Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging

Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging - CUA50920

VOCATIONAL

Take the next step in your photography study and practice.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Fees:

Fee finder

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Fees:

AU$24,750 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Further develop your creative practice and hone your photography skills in this practical, industry-led diploma.

In the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging, you will have the opportunity to further develop your artistic practice and hone your creative skills. 

Designed to build practical and highly transferrable skills across a range of industry contexts, including commercial, advertising, documentary, editorial, institutional and fine art photography, this qualification will teach you to:

  • interpret photo imaging assignment briefs
  • consult with clients to refine objectives of photo imaging assignments
  • select the appropriate tools to capture images, including types of camera, image recording media, lighting, post-capture processing and outputs
  • work from a studio or in a range of locations
  • employ aesthetic, conceptual, compositional and technical skills to realise photo imaging outcomes, and 
  • utilise a range of traditional, contemporary and emergent technologies in the capture, preparation and distribution of images.

As a graduate of this diploma, you will have a sound theoretical and practical knowledge base, and the skills to use a range of specialised and technical skills to plan, execute and evaluate photography and photo imaging services.

Why study photography and digital imaging at RMIT?

Work-integrated learning

Undertake 40+ hours of industry-based work experience in a commercial/creative field of choice.

Graduate job-ready

Learn to use industry-standard software and follow professional practices.

Build your folio

Collate samples of your photo imaging and video work, proof sheets and visual design layouts.

This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.

Details

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Learning and teaching

Your learning in this diploma will include both supervised and self-directed learning activities, including face-to-face classes and tutorials, lectures, teacher-led discussions, and online activities.

You will learn using industry standard software and follow professional practices to ensure that as a graduate you are industry-ready.

Assessment methods

Your assessment may include individual or group presentations, reports, industry-relevant and collaborative projects, and self-assessment. You may also produce a folio, using samples of specific photo imaging and video work and work-in-progress on major projects such as 2D photo imaging works, proof sheets, visual design layouts.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

Your teachers in this diploma are practicing photographic professionals with extensive industry experience, which will enrich your learning.

RMIT's photography discipline has close links with industry and gives students opportunity to work in a variety of environments including marketing, community-based projects and exhibitions.

The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) nominated subject for this diploma is:

  • CUAPPR512 Develop sustainability of own professional practice.

In this subject, you will take on a prescribed brief and opportunity to obtain 40+ hours of industry-based work experience in a commercial/creative field of choice. 

If you are working, particularly in a job that is related to your studies, you will also be learning while at work and may have the opportunity to be assessed in your workplace for some or all of your subjects. 

The Industry Advisory Committee, a group of industry professionals reflecting diverse aspects of photography and photo imaging, provide input and guidance to the development and delivery of this diploma. Subjects within this diploma are taught by people with extensive industry experience and background.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this certificate and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

To graduate from this diploma, you must undertake and successfully complete 17 subjects, which include four core subjects and 13 electives.

These subjects will cover a range of topics and competencies, including:

  • visual communication theory
  • trends and emerging technologies
  • lighting techniques
  • pre-press processing
  • commercial, media, technical and illustrative photography
  • styling and merchandising
  • user interface creation.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
Program code: C5411
National curriculum code: CUA50920
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
City Campus
1 Year - Full Time
C5411
108041E
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 Year - Full Time
Plan code
C5411
CRICOS
108041E
View plan
Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
City Campus
1 Year - Full Time
C5411
108041E
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 Year - Full Time
Plan code
C5411
CRICOS
108041E
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

As a graduate of this diploma, you will have the skills to pursue a career in a range of industries. 

You may work as a freelance photographer in commercial, advertising, editorial, fashion, food, wedding, portrait, sports, travel, stock library, illustrative, and scientific and technical photography. You can also start a career as a photographic assistant or technician in any of these fields, or in professional image retouching, digital image operation, events and corporate photography, or media and documentary photography.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following academic (entry) requirements to be considered for entry into this course.

Semester 1 (February)

Applicants must demonstrate the application of technical skills and knowledge equivalent to Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 4 or above in photography and digital imaging, visual arts or design. Skills and knowledge may have been acquired through experience or formal study. 

All applicants must submit the selection task

The selection task has 3 options: RMIT previous studies, external qualification or a folio with supporting evidence. Applicants only need to complete the section most relevant to their qualification(s) and experience.

Semester 2 (July)

Semester 2 applications are only open to current or previous RMIT guaranteed pathway students.

You must have successfully completed at least one of the following RMIT qualifications:

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

Semester 1, 2025

Entry into this program is competitive, and applications are assessed in the order that they are received until this date, if places are still available. For your best chance at admission into this program, you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Selection task dates

Selection task dates for direct applicants

If you are applying direct to RMIT, you must complete and submit your direct application by the date below. The link to submit your selection task will appear on the applicant dashboard after you have submitted your application. Please see the Apply page for information on eligibility to apply direct.

Applicant type Register and submit the selection task by
Direct applicants 7 February 2025

Selection task requirements

The selection task has 3 options: RMIT previous studies, external qualification or a folio with supporting evidence. Applicants only need to complete the section most relevant to their qualification(s) and experience.

RMIT previous studies

If you have successfully completed, or are due to complete at the end of the current RMIT semester, one of the following RMIT University courses, you must submit your selection task so that your eligibility and application will be assessed based on the approved RMIT pathway program: 

External qualification

If you have successfully completed, or are due to complete at the end of the current semester, one of the following nationally recognised qualifications, you must upload a copy of your official award and transcript of results for one of the previously listed diplomas and submit your selection task:

  • CUA41120 Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging 
  • CUA41115 Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging 
  • CUV40411 Certificate IV in Photo Imaging.
Folio

Submit a folio consisting of a minimum of 8 images showing a variety of digital imaging outcomes including, but not limited to; studio lighting, photoshop and/or post-production examples. 

Supporting evidence

Upload any other supporting evidence to demonstrate previous or current experience in the creative industries.  

Supporting documents may include, but are not limited to: 

  • a Certificate of Completion and transcript of results for a related creative industries qualification (e.g. visual arts, fashion, design). 
  • a Statement of Attainment or transcript of results for partial completion of prior studies in photography or a related creative industries qualification.  
  • a detailed resume outlining your formal and/or volunteer experience in the industry.  
  • a detailed personal statement regarding your experience in photography (maximum 250 words).
Submission instructions

Upload your folio as:

  • A single PDF (maximum size 10MB). Please ensure to include the page number, and your full name and application number on each page.

OR

  • Provide a URL to your folio (please provide a password if applicable). All images must be contained and visible on one webpage.

You must have successfully completed the RMIT Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging or an equivalent qualification.

You may also be considered if you have an industry experience equivalent to a Certificate IV in photography and photo imaging, visual arts, or design.

NOTE: Applicants applying via industry experience must present a supporting folio that demonstrates a variety of lighting and digital post-production techniques.

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

Pre-selection kit: You are required to submit a completed pre-selection kit (300kb PDF) along with your application

Please note: Pre-selection kit is only required for applicants applying for direct entry on the basis of industry experience.

To study this program you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 5.5 (with no individual band below 5.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 50 (with minimum of 5 in Reading, 5 in Listening, 14 in Speaking and 15 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 42 (with no communication band less than 36)
  • C1 Advanced: minimum of 162 with no less than 154 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Upper Intermediate at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred degree. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

Explore the pathway finder
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This course offers pathway options. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, a formal pathway might be your way in.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Graduates of this course will be guaranteed entry into the course/s below.

For more information, explore our Pathway finder, or contact Study@RMIT.

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You are guaranteed entry to this program when you successfully complete the Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

You are guaranteed entry to the Bachelor of Arts (Photography) with 1 or 2 semesters of credit (depending on the semester you commence, equivalent to 96 credit points) when you successfully complete the Diploma in Photography and Digital Imaging.

 Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry to other RMIT vocational study or undergraduate programs.

Fees

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Tuition fees

The tuition fees you will pay for this program will depend on whether you are offered a Victorian Government subsidised place or a full-fee place. To find out if you are eligible for a government subsidised place, follow the steps at How to check if you are eligible.

  • 2025 government subsidised place: AU$11,750* per annum
  • 2025 full-fee place: AU$18,000* per annum

*Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.

Fee finder

Use our fee finder to get an estimate of your fees for this program.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

The student tuition fees as displayed by the fee finder are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Eligibility Exemption criteria

**The Victorian Government is currently waiving three (3) eligibility criteria around prior qualifications. This means that more people who want to study a vocational education program at RMIT, and who have studied previously, will be able to access a government subsidised place in a program. Find out how to check your eligibility

Defer your payment

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.

Payments and refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

VET Student Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.

How does a VET Student Loan work?

If your VET Student Loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT your tuition fees on your behalf, up to the maximum loan amount for your program.

Your VET Student Loan becomes part of your VETSL debt. You will start repaying your accumulated VETSL debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is adjusted each year (this also applies if you are still studying).

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology advises that:

  • VET student loans will not be approved for students who do not meet eligibility requirements; and
  • a VET student loan gives rise to a HELP debt that continues to be a debt due to the Commonwealth until it is repaid.

For more information see VET Student Loans or Study Assist.

VET Student Loan cap

If your program is eligible for the VET Student Loan scheme and has a loan cap that doesn’t cover the total amount of the tuition fees for your program, then you’ll need to pay RMIT the difference by the due date once you exceed the cap.

It’s easy for you to keep track of your VET Student Loan debt, and you can choose to make upfront payments at any time before the census date. 

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information