Graduate Diploma Fine Arts Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

113671K

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$46,500 total

Per year

A$34,543/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects at the University of New South Wales in Sydney is designed for those wishing to gain specialist knowledge and skills in the fields of animation, digital imaging, and visual storytelling. This program integrates technical proficiency with artistic creativity, equipping students to produce high-quality animated and visual effects content for a range of platforms. The course covers key areas such as 2D and 3D animation, compositing, motion graphics, storyboarding, and post-production techniques.

Structured as a 1.5-year graduate diploma, the program comprises a set of units of study, each assigned a specific number of credit points, to give graduates a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of animation and visual effects. Students typically engage in hands-on projects, studio-based learning, and may participate in collaborative creative work. The curriculum is designed to support the development of a professional portfolio, which is vital for entry into the highly competitive creative industries.

This course encourages multidisciplinary collaboration and may integrate opportunities for industry engagement through guest lectures and project feedback, connecting students to Australia's vibrant creative sector. While formal professional placement is not a core feature, students benefit from exposure to industry-standard tools and workflows. The graduate diploma is ideal for recent graduates in fine arts or related fields, as well as professionals seeking to upskill or change careers into animation or VFX.

The program suits those with a passion for digital art, storytelling, and technology, and provides a pathway to advanced roles in media, entertainment, and design. English proficiency is required for international applicants, and UNSW accepts a range of recognised tests. Students are encouraged to confirm unit structures, credit point requirements, and further details on the official program 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

Animator or Visual Effects Artist in film, television, and digital media
Motion Graphics Designer in advertising and marketing agencies
3D Modeller or Compositor for visual effects studios
Pre-visualisation Artist for game development and interactive media
Creative positions in Australia's media, entertainment, and digital arts industries

Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$46,500 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Animator or Visual Effects Artist in film, television, and digital mediaMotion Graphics Designer in advertising and marketing agencies3D Modeller or Compositor for visual effects studiosPre-visualisation Artist for game development and interactive mediaCreative positions in Austr...

Apply View university