Introduction

Interaction design is a discipline that focuses on creating meaningful and engaging interactions between users and digital or physical products, systems, or services. It involves designing the way users interact with a product or interface to ensure it is efficient and enjoyable. 

The main goal of interaction design is to enhance the user experience (UX) by making interactions seamless, easy-to-understand, and satisfying. Interaction Design goes beyond visual communication design to address how users perceive, comprehend, and interact with a system. 

There’s a huge overlap between Interaction Design and UX Design (or User Experience Design). After all, UX design is about shaping the experience of using a product, and a large part of that experience involves some interaction between the user and the product. For this reason, someone who studies Interaction Design can also have a career as a UX Designer. 

According to PayScale, the median annual income for Interaction designers is AU$73,790. There’s an increased demand for Interaction Design and UX skills globally, especially in regions like Europe, the United States, Canada, and Australia. In many countries, demand outweighs supply for skilled professionals in these areas. 

Why study Interaction Design in Australia?

  • Top Rankings  

Australian universities are well-known of their teaching quality, and their qualifications are recognised worldwide. According to QS Ranking 2023, there are 7 Australian universities listed among the world’s top 100 for the Design discipline. 

  • No specific background needed.  

If you are a high school graduate, you can start with a Diploma or Associate degree in related studies and continue your way into a Bachelor’s course, or you can use your final high school examination results to directly apply for a Bachelor’s degree.  

If you have already completed a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline, you can still apply for a Master of Interaction Design. Contact us at [email protected] or fill out the enquiry form to receive more information about this option.    

  • Multiple start dates  

Australian universities will normally have 2 or 3 intakes each year, which makes it more flexible for international students to commence their program based on their individual situation. Multiple start dates also mean more flexibility with the different units and payments. 

  • Stay longer in Australia  

By studying Interaction Design for 2 years or more in higher education (a Bachelor, Master, or PhD degree), students will be eligible for a 2-6-year Postgraduate Visa (485). Graduates can use these visa opportunities to get more work experience. For Interaction Design students, they can also use this working visa to prepare for their future migration options.  

What Interaction Design courses might you study in Australia?

  • Diploma in Interaction Design 

A Diploma in Interaction Design is a specialized academic program that focuses on teaching students the fundamental principles, skills, and techniques required to design user-friendly and engaging digital experiences. This diploma course typically covers various aspects of interaction design, user experience (UX) design, and user interface (UI) design. 

  • Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design) 

A Bachelor of Design in Interaction Design is a comprehensive undergraduate degree program that focuses on teaching students advanced skills and knowledge in designing interactive digital experiences. This program typically spans over three to four years and offers a blend of theoretical study, practical projects, and hands-on experience to prepare students for a career in the field of interaction design. 

  • Graduate Certificate in Interaction Design  

A Graduate Certificate in Interaction Design is a short, specialized postgraduate program that provides individuals with the opportunity to develop expertise in the field of interaction design. This certificate program is typically designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or have relevant professional experience. The program offers focused coursework and practical training to enhance their skills in designing user-centric digital experiences. 

  • Graduate Diploma in Interaction Design 

A Graduate Diploma in Interaction Design is an advanced postgraduate program that provides students with specialised knowledge and practical skills in the field of interaction design. This diploma program is typically designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline and wish to further specialise in interaction design or professionals seeking to transition into the field. 

  • Master of Interaction Design 

A Master of Interaction Design is an advanced and specialized postgraduate degree program that focuses on providing in-depth knowledge and expertise in the field of interaction design. This program is typically designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or have relevant professional experience in design or a related field. 

If you want to know which program/s is best for your future career and for your migration plan, contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] or fill in the enquiry form. We will offer you free consultation and free application process.  

 

Where can you study Interaction Design in Australia?

Many universities in Australia offer Interaction Design course. Below are some examples:  

 

Bachelor’s Level:  

University of Canberra – Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design) 

Torrens University – Bachelor of UX & Web Design

Queensland University of Technology – Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design) 

 

Master’s Level  

La Trobe University – Master of Digital Media (Interaction Design) 

University of Technology Sydney – Master of Interaction Design (Extension) 

Monash University – Master of Interaction Design 

University of Queensland – Master of Interaction Design 

University of Sydney – Master of Interaction Design and Electronic Arts (with specialisation) 

What are entry requirements for international students to study Interaction Design courses?

  • For a Diploma course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or equivalent and attained IELTS 5.5  
  • For a Bachelor’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or a Diploma and attained IELTS between 6.0 / 6.5.  
  • For a Master’s course, normally applicants are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree and attained IELTS between 6.0 / 6.5.  

Not sure if you meet the entry requirements of your preferred interaction design course? Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Brisbane, today! Our team will offer you free consultation and free application process.    

What are career outcomes after graduation from Interaction Design courses?

Graduating from Interaction Design courses can lead to a variety of promising career outcomes. Here are some potential career outcomes after graduation: 

  • Interaction Designer 
  • UX (user experience) Designer 
  • UI (user interface) Designer 
  • Visual Designer 
  • Digital Designer 
  • Usability Researcher 
  • Information Architect 
  • UI Artist 
  • UX/UI Developer 
  • Content Strategist 
  • Web Designer/Developer 
  • Web/Mobile Designer 
  • Front-end Web Developer/Designer 
  • Back-end Web Developer/Designer 

How to pass skills assessments for interaction design degree holders in Australia?

For immigration purposes, interaction design degree holders need to pass a skill assessment assessed by one of approved authorities in Australia. To know which organisation/authority that you should submit your skills assessment for, you need to clarify what is your occupation.  

Category 1: Skills assessments assessed by ACS 

In 2023, web developer is on the occupation list for migration purposes, the authority for skills assessment for this occupation is ACS (Australia Computer Society). Below are the assessment criteria:  

(1) For those who have completed an Australian bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT major 

  • If you obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher from an Australian university, with a ICT major which is closely related to your nominated occupation, then you only need 1-year relevant work experience after the completion date in order to apply for Post Australian Study Skills Assessment. Or applicants could choose to complete a ACS Professional Year program to replace the 1-year relevant work experience requirement. 

(2) For those who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT major overseas 

  • If the ICT courses you took are closely related to your nominated occupation, then you need a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience within the past 10 years, or you must have 4 years of relevant work experience in your previous employment history. 
  • If the ICT courses you took are not closely related to your nominated occupation, then you must get at least 4 years working to be eligible for general skilled assessment. 

(3)    For those who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher with an ICT minor 

  • If you have completed a course with an ICT minor that is closely related to your nominated occupation, then you must meet one of the following requirements: (1) you must have at least 5 years working in the relevant field in the past 10 years, or (2) you must gain 6 years of work experience in the industry any time previously. 
  • If you have completed a course with an ICT minor which is not closely related to your nominated occupation, then you are required to have at least 6 years working in the relevant field. 

(4)    For those who complete a Diploma/Advanced Diploma/Associate Course 

  • If the applicant has completed Diploma, Advance Diploma or Associate Diploma courses with an ICT Major that is closely related to the nominated occupation, then they are required 5 years relevant work experience completed within the past 10 years; or 6 years relevant work experience completed anytime in their previous work history. 
  • If the applicant has completed a course with an ICT Major that is not closely related to your nominated occupation, they must have 6 years relevant work experience completed anytime in their previous work history. 

 

Category 2: Skills assessment assessed by VETASSESS 

If your occupation is Web Designer (ANZSCO Code 232414), the authority to assess your skills assessment is VETASSESS. To have a positive skills assessment outcome, you need to meet the following criteria:  

 

(1)    For those who have completed a Bachelor or higher degree with a field highly relevant to the nominated occupation:  

  • You must have at least one year of post-qualification employment at an appropriate skill level, 
  • your experience must be undertaken in the last five years, 
  • you must work 20 hours or more per week, and 
  • your job must be highly relevant to the nominated occupation. 

 

(2)    For those who have completed a Bachelor or higher degree with a field highly that is not relevant to the nominated occupation:  

  • You must have at least three year of post-qualification employment at an appropriate skill level. However, if you have an additional qualification at least Diploma level in a highly relevant field, you are required to have two years of experience only. 
  • your experience must be undertaken in the last five years, 
  • you must work 20 hours or more per week, and 
  • your job must be highly relevant to the nominated occupation. 

 

Please note that in case your employment has occurred before you get your qualification, then five years of highly relevant experience are needed, in addition to at least one year of highly relevant employment within the last five years. 

 

It is important to note that interaction design courses cover broad knowledge and skills, so you can apply for numerous occupations after graduation. For skill assessment and migration purposes, you should choose a major and occupation that are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).  

 

Want to know if your qualification and work experience are eligible for a migration skill assessment? Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] or fill out the inquiry form. Our team will reach out to you within 24 hours at the latest!  

What is the PR pathway for an interaction design degree holders?

Step 1: Apply for a 485 visa 

After completing a at least 2 years interaction design course, you are eligible to apply for visa 485 (Post Graduate Work Stream). You are required to have at least IELTS overall 6.5 with no band score under 5.5 in the past 1 year before you lodge your visa application.

Under visa 485, you can stay in Australia for 2-4 years depending on your degree. However, if you undertook and completed at least  2 years of study in a ‘Regional Area’ such as the Gold Coast, Adelaide or Perth, you can be eligible for an additional 1 or 2 years of the 485 Visa Thus, you will have more time to prepare yourself for permanent residence (PR) or a temporary visa that can lead to a PR. 

Step 2: Apply for a PR or a visa that can lead to a PR 

The pathways that can help you migrate to Australia after you have completed an accredited interaction design course in Australia depends on occupation that you take after graduation.  

If your occupation is web developer, you can apply for one of the below visas:  

  • 190 – Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – is a permanent residence visa but you need a nomination from one of Australian states or territories to apply for this visa. Each state may have its own occupation list and additional requirements, so you must investigate if you meet all the state’s eligibility criteria before asking for a nomination.   
  • 482 – Temporary Skilled Shortage (subclass 482) Medium Term Stream – allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years. To apply for this visa, you must have an employer who is willing to sponsor you. You will have a high chance of getting a PR after a 482 visa.   
  • 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) (subclass 494) is applicable for you if you have a regional employer who is willing to sponsor you. You must accumulate at least 3 years working as a civil engineer and obtain a relevant skills assessment.  

If your occupation is web designer, you can apply for one of the below visas:  

  • 190 – Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) – is a permanent residence visa but you need a nomination from one of Australian states or territories to apply for this visa. Each state may have its own occupation list and additional requirements, so you must investigate if you meet all the state’s eligibility criteria before asking for a nomination.   
  • 491 – Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 491) is not permanent, but it can lead to a PR (visa 191). You must commit to stay and work in your nominating regional Australia for a minimal period of time and achieve at least 65 points to be apply for this visa.    
  • 482 – Temporary Skilled Shortage (subclass 482) Medium Term Stream – allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years. To apply for this visa, you must have an employer who is willing to sponsor you. You will have a high chance of getting a PR after a 482 visa.   
  • 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) (subclass 494) is applicable for you if you have a regional employer who is willing to sponsor you. You must accumulate at least 3 years working as a civil engineer and obtain a relevant skills assessment. 

Contact SOL Edu today at [email protected] or fill out the enquiry form to know which visa option is best for you! 

FAQs:

What is interaction design?

Interaction design is the process of creating meaningful and intuitive interactions between users and digital products or systems. It focuses on improving the user experience by designing interfaces and interactions that are efficient, user-friendly and pleasing. 

Should I study interaction design or visual communication design?  

The decision to study Interaction Design or Visual Communication Design depends on your interests, career goals, and the specific skills and areas of design you want to focus on. Both fields have their unique characteristics, and understanding the differences between them can help you make an informed decision: 

Interaction Design 

  • Focus: Interaction Design centers around creating user-friendly and engaging digital experiences. It involves designing interactive interfaces for websites, mobile apps, software applications, and other digital products or services. 
  • Skills: Interaction Designers need to have a strong understanding of user behavior, user research, information architecture, prototyping, and usability testing. They focus on designing meaningful user interactions and user experiences. 
  • Career Opportunities: Interaction Designers typically work in technology-driven industries, such as software development companies, UX design agencies, web and app development companies, and technology startups. 

Visual Communication Design 

  • Focus: Visual Communication Design emphasizes creating visually appealing and communicative designs for various mediums, including print, digital, branding, advertising, and marketing. 
  • Skills: Visual Communication Designers are proficient in graphic design, typography, layout design, illustration, branding, and storytelling through visuals. They focus on conveying messages and emotions through visual elements. 
  • Career Opportunities: Visual Communication Designers can work in advertising agencies, design studios, marketing departments, publishing companies, branding firms, and other creative industries. 

What tools do interaction designers use?

Interaction designers use a variety of tools, including prototyping software (e.g., Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD), wireframing tools, design systems, and user testing platforms to create and validate their designs. 

Is interaction design a good career in Australia?

Yes, Interaction Design is a promising and in-demand career in Australia. The digital landscape has been rapidly growing in recent years, and with the increasing reliance on technology and digital products, there is a significant demand for skilled Interaction Designers. Moreover, the salary for interaction design related occupation is competitive, an experienced interaction designer can earn up to AUD120,000 per year.  

What is the cost for bachelor of interaction design in Australia?

The cost of a Bachelor of Interaction Design in Australia can vary significantly depending on the university or college you choose and the duration of the program. If you study a bachelor of interaction design in one of G8 Australia universities, the tuition fee can be around AUD 45,000 to 49,000 per year. However, if you choose a lower ranking university, you only need to pay 30,00 – 40,000 per year for the tuition fee.  

Are there any portfolio requirements for admission to the interaction design program?

Some universities offering Interaction Design programs require applicants to submit a portfolio as part of the admission process. The portfolio serves as a crucial component for evaluating an applicant’s design skills, creativity, and potential as an Interaction Designer. It allows the admissions committee to assess the applicant’s previous design work and understand their design thinking process. Curtin University, for example, requires students to submit a portfolio or attend an interview if they don’t meet the minimum course requirements.  

Want to know which universities require a portfolio? Contact SOL Edu at [email protected] or fill out the enquiry form! Our team will offer you free counselling and free admission process!  

What is expected salary for an Interaction Designer in Australia?

The medium base annual salary for a graduate in Interaction Design is around ADU$91,000 annually (Statistics from PayScale Australia). However, the salary can vary based on your qualification and experience.  

Interested in studying Interaction Design in Australia?  

Contact SOL Edu, one of the best education agencies in Brisbane, today for free counselling, and a free application process!