Why Graduate Diploma in Design?
Picture this: a complex creative challenge to solve. Unleash your imagination! What creative thinking can you apply to come up with an innovative and sustainable solution that meets the brief?
Few fields offer the level of self-expression that fine arts do. Combining this with design allows you to explore your unique perspective while solving real-world problems or creating immersive experiences that connect with people on a personal level.
In our Graduate Diploma in Design specialising in Fine Arts, build the expertise to create art that matters – to explore ideas that blend artistry and practicality – and shape how people see and interact with the world.
Overview
Fine art has the power to evoke emotions, spark conversations and influence cultural narratives. In our Graduate Diploma in Design specialising in Fine Arts you’ll focus on creative thinking.
Develop skills in creating art, effective communication, managing projects and conducting research. Work collaboratively on high impact projects that enhance your portfolio – preparing you for work in professional team settings. Learn in studio-based environments as you develop practical skills and advance your visual art and creative knowledge. You’ll also complete an internship to cement what you’ve learned in an industry environment.
Graduate after one year of full-time study or the part-time equivalent – or continue your learning with our Master of Design.
Key features
Blend creativity, critical thinking and specialised technical skills. - Work in purpose-built studios to transform your skills as an artist.
- Get real-time feedback on your projects.
- Learn from teachers who are practising professionals with strong links to industry.
- Upskill to advance your career or change roles, without the commitment of a master's degree.
- Gain business management skills for a successful career as a professional artist.
What you'll learn
Develop your art and design skills while learning to create innovative solutions to contemporary issues and effectively coordinate and manage projects.
Your topics may include:
- Art and design masters foundation studio
- Nature, culture and sustainability
- Art and design advanced theory
- Art and design business practices
- Art and design interdisciplinary studio
- Art and design research methods.
Grow your ability to research and use creative ideas to develop projects that tackle contemporary issues. Explore how art and design connect to sustainability in social, cultural, economic, and technological contexts. Advocate for art and design as powerful tools for sustainability. Use historical, cultural, and theoretical knowledge to inform art and design decisions. Understand aboriginal knowledges, skills and values through the lens of Country. Nurture your understanding of ecological issues in art and design to create culturally sensitive, inclusive, and sustainable solutions.
Build a strong skillset to construct a project brief that defines the client’s and users’ needs. Work collaboratively in a team to develop art and design solutions that meet the brief and reflect the best of contemporary creative practice with real-time feedback on your projects.
Explore and develop your creative ideas in our 24/7 studio. It's been carefully designed to support learning, encourage innovation, and help you grow your skills as an artist. The studio is equipped with audio-visual and IT tools to aid presentations, teamwork, and collaboration.
You’ll also learn the essential skills to succeed in your career: strong communication, project management, financial, and legal skills.
Specialisations
The Graduate Diploma in Design is also available with specialisations in the following:
- Fine Arts
- Graphic Communication Design
- Illustration and Animation
- Interior Architecture.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 36 units for all Core courses, and
- Either:
- 12 units for all Discipline courses, or
- 12 units for all Specialisations
Complete 36 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Art and Design Masters Foundation Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5006
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Interdisciplinary Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5013
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Business Practices
|
Course code
ARCH5016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH6000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Art and Design Interdisciplinary Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5013
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Nature, Culture and Sustainability
|
Course code
ARCH5012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Advanced Theory
|
Course code
ARCH5018
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Art and Design Masters Foundation Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5006
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Business Practices
|
Course code
ARCH5016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH6000
|
Units
6
|
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Nature, Culture and Sustainability
|
Course code
ARCH5012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Advanced Theory
|
Course code
ARCH5018
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Art and Design Interdisciplinary Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5013
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Nature, Culture and Sustainability
|
Course code
ARCH5012
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Advanced Theory
|
Course code
ARCH5018
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Art and Design Masters Foundation Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5006
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Business Practices
|
Course code
ARCH5016
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Art and Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH6000
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Blend creativity, critical thinking, and specialised technical skills as and art professional. Whether you are already in the field and want to advance your career, or you’re a recent graduate wanting to specialise in art or broaden your expertise, our Graduate Diploma in Design specialising in Fine Arts can unlock a range of possibilities.
Opportunities exist in private business, creative agencies, government, and inhouse teams within organisations. You could freelance as an artist working on custom art projects, installations, commissioned works, or digital experiences. You might create engaging displays for museums, art galleries, or events as an exhibition designer. Perhaps you’ll work as an art director leading creative teams in advertising, publishing, or multimedia projects.
Key industries hiring fine arts focused designers include:
- Art galleries and museums
- Media and entertainment
- Tech companies and startups
- Design agencies
- Educational institutions
- Nonprofits and community organisations.
Industry trends
In Australia, there is growing demand for design and fine arts graduates in creative industries. Arts programming, administration, and marketing roles are among the most advertised and sought after in the sector. Many professionals work as embedded creatives in industries like technology or business (ArtsHub, 2024). The creative economy’s share of total employment is increasing, growing to 5.9% of the total workforce, with total creative employment growing by an annual average rate of 3.8% (Creative Australia, 2023).
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
