Diploma Fine Arts Full Time

Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

120662H

CRICOS provider code

00122A

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

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$24,500 total

Per year

A$24,500/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts at RMIT University is a one-year, higher-level qualification designed for students who have a background in visual arts and want to develop their individual artistic voice. Based in Melbourne, this course brings together studio practice, conceptual frameworks, and critical thinking in a creative environment. You will immerse yourself in advanced methods of painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and digital media, encouraged to pursue a personal direction through your chosen mediums.

Australian advanced diplomas are typically full-time, and this course is structured around a series of units of study adding up to the required credit points over two semesters. Assessment is studio-based, with students building a portfolio and culminating in a final capstone project or public exhibition. RMIT’s links with local artists, galleries, and community projects offer opportunities to showcase your work and develop contacts in Australia’s visual arts sector.

You will focus on building technical proficiency, conceptual development, and professional practice. This includes studio techniques, visual research, self-directed art projects, and critiques. Graduates gain the skills to work independently as practicing artists or progress to further studies, such as a bachelor degree in fine arts. This course suits those who already hold a diploma in visual arts (or equivalent experience), looking to refine their craft and advance their career prospects in creative industries.

International students must meet RMIT’s English proficiency standards. While enrolled, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after completion, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), depending on your future study plans in Australia. Always check the official RMIT and government pages for the latest admission and visa requirements.

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

Practicing visual artist or designer
Art studio assistant
Museum or gallery worker
Community arts facilitator
Art technician
Roles in creative industries, education, or arts administration within Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts at RMIT University?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$24,500 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Practicing visual artist or designerArt studio assistantMuseum or gallery workerCommunity arts facilitatorArt technicianRoles in creative industries, education, or arts administration within Australia

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