Looking to turn your passion for photography into a professional career in Australia? The Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CRICOS course code 119065F) is a 50-week (~12 months) Diploma level program delivered by TAFE Queensland, one of Australia's largest government-owned vocational education providers. This course is designed for international students who want to develop advanced technical and creative skills in photography, digital imaging, and visual storytelling. With a focus on practical, industry-relevant training, graduates are prepared for roles such as commercial photographer, photo editor, or content creator. TAFE Queensland is a CRICOS-registered provider (code 03020E), ensuring the course meets Australian government standards for international education. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you're planning to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) or simply exploring options, this guide covers fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and more to help you make an informed decision.
The Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CRICOS course code 119065F) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 50 weeks (~12 months). This qualification is classified under AQF Level 5 and falls within the field of education '10 - Creative Arts', specifically '1003 - Visual Arts and Crafts' with a focus on Photography (100303). The VET national code for this course is CUA50925. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies) and does not include a mandatory work component. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned (public) provider, which often means lower tuition fees compared to private colleges while still offering high-quality education. The course is delivered at the South Bank campus in South Brisbane, putting students in the heart of Brisbane's vibrant arts and culture precinct.
This diploma covers the technical and creative aspects of photography and digital imaging. Students typically learn advanced camera techniques, lighting design, digital post-production, image management, and professional studio practices. The curriculum also includes business skills for freelance photographers, such as client communication, project management, and marketing. Graduates develop a portfolio demonstrating their ability to produce commercial-grade images across various genres, including portrait, landscape, fashion, and product photography. Please note that this is a general description of the field; specific subjects are determined by TAFE Queensland and may vary. For a detailed syllabus, consult the provider directly.
The course duration is 50 weeks (~12 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards). No foundation or pathway studies are built into this course, but TAFE Queensland may offer pathways from lower-level qualifications or into higher education. Contact the provider for articulation options. The standard study load is around 20 scheduled contact hours per week, plus self-directed study.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging is A$22,600. Non-tuition fees (such as materials or administration) are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should confirm any additional costs directly with TAFE Queensland. The estimated total fee is A$22,600. Please note: this amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Brisbane should budget approximately A$400–600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. Always check the latest fees on the provider's website at www.tafeqld.edu.au before applying.
To enrol in this diploma, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency – an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) is commonly required. Applicants should also have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas. Prior experience or a certificate in a related field (e.g., Certificate III in Photography) may be beneficial but is not always mandatory. TAFE Queensland may have specific academic prerequisites; check their website for detailed entry criteria. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway programs (such as ELICOS) may be available. This is general guidance only – admission decisions are made by the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, as a Student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. It is important to balance work and study to meet course requirements.
The Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging is delivered at TAFE Queensland's South Bank campus, located in South Brisbane, QLD. This campus is part of the South Bank education precinct, close to the Brisbane River and city centre. Brisbane has a large international student community – over 60,000 international students choose Queensland each year. The city offers affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around $200–300. Public transport (buses, trains, and ferries) connects the campus easily. There are many CRICOS-registered providers in Brisbane (over 200) offering courses across all fields. Studying at a public TAFE in a creative hub like South Bank gives you access to galleries, studios, and networking opportunities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time diploma in Australia. The visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating that your primary intention is to study and that you will return home after completing your studies. Financial capacity evidence is needed to show you can pay for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For detailed visa conditions and to apply, visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; seek professional advice if needed.
Brisbane is a growing hub for creative arts in Australia, with a thriving photography scene. The city hosts numerous galleries, festivals, and commercial studios. Studying at TAFE Queensland's South Bank campus places you in the middle of the cultural precinct, near the Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). The cost of living in Brisbane is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students on a budget. With a warm climate, you can practice outdoor photography year-round. Brisbane is home to over 60,000 international students, providing a diverse community. When choosing where to study, consider the local industry connections – TAFE Queensland has strong links with employers in the creative sector. This course equips you with skills for roles in commercial photography, digital content creation, and visual storytelling, which are in demand as the media and marketing industries grow.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Photography), and location (Brisbane). Confirm that TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) is registered to deliver this course (code 119065F). 2. **Apply directly to TAFE Queensland** – Visit their website (www.tafeqld.edu.au) to find application forms, entry requirements, and deadlines. You will need to provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS), academic transcripts, and a portfolio may be requested. Submit your application and wait for a Letter of Offer. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, TAFE Queensland will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. You must also arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and demonstrate financial capacity.
Here are four common questions about the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging at TAFE Queensland:
Ready to apply? Visit TAFE Queensland's website to start your application for the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CRICOS 119065F). Use HeadStart Academy's resources to explore more courses and visa requirements.
Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.