Introduction
It’s a common misconception that artists and design professionals are poorly paid, or have to work part-time jobs just to get by. What most people don’t realise is that creative thinking is a highly prized attribute in practically every industry, and there is a multitude of opportunities available to those who study design and art.
Design and its principles have a greater impact on our lives than we might imagine. From our physical surroundings and infrastructure to the things we wear and buy, everything around us is embedded with design. Design is among Australia’s fastest growing industries, and progressive and collaborative thinking is in demand across major sectors including education, health, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Why study Design in Australia?
- Quality education system
In order to get the best training, applicants are encouraged to choose an institution with the best educational and training providers. Australian universities are often found amongst the top one percent of educational institutions internationally.
- Thriving art centre
The local art scene is strong with art exhibitions gathering millions of visitors per year, even surpassing spectators in football fields. Furthermore, there has been a significant rise in people participating in the scene. Anyone who wishes to start their creative industry career will find themselves in the right market for it.
- Work while you study
A common perk for international students studying in Australia is the opportunity to work whilst you are enrolled in your course. You can work up to twenty hours per week, which means you can earn extra money to support your stay in the country and gain valuable work experience at the same time.
- Post-Study Work Visa
By studying 2 years or more in a higher education Design degree, students will be eligible for a 2-4-year Post-study Work Visa. Graduates can utilise these visa opportunities to get more work experience.
Career outcomes after graduation
- Fashion Designer
- Fashion Stylist
- Merchandiser
- Design Researcher
- Interaction Designer
- Mobile App Designer
- Visualisation Expert
- Exhibition Designer
- Interior Designer
- Landscape Planner
- Artist
Course Options
- Diploma of Design
- Bachelor of Design
- Graduate Certificate in Design
- Graduate Diploma in Design
- Master of Design
Entry Requirements
- For the Diploma course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or equivalent and attained IELTS 5.5
- For the Bachelor’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or a Diploma course and attained IELTS 6.5
- For the Master’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree and attained IELTS 6.5.
Note: Normally, a portfolio will be required for applying to a design-related program.
What courses might you study for your Design degree in Australia?
- Design Concepts
- Design histories and futures
- Visual media
- Business practices in creative industries
- Architectural design
- Fashion design
- Industrial design
- Interaction design
- Professional practice
Expected salary as a Designer in Australia
The medium base annual salary for a graphic designer is AU$84,737.
Entry-level positions start at AU$67,500 per year, while most experienced workers make up to AU$107,089 annually.
(Statistics from telent.com)
School Recommendations
Diploma Level
Griffith College
Billy Blue at Torrens University
UTS College
RMIT University
Queensland University of Technology
Bachelor Level
Queensland University of Technology – Bachelor of Design
Griffith University – Bachelor of Design
University of Queensland – Bachelor of Design
RMIT University – Bachelor of Design
University of Technology Sydney – Bachelor of Design
Master’s Level
Griffith University – Master of Design
RMIT – Master of Animation, Games and Interactivity / Master of Design Innovation and Technology / Master of Communication Design / Master of Design Futures / Master of Interior Design
Billy Blue at Torrens University – Master of Design (Advanced)
Interested in studying Design in Australia?
Contact SOL Edu today for free counselling, and a free application process!