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ARB303 | CRICOS: 102462K | Provider: 00212K

Bachelor of Digital Design (Visual Communication Design)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Harness your creativity with this hands-on degree and learn how to communicate and organise information in visually accessible ways across a wide variety of media and contexts.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 29 Jul 2024 Duration: 3 years View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Annual indicative cost
$8,020

Course overview

Harness your creativity and learn how to communicate and organise information across a wide variety of media and contexts. Delivered in partnership with the University of Canberra, this degree has a strong focus on visual communication in the global marketplace and how to design for both business and consumer audiences.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, demand for graphic design specialists is increasing. With over 63,000 job openings expected over the next five years, the industry is growing consistently.

Throughout this course you'll develop a thorough knowledge of typography, logotype design, layout, publication design, environmental graphics, packaging and digital design. You'll gain skills required to employ innovative uses of different visual and emerging media types and develop effective design solutions for specific audiences. Through collaboration and live industry briefs you'll also have the opportunity to combine university thinking with hands-on learning. 

Upon successful completion of this course you'll have also developed a portfolio of work and be well equipped to take on a variety of design roles.

What can I do?

  • Graphic Designer
  • Visual Designer
  • Multimedia Designer
  • Digital Designer
  • Illustrator
  • Design Researcher
  • Design Strategist
  • Creative Director

Course outcome:

ARB303 Bachelor of Digital Design (Visual Communication Design)

UC Brisbane Digital Design Degrees

Gain practical experience and develop key employability skills including communication, teamwork, and critical, creative and strategic thinking. Learn from industry professionals whilst studying in Brisbane, graduate with real-world experience, ready to impress employers and launch your digital design career.

Specialised training facilities

Our degrees are delivered here at TAFE Queensland, on our modern campuses, using world-class facilities and equipment. Across creative, dentistry, engineering and information technology, our learning spaces are at the forefront of new technology, offering students the benefit of learning on industry-leading equipment.

What you will study

If you have completed the below diploma, you will gain up to a year's credit towards this qualification:

This is a typical study pattern and may differ depending on credit received. Please note not all units are offered in each teaching period.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

Year 1 Semester 1

  • Year 1 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11063
    Principles of Typography and Layout - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11063
    Unit description :
    This unit aims to acquaint students with the significance of typography within the discipline of visual communication design, its history and as a continuing practice. The unit examines the 20th century art and design movements which have defined the field of typography. Through a mix of research and practical exploration, students connect historical typographic foundations with contemporary practices and technologies. Students examine a diversity of typographic applications from the pragmatics of long-form document design to the expressive capabilities of display faces and custom type forms.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Principles of Typography and Layout - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11611
    Interactive Media, Design and Prototypes - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11611
    Unit description :
    The unit will provide students with an applied introduction to interaction and user-centred design. Students will develop web-based prototypes, demonstrating understanding of theoretical and practical concepts. The unit will explore the use of interactive technologies in the creation of web-based prototypes. Basic coding will provide students with the skills to demonstrate techniques that are transferable across diverse mediums. This unit will also introduce students to the human-centred design principles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Interactive Media, Design and Prototypes - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11591
    Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11591
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the diverse opportunities in the world of creative and digital design industries. Aspects that will be considered include: contemporary demands of the industry including social responsibility, ethical and sustainability issues. Through engagement with industry and community, students will gain an understanding of global discipline knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform as responsible, capable creative industry and digital design professionals. Students will start their career awareness and planning through approaches such as five year plans and ePortfolios.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11613
    Visual Ideation and Communication - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11613
    Unit description :
    Students will develop skills and techniques in creating visuals for ideation and communication across diverse creative and design industries. Students will sketch, draw and create digital media, using a variety of tools. The ability to understand, interpret, produce and communicate a response to a design brief is integral to this unit. Students will be able to articulate concepts through drawing, digital media and photography to convey meaning and context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Visual Ideation and Communication - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 1 Semester 2

  • Year 1 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11610
    Evolution of Design - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11610
    Unit description :
    The unit will explore historical and contemporary roles of design in society. Analysis and discussion of design products (including graphics, objects, environments and digital outcomes) can aid in the understanding of trends that have evolved over time. This unit, through the critical analysis of the history of design, will provide an understanding of human-centred design as creative approach to problem solving.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Evolution of Design - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11612
    Introduction to Innovative Design Solutions - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11612
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the design process and evolution of design solutions. Students will be exposed to the fundamentals of design research and identifying user-centred design solutions. This unit will also introduce students to the human-centred design principles. The use of real-world problems will provide students with the application skills required to create a solution to a design problem.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Introduction to Innovative Design Solutions - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11062
    Visual Communication Theory and Principles - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11062
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces ways visual language can be used to convey ideas, information and messages in the fields of communication, interaction and industrial design. During the course of study students learn different theories of visual communication: including human perception, psychology of colour, and principles of design. Consequently, students will engage in applying different theories in designing and evaluating visual content through a series of assignments.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Visual Communication Theory and Principles - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 1

  • Year 2 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11064
    Design for Digital Contexts - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11064
    Unit description :
    This unit considers how principles of visual communication design can be applied within digital contexts. Students will obtain a theoretical understanding of the digital design process and learn how to utilise emerging development methodologies whilst producing highly creative and innovative digital prototypes. This process of development will allow students to understand the fundamental connection between the underlying code and the digital work a user can experience and interact with.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Design for Digital Contexts - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11065
    Visual Branding and Identity Systems - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11065
    Unit description :
    This unit explores the evolution of branding communication and visual logo design globally, which involves design principles; design contexts, project brief and applications integrated into full identity systems. You will create a logo design to communicate the brand identity by contemplating design styles, audience and market segmentation through the ability to showcase the work professionally both to clients and target audiences. Through a combination of research, theory and project work, students engage in a creative program of study focused on the development of contemporary branding practice. In addition, students will apply the understanding of effective contemporary branding, identity systems, logo application to physical objects and digital forms as well as the adaptation of the work to various contexts.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Visual Branding and Identity Systems - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 2

  • Year 2 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11067
    Packaging Design and Communication - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11067
    Unit description :
    This unit examines design elements, forms, materials and applications of packaging design. Students engage in a mix of theoretical and practical production activities to develop critical and applied understanding of communication design for three dimensional application and construction of packaging solutions. The focus of the unit is in using the design process to create practical, commercially appropriate packaging designs.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Packaging Design and Communication - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11068
    Cross-cultural Design Strategy - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11068
    Unit description :
    Cross-cultural design through the understanding of multiple practices and cultural perspectives is essential in the complex global marketplace. Cross-cultural design is the outcome of the transfer of knowledge that occurs when different cultures come together to design solutions to common 'wicked' or complex global problems. This unit looks at creating cross-cultural design strategies for a global audience. Students will prepare in-depth research into cross-cultural social issues to create relevant and culturally appropriate design solutions that explore symbolism, colour, communication and awareness in relation to culturally specific briefs.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Cross-cultural Design Strategy - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11017
    Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11017
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will work with academics, peers and industry partners to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop employability skills and strengthen the disciplinary skills and knowledge needed to contribute to and excel in their professions. Authentic learning experiences will include simulated workplace experiences, industry collaborations, competitions, internships, exhibitions or studio work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 1

  • Year 3 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11066
    Experimental Graphic Design - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11066
    Unit description :
    This unit explores the role of the signs, colours, imagery, and forms and symbols that we use every day to direct and guide us through our physical and digital environments. This area of study is situated at the crossroads of communications, built environment, digital technologies and industrial design. In this unit students develop skills essential for designing way-finding systems, architectural graphics, signage and sign programs, exhibit design, retail design, and themed or branded spaces. Students will explore the use and historical context of universal symbols and info graphics in both a local and global context as a foundation for creating their own system of way finding for an industry-relevant brief.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Experimental Graphic Design - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11018
    Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11018
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will further develop their abilities as agile professionals with the transferable employability skills and critical and creative abilities to work across industries and sectors and craft diverse employment paths. They will integrate disciplinary knowledge with the professional skills required in their industry through authentic simulated or real workplace experiences, international exchanges or industry collaborations or projects.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 2

  • Year 3 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11592
    Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11592
    Unit description :
    This unit prepares students for professional work in the cultural sector and finalises and reviews your ePortfolio. Through practical activities, such as preparing a grant application, developing a team-based project proposal, and researching a cultural organisation, students learn to relate their discipline specific knowledge to a range of professional contexts. The unit will emphasise the significance of multiculturalism, cultural consumption and globalisation as key influences shaping cultural work in the twenty first century.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11069
    Information Visualisation - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11069
    Unit description :
    We live in a society that is both information rich and time poor. There is a high demand for visual designers who are comfortable with the world of big data, who can pick out patterns and stories embedded in big data and present it in enticing and informative ways. In this unit students will learn fundamental principles and skills in representing complex data into meaningful visuals, both static and dynamic; that can be quickly digested and understood by a global audience.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Information Visualisation - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)
Ways to study
  • 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
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
29 Jul 2024
3 years
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Annual indicative cost: $8,020
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. 

29 Jul 2024

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

DURATION

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

3 years

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

Workload

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

Full time up to 5 days per week

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

WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Annual indicative cost: $8,020
Class format

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

Teacher-led, Scheduled

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

VIRTUAL CLASS

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

No

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

ASSESSMENT

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

On-Campus

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

TEACHER COMMS

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

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

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

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Bachelor of Digital Design (Visual Communication Design) (ARB303)

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Bachelor of Digital Design (Visual Communication Design)

COURSE CODE: ARB303
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
HECS help

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme for eligible students studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place, that covers the cost of your tuition fees on your behalf.

Learn more

 

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Admission into this course is based on an entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by the following means:

  • Year 12 ATAR
  • diploma pathway
  • other Australian qualification
  • work experience
  • overseas qualification

We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to university via alternate pathway programs and admission schemes. More information is available on the University of Canberra website.

Resources required

It is recommended that students have access to a reliable internet connection to access the University of Canberra’s online learning system Canvas, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for students to use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Placement

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is embedded within this degree.

Important information

Articulation:

  • Any one-year TAFE Queensland Diploma (or equivalent) can articulate with 24 credit point transfer, which equates to one year full time study (or 8 units).
  • 24 credit point transfer, which can equates to one year of full time study (or 8 units) from any other degree program


Prerequisites for the following units:

11064 Design for Digital Contexts - Level 2
     1.11062 Visual Communication Theory and Principle
     2.11063 Principles of Typography and Layout
    OR equivalent

11065 Visual Branding and Identity Systems - Level 2
    1.11062 Visual Communication Theory and Principle
    2.11063 Principles of Typography and Layout
    OR equivalent

11068 Cross-Cultural Design Strategy - Level 2
    1.11063 Principles of Typography and Layout
    OR equivalent

11067 Packaging Design and Communication - Level 2
    1.11041 Visual Representation Techniques 
    OR equivalent


See condition for the units below:

11017 Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2

Students must have passed 24 credits points in the course AND one of the following units:

10333 Professional Orientation: Arts OR 10334 Professional Orientation Built Environment 
OR 
10335 Professional Orientation: Communication and Media 
OR
10336 Professional Orientation: Design OR 11591 Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and Digital Design)

11066 Experiential Graphic Design - Level 3

Must have passed 18 credit points from:

SM0012 Specialist Major in Visual Communication Design 
AND 
Must have passed 12 credit points from CM0003 Core Major in Design 
OR equivalent

11018 Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3

Students must have passed 36 credits points in the course AND one of the following units: 

10333 Professional Orientation: Arts 
OR 
10334 Professional Orientation: Built Environment 
OR 
10335 Professional Orientation: Communication and Media 
OR 
10336 Professional Orientation: Design 
OR 
11591 Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and Digital Design)

11069 Information Visualisation - Level 3

18 credit points from SM0012 Specialist Major in Visual Communication Design
AND 
12 credit points from CM0003 Core Major in Design 
OR equivalent 


Suggested Electives:
Year 2, Semester 1 - 11593 Creative Practice 1 - Level 1 (3 Credit points)
Year 3, Semester 2 - 11594 Creative Practice 2 - Level 2 (3 Credit points)


Student Services and Amenities Fee:
You will be required to pay a SSAF.


Pathways to Honours:
The Bachelor of Arts and Design (Honours) is open to students who have completed a UC/TAFE QLD partnership degree with at least a grade point average of 5.0 or better (equivalent to a credit average), or students from a three-year degree in a cognate discipline with a relevant major in which they received a grade point average of 5.0 or better.

Pass degree graduates in similar disciplinary fields from other universities, with comparable results, may also be eligible to undertake this honours
degree.

 

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.

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.

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.