Diploma of Graphic Design

The Diploma of Graphic Design at TAFE Queensland is a hands-on qualification for people who want to work in design. It runs for 50 weeks and sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it's practical, job-focused and sits below a bachelor degree but above a certificate IV. You'll spend your time on the tools and software that studios actually use, building a portfolio you can show employers.

You'll study units in typography, layout, branding, digital illustration, and print and screen production. There's a strong emphasis on the design process, researching a brief, developing concepts, presenting ideas to a client, and refining work through feedback. You'll learn Adobe Creative Cloud applications and other industry software, and you'll work on projects that mirror real studio jobs, from logo design to packaging to social media campaigns. Assessment is based on practical projects rather than exams, so your marks come from the work you produce.

The diploma is delivered over 50 weeks, which typically includes scheduled breaks. It's a full-time load and you'll be in a classroom or studio environment with access to TAFE Queensland's design facilities. Work-integrated learning is part of the deal, you may complete a placement or industry project with a design studio, advertising agency or in-house creative team, which gives you professional experience before you graduate. TAFE Queensland has strong links with local industry, so projects often come from real clients.

This course suits school leavers who want a practical start in design, career changers who need a portfolio and technical skills, and people already working in related areas like marketing or print who want to formalise their design abilities. It's also a pathway to further study, you can use the diploma to apply for a bachelor degree with credit, meaning you may not have to start from year one. If you're an international student, you'll need to meet English requirements (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard for courses at this level) and you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while you study. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Check the official CRICOS page and TAFE Queensland's website for exact entry requirements, tuition and start dates.

• Graphic designer, working in design studios, advertising agencies or in-house creative teams across Australia.
• Junior designer or studio assistant, supporting senior designers on client projects, preparing files and doing production work.
• Digital designer, creating visuals for websites, social media and online campaigns.
• Branding assistant, helping develop logos, style guides and brand collateral.
• Print production assistant, preparing artwork for print, liaising with printers and checking proofs.
• Freelance designer, taking on your own clients in areas like logo design, brochures or social media graphics.

Industries that hire graphic design graduates include advertising and marketing agencies, publishing, print and signage, web and digital agencies, film and television, retail, and government departments. Many designers also work in-house for organisations that need ongoing creative support.