available. Always confirm with the provider as requirements can change. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider directly or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This allows students to gain industry experience and supplement living costs. Work is optional and not assessed as part of the course. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as a student are upheld.
Certificate IV in Design is delivered at five TAFE NSW campuses in New South Wales: Enmore (inner-west Sydney), Hornsby (northern Sydney), Kingscliff (Northern Rivers near the Queensland border), Lidcombe (western Sydney), and Ultimo (Sydney CBD). Each campus provides access to design studios, computer labs, and library resources. Sydney, the state capital, has over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant creative sector. Kingscliff offers a coastal study environment with lower cost of living. Public transport connects all campuses; the Ultimo and Enmore campuses are near train stations and bus routes. Choosing a location depends on your preference for urban or regional life.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE NSW, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the course duration, and evidence of financial capacity. With a Student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to comply with visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment and satisfactory course progress. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Design at Technical and Further Education Commission: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by Certificate IV in Design in NSW. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (00591E) and course code (119036M). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application through TAFE NSW's international admissions portal. Prepare academic transcripts, English test results, and a portfolio if required. Check application deadlines and intake dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, TAFE NSW issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Start your visa process early to allow for processing times.
New South Wales offers a dynamic environment for design students. Sydney is a global creative hub with countless galleries, design studios, and networking events. Outside Sydney, regional campuses like Kingscliff provide a quieter, cost-effective alternative without compromising on education quality. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you have options. NSW alone hosts hundreds of providers. Visit the city before deciding, if possible. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and student rights.
Ready to start your design career? Explore Certificate IV in Design at TAFE NSW. Visit the provider's website for current fees and intake dates.
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Certificate IV in Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.