Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BGRCD

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115713M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design?

Want a career where every day you put your creative skills to use? Bring ideas to life through innovative design and striking visuals with Adelaide University.

From crafting memorable brand identities and infographics, to packaging solutions, websites and dynamic motion graphics, you’ll transform concepts into powerful messages that inform, influence and inspire.

Work on real-world projects in state-of-the-art design studios, honing your craft while exploring diverse media – from print to digital.

Whether you’re designing for publishing, branding or digital media platforms, an exciting and creative career in communication design is waiting.

Overview

The Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design at Adelaide University gives you the skills to create powerful visual solutions across platforms, media and contexts.

You’ll explore essential areas such as identity design, multimedia design and digital content creation while developing your unique creative style and understanding of the important role design has in today’s world.

The degree emphasises hands-on learning, so you get to work on real-world projects that enhance your portfolio and prepare you for a variety of roles. Throughout your studies, you'll cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are crucial for effective design practice.

You’ll graduate well-prepared for diverse roles such as a graphic designer, web designer, packaging designer, brand strategist, User Interface (UI) designer, User Experience (UX) designer, or art director. With this degree, you’ll confidently enter the workforce, ready to shape visual communication and make a significant impact across industries.

Key features

Learn to blend creativity with strategy to produce captivating visuals that communicate powerful messages.
Develop your own unique design style and learn to adapt it for a variety of audiences and platforms.
Master industry standard design tools.
Collaborate with real-world clients through hands-on projects, building a professional portfolio before you graduate.
Learn from experienced professionals and explore the latest ideas in visual communication, branding, publishing and digital design.
Exit with a diploma after one year, or an associate degree after two years.

What you'll learn

In the Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design at Adelaide University, you’ll explore the dynamic world of visual communication.

In your first year, you'll build a solid foundation with core courses that introduce design thinking and key design principles, tools and practices. You will study topics like:

Digital design principles and methods
Design perspectives
Drawing for art and design
Typography.

As you progress into your second year, the focus shifts to more specialist courses where you'll learn skills in critical thinking and creative process, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for design. You’ll also explore principles in user experience (UX) design, information design, packaging design and gain advanced typography skills.

Your final year prepares you for industry and includes projects for real-world clients, competitions and opportunities for industry placement. You’ll tackle advanced design challenges that refine your skills for various roles after graduation. You’ll study courses in:

Design for digital interaction
Critical design practice
Graphic communication design professional practice.

Throughout the program, you'll participate in collaborative projects, gaining valuable experience and building a professional portfolio.

This degree will empower you to create impactful designs across various media and contexts. Graduate prepared for a range of career opportunities in the field of graphic communication design.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

138 units for Core courses, and
6 units for Electives

Complete 138 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
120 units for all Program core

	Course code	Units
Course name Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities	Course code EDUC1003	Units 6
Course name First Nations Peoples and Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching	Course code INDG4000	Units 6
Course name The Brain and Learning	Course code PSYC2007	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Thinking By Design	Course code GRAP1000	Units 6
Course name Drawing for Art and Design	Course code GRAP1001	Units 6
Course name Design Perspectives	Course code GRAP1002	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Studio 1	Course code GRAP1003	Units 6
Course name Digital Design Principles and Methods	Course code GRAP1004	Units 6
Course name Typography Studio 1	Course code GRAP1005	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Studio 2	Course code GRAP1006	Units 6
Course name Principles of UX Design	Course code GRAP2000	Units 6
Course name Critical Design Issues	Course code GRAP2001	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Studio 4	Course code GRAP2002	Units 12
Course name Typography Studio 2: Advanced Design for Reading	Course code GRAP2003	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Studio 3	Course code GRAP2006	Units 12
Course name Integrated Studio A	Course code GRAP3000	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Studio 5	Course code GRAP3001	Units 6
Course name Design for Digital Interaction	Course code GRAP3002	Units 6
Course name Critical Design Practice	Course code GRAP3003	Units 6
Course name Graphic Communication Design Professional Practice: Capstone	Course code GRAP3004	Units 12

Complete 6 units comprising:

6 units from Free electives

Career outcomes

With a degree in graphic communication design, you could step into the role of a graphic designer, creating visually stunning and impactful designs that capture attention. You might also become an art director, guiding creative teams to bring innovative projects to life. Perhaps you’ll explore content creation, producing engaging visuals for websites, social media and marketing campaigns.

There are also exciting opportunities in UX design, where you could enhance user experiences through intuitive and aesthetic interfaces.

As a graduate, you’ll be equipped to work in diverse sectors, from design consultancies, advertising agencies and tech companies to non-profits and corporate environments.

Your skills will open doors in branding, multimedia production and digital marketing. You’ll be able to impactfully make your mark in the dynamic world of visual storytelling. The possibilities are limitless when you embark on your creative career journey.

Industry trends

The demand for graphic designers, particularly for web and mobile applications, is expected to drive future job opportunities. Our degree ensures you are well prepared to meet the evolving demands of the design industry as technology continues to advance (Aussie Career Insights, 2024).

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: