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CUA51120 | CRICOS: 110425D

Diploma of Visual Arts

Unlock your creative talents with this visual arts diploma qualification. This course is perfect for individuals seeking self employment or work within the wider creative industries community.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Sunshine Coast North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus International
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 1 year View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession

Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

$10,035
Subsidised

There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

$11,520
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$18,465
International

This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

$19,000
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Take your creative skills to the next level with this diploma qualification. This course will enhance and develop further learning within the broader creative arts field.

The creative arts industry plays an important role in Australia's economy. According to the Australian Government's MySkills service, it contributes over $10 billion to the economy and employs nearly 100,000 people. The emergence of new technologies and wide range of job prospects available mean this is an exciting industry to be a part of.

This course enables you to specialise in core areas of visual culture and professional practice with electives in painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture, ceramics and digital media technology, combining specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills within the creative arts sector. TAFE Queensland's leading industry experts and specialist educators can provide you with the skills you need to flourish within the competitive creative arts sector.

Successful completion of the Diploma of Visual Arts will give you the skills and attributes to seek self employment or other creative occupations within a wide range of arts, government, community or commercial organisations.

What can I do?

  • Woodwork Designer
  • Printmaker
  • Commercial Textile Designer
  • Ceramic Artist
  • Visual Artist
  • Illustrator
  • Photographer
  • Painter (Visual Arts)
  • Sculptor
  • Digital Artist
  • Glasswork Artist

Course outcome:

CUA51120 Diploma of Visual Arts

Industry-standard facilities

Our learning spaces are more than just classrooms. Our working studios are equipped with industry standard tools, equipment and machines. This means you'll be prepared for real-world scenarios, with guidance from our team of industry professionals.

Pathways to university

Students in the Greater Brisbane area wishing to continue their studies can take advantage of our partnership with the University of Canberra. Successful completion of your diploma will automatically qualify you for a provisional place in the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) with up to one year of credit.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 10 elective units from the list below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

Core Units

  • Core Units

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR511
    Realise a body of creative work
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR511
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to integrate conceptual, technical and organisational skills to create a coherent body of work in any creative form.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Realise a body of creative work

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR515
    Establish and maintain safe creative practice
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR515
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to determine and respond effectively to broad and specific safety requirements in a professional practice.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Establish and maintain safe creative practice

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAACD531
    Refine drawing and other visual representation tools
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAACD531
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use drawing and other visual representation tools to develop, refine and communicate ideas for creative work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Refine drawing and other visual representation tools

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR512
    Develop sustainability of own professional practice
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR512
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish goals for own professional practice and determine how your practice can be developed in a sustainable way. All aspects of sustainability, such as individual, social, environmental and economic, should be considered.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop sustainability of own professional practice

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR513
    Present a body of own creative work
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR513
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use creative, technical and project management skills to produce a professional and innovative presentation of own creative work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Present a body of own creative work

  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
2 years
Part time 2 days a week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

2 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time 2 days a week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Nambour
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Nambour

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Cairns
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
up to 2 years
Part time up to 3 days per week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

up to 2 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time up to 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week. With optional studio access during timetabled studio times.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week. With optional studio access during timetabled studio times.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
up to 2 years
Part time up to 2 days per week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

up to 2 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time up to 2 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
up to 2 years
Part time up to 3 days per week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

up to 2 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time up to 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
up to 2 years
Part time up to 2 days per week
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

up to 2 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time up to 2 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week. With optional studio access during timetabled studio times.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week. With optional studio access during timetabled studio times.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $10,035

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $11,520

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $18,465

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Cairns
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 4 days per week
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time 4 days per week
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $19,000

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

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Diploma of Visual Arts (CUA51120)
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

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Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

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VET Student Loan - $18,097 cap

The VET Student Loans program assists eligible students enrolled in approved courses to pay their tuition fees.  The Australian Government charges full fee-paying (non-subsidised) students a 20 per cent loan fee in addition to their tuition fees.  A VET Student Loan is a debt that must be repaid.

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International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

Entry requirements

To enter this qualification, individuals must have the technical and organisational skills to conceptualise and create works in selected medium.

Those skills and knowledge may have been acquired through experience in creative practice or through formal study.

Selection criteria

Domestic and International students
To apply for this course you must present a collection of work, which demonstrates an interest in art and design. Folio pieces may include both hand rendered and computer-generated images, through the use of software from the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite. You may also wish to include developmental sketches and process work as well as the finished work.

If you are under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions apply.

Portfolio compulsory items:

Your folio should include 8 - 10 pieces of your choice, that demonstrates your creative works using a range of mediums. These could include:

  • Paintings, drawings or print work
  • Sculpture, or ceramics
  • Photoshop or digital work

Note: Submit either JPEG’s or PDF’s.
You must submit this electronically at time of application or via the Student Portal and MUST contain a zip file of all folio items.

N.B Students who have completed the CUA31115 or CUA31120 Cert III in Visual Arts or students successfully completed Art in Year 11 and are currently studying Art in Year 12 at school may use their work as a portfolio.

International Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students:

  • English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
  • Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software. This equipment and software are available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some design resources and a portable external hard drive (500MG minimum). Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation. 

Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of approximately $300.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
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Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more