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CUA50720 | CRICOS: 105823K

Diploma of Graphic Design

Embrace your creative flair with this hands-on qualification. This comprehensive course is ideal for people wanting to work in the fast-paced world of graphic design, digital design and visual communications.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast Sunshine Coast
WAYS TO STUDY On campus Online International
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 1 year View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Concession

Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

$13,510
Subsidised

There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

$14,860
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$19,365
International

This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

$21,800
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, there's strong future growth predicted for a range of digital creative roles including graphic and web designers and illustrators. There's likely to be around 27,000 jobs created in these occupations over the next five years.

In this course you will gain a diverse range of skills in technical and theoretical design principles and their application in everyday design. Expand on your creative talents through practical exercises in typography, branding, packaging, digital and online design, illustration and portfolio design, all while working in a collaborative, studio environment.

Completion of this course will award you the skills you need to work individually or collaboratively as a graphic designer, digital artist or illustrator within the creative industries environment. Successful completion also provides great articulation opportunities into higher education courses.

What can I do?

  • Typesetter
  • Creative Entrepreneur
  • Illustrator
  • Digital Artist
  • Graphic Designer

Course outcome:

CUA50720 Diploma of Graphic Design

Pathways to university

With our diploma-to-degree pathways you can jump straight into the second year of a related bachelor’s degree at some of Australia's top universities. This diploma will also give you one year of credit and a provisional place in the Bachelor of Digital Design (Visual Communication Design) delivered in Brisbane in partnership with the University of Canberra.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 10 elective units from the list below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAACD531
    Refine drawing and other visual representation tools
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAACD531
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use drawing and other visual representation tools to develop, refine and communicate ideas for creative work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Refine drawing and other visual representation tools
    (Image, Type and Illustration cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUADES413
    Develop and extend design skills and practice
    UNIT CODE :
    CUADES413
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and extend skills as a practising designer.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop and extend design skills and practice
    (Packaging cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD501
    Research visual communication history and theory
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD501
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to research visual communication history and theory and to apply that research to own professional practice
  • UNIT NAME
  • Research visual communication history and theory
    (Image, Type and Illustration cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD502
    Produce graphic designs for 2-D and 3-D applications
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD502
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and produce a body of two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) graphic design work in response to a variety of visual communication challenges.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Produce graphic designs for 2-D and 3-D applications
    (Packaging cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD503
    Produce typographic design solutions
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD503
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce professional typography for a wide range of communication needs.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Produce typographic design solutions
    (Image, Type and Illustration cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD514
    Create and manipulate graphics
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD514
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create and manipulate graphics using a combination of creative design skills and technical software proficiency.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Create and manipulate graphics
    (Digital communication cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD515
    Design and manipulate complex layouts
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD515
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to design complex publication layouts by combining creative design skills with technical software proficiency.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Design and manipulate complex layouts
    (Print design cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAGRD516
    Develop graphic design practice to meet industry needs
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAGRD516
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop an industry focus for graphic design practice and to adapt that practice to meet current and emerging industry opportunities.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop graphic design practice to meet industry needs

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR513
    Present a body of own creative work
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR513
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use creative, technical and project management skills to produce a professional and innovative presentation of own creative work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Present a body of own creative work

  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera
On campus with some online
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Coomera

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
  • You will study online however your classes will be delivered in real time via a scheduled timetable. You will interact with your teachers and other students using programs like Zoom. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Online virtual classroom
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Online virtual classroom

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    100%
  • On Campus Time
    0%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Concession: $13,510

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $14,860

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $19,365

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

Yes
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Zoom
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera
On campus with some online
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Coomera

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $21,800

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50720)
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
VET Student Loan - $18,097 cap

The VET Student Loans program assists eligible students enrolled in approved courses to pay their tuition fees.  The Australian Government charges full fee-paying (non-subsidised) students a 20 per cent loan fee in addition to their tuition fees.  A VET Student Loan is a debt that must be repaid.

Learn more
International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

Entry requirements

To enter this qualification, individuals must provide evidence of their technical skills and ability to:

  • produce multiple examples of graphic design work that respond effectively to different design challenges
  • produce typography that supports the overall design solution
  • use graphic design industry software

Skills may have been acquired through personal or work experience, or through formal study.

Selection criteria

Domestic and International students

To apply for this course you must present a collection of work, which demonstrates an interest in art and design. Folio pieces may include both hand rendered and computer-generated images, through the use of software from the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite. You may also wish to include developmental sketches and process work as well as the finished work.

If you are under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions apply.

Portfolio compulsory items:
Develop a logo using an industry standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud Suite.
For example, you may select one of the following words:

  • Nature Designs
  • Book Time
  • Viking Delivery

Note: Submit the original file using an industry standard software and either a JPEG or PDF.

Develop a piece of typography using an industry standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud Suite.
For example, you may select one of the following words:

  • Tattoo You
  • Apollo Eyewear
  • Newsroom Cafe

Note: Submit the original file using an industry standard software and either a JPEG or PDF.

Your folio should include 2-5 images of your choice. These could include images of your:

  • Paintings, drawings or Illustrations
  • Sculpture
  • Photography
  • Photoshop or digital work

Note: Submit either JPEG’s or PDF’s.

You must submit this electronically at time of application or via the Student Portal and MUST contain a zip file of all folio items.

NOTE: The use of template-based designs is not acceptable evidence.

Students who have completed the CUA30715 or CUA30720 Certificate III in Design Fundamentals may use their work as a portfolio.

 

International Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students:

  • English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
  • Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software. This equipment and software are available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some design resources and a portable external hard drive (500MG minimum). Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation. 
Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of approximately $300.

It is also recommended that you have access to a computer capable of running Adobe Creative Suite software. This software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more