Graduate Certificate Graphic Design Full Time

Graduate Certificate in Design

at Curtin University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

103009A

CRICOS provider code

00301J

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

26 weeks

Tuition (whole course)

A$21,432 total

Per year

A$42,864/yr

Intake

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

About this program

Curtin University's Graduate Certificate in Design offers the chance to sharpen design skills in a short, focused qualification. Over 26 weeks, students explore the core principles of graphic design, including visual communication, digital techniques and creative problem-solving. Coursework balances theory and hands-on project work, letting students build a professional portfolio suitable for Australian industry or further study.

Structured as a recognised Australian graduate certificate, this course is divided into units of study, each carrying credit points towards the qualification. Content may include units on design thinking, user experience and advanced computer graphics. Assessment emphasises practical application, such as developing design briefs, presenting digital prototypes and working on real or simulated industry projects, which reflects how design is practised in Australia.

This course suits people with a background in design seeking formal recognition, or anyone with expertise in other fields looking to pivot into graphic design. The curriculum develops technical skills in visual software, conceptual development, and communication, preparing graduates to contribute creatively in workplaces or consultancies. Australian design industry links often allow students to gain insight into current practice, and Curtin’s location in Perth offers ties with both local businesses and cultural organisations.

International students enrolled in this course can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, meeting requirements for the Student visa. After graduation, students may consider staying longer in Australia through the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa post-study work stream, subject to eligibility. All admission or progression requirements, including English language proficiency, should be verified on Curtin University's official website.

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

Graphic Designer in design studios or advertising agencies
Digital Content Creator for media organisations
User Interface Designer for technology or design firms
Visual Communication Specialist in marketing teams
Junior Design roles in not-for-profit, education or government sectors

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Certificate in Design at Curtin University?

It typically takes 26 weeks, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$21,432 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Graphic Designer in design studios or advertising agenciesDigital Content Creator for media organisationsUser Interface Designer for technology or design firmsVisual Communication Specialist in marketing teamsJunior Design roles in not-for-profit, education or government sectors

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