Graduate Certificate in Visual Arts – Griffith University

Graduate Certificate Fine Arts Full Time

Graduate Certificate in Visual Arts

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

056918B

CRICOS provider code

00233E

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

26 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$20,750 total

Per year

A$41,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Certificate in Visual Arts at Griffith University is aimed at artists and creative professionals seeking to develop their artistic practice through structured studio work and critical engagement. Situated in Brisbane, this course involves intensive, project-based study over approximately 26 weeks, allowing students to hone both conceptual and technical skills in their chosen medium. The coursework often spans areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, and interdisciplinary practices, supported by critique and feedback from experienced practitioners.

Australian graduate certificate programs like this are made up of a set number of units of study, often totalling 40 credit points, condensed into half a year of full-time study. Assessment is based on studio projects, presentations, and theoretical research. While a capstone or thesis isn't a formal requirement at this level, students create a cohesive portfolio of work, preparing them for further study or professional opportunities.

Skills developed include visual literacy, self-directed art practice, research methods in contemporary art, and critical analysis of artworks. The course suits early-career artists, arts educators, or those seeking to build a professional portfolio for gallery, teaching, or further tertiary study in Australia.

Brisbane’s arts scene and cultural institutions provide valuable context and potential for industry engagement. Students often benefit from Griffith's connections to local galleries and studios. International students are able to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) once they meet post-study requirements. Confirm specific structure and entry requirements directly on the official Griffith University page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Studio artist in private practice or community arts
Gallery or museum assistant roles
Arts administration in cultural organisations
Creative project manager in local councils or public art projects
Pathway into further postgraduate study in fine arts or art education

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Certificate in Visual Arts at Griffith University?

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$20,750 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Studio artist in private practice or community artsGallery or museum assistant rolesArts administration in cultural organisationsCreative project manager in local councils or public art projectsPathway into further postgraduate study in fine arts or art education

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