Diploma of Graphic Design

This course will give you the technical skills and knowledge to produce artwork for commercial purposes using both traditional and electronic methods.

You’ll develop a sound understanding of the design process and be ready to solve a range of visual communication problems.

During your studies, you’ll learn to create design concepts from a brief both efficiently and economically.

You’ll build your personal portfolio while developing specialist skills for advertising and multimedia in:

digital design illustration calligraphy layout typography context.

You’ll also become proficient in the use of industry-standard software including Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

To be awarded CUA50715 Diploma of Graphic Design, a student must successfully complete a total of nineteen (19) units of competency, comprising of:

• nine (9) core units, and;
• ten (10) elective units, of which:
• six (6) units must be selected from the electives listed within the CUA50715 Diploma of Graphic Design qualification;
• four (4) units may be selected from the remaining listed electives or any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course at Certificate IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma level.

Elective units must be relevant to the work environment and the qualification, maintain the integrity of the AQF alignment and contribute to a valid vocational outcome.

Course structure and units

CORE UNITS

• BSBDES403 - Develop and extend design skills and practice
• CUAACD501 - Refine drawing and other visual representation tools
• CUAGRD501 - Research visual communication history and theory
• CUAGRD502 - Produce graphic designs for 2-D and 3-D applications
• CUAGRD503 - Produce typographic design solutions
• CUAGRD504 - Create and manipulate graphics
• CUAGRD505 - Design and manipulate complex layouts
• CUAGRD506 - Develop graphic design practice to meet industry needs
• CUAPPR503 - Present a body of own creative work

ELECTIVE UNITS

• BSBCRT401 - Articulate, present and debate ideas
• BSBCRT501 - Originate and develop concepts
• BSBDES501 - Implement design solutions
• BSBWOR501 - Manage personal work priorities and professional development
• CUAACD506 - Refine 2-D design ideas and processes
• CUAACD512 - Work with photomedia in creative practice
• CUADIG304 - Create visual design components
• CUADIG403 - Create user interfaces
• CUAPHI513 - Employ colour management in a digital imaging workplace

Imported

• CUAPHI507 - Produce media photo images

Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee you entry into this course. Some courses receive more applications than the number of places available. In this situation we will also assess your education, work and other relevant experience.

If you do not meet the minimum requirements you may be eligible for one of our special admission programs. We also encourage you to explore our study pathways to help you reach your goal.

Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.

Entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of their ability to:- produce multiple examples of graphic design work that respond effectively to different design challenges;- produce typography that supports the overall design solution, and; - use graphic design industry software. Skills may have been acquired through personal or work experience, or through formal study such as the completion of VCE Visual Communication Design, the Certificate IV in Screen and Media or the Certificate IV in Design.Prior to enrolment, all applicants will be required to complete a literacy and numeracy assessment to assist with determining eligibility and to identify learning support needs.

Pathways from VU courses

There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.

Find out more about pathways and credits.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

You may be able to complete your qualification sooner through formal recognition of your existing skills. This is known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

To receive RPL, we assess your previous work, education and life experiences against recognised qualifications. Applications for RPL can be made prior to enrolling.

Call us on 1300 TAFE VP (1300 823 387) to discuss RPL options with the course manager.

This qualification reflects the role of individuals who combine technical, creative and conceptual skills to create designs that meet client requirements and solve a range of visual communication challenges. Practice at this level is underpinned by application of design theory and practice and the ability to analyse and synthesise information from a range of sources to generate design solutions.