Diploma of Graphic Design

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Duration

2 years part-time

Location

Online

Next start term

Term 1, 2027

Study mode

On Campus, Online

Course code

CO01

This is a new course, with the first intake expected in Term 1, 2027. Register your interest to stay informed.

Overview Structure & Availability Requirements Fees & Scholarships How to Apply

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Graphic designer sitting at computer with design charts in the background

Overview

The rapid evolution of digital technologies continues to transform how we work, communicate, and engage with media. As a result, the demand for creative professionals who can produce and apply innovative media solutions is stronger than ever. Explore your creative side with a Diploma of Graphic Design from CQU.

The Diploma of Graphic Design will equip you with the technical and creative skills required for a career in the graphic design industry.

Your course begins with foundation units in photography, visual design, communication and professional practice. As you progress through your studies, you will explore more specialised areas, including print design, visual communication, social media management, typography and colour.

You will learn how to create digital media works using industry-standard software tools and techniques, whilst also learning to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and work independently and collaboratively on practical projects.

On successful completion of this course, you may choose to further your skills with the Bachelor of Creative Media, receiving full credits for the units you have already completed.

Study Experience

Discover more about your Diploma of Graphic Design and how you'll benefit from flexible study options and seamless pathways to advance your skills and knowledge. Click 'Explore Study Experience' for more information.

Online or On Campus
Part-time Study
Real-world Learning Facilities
Seamless Pathways

Career Opportunities

Upon successful completion of this course, you will have the technical and creative skills to pursue a career in a wide range of fields, including:

graphic design,
publishing,
photography,
social media management,
corporate communications,
learning design,
advertising,
marketing.

Structure & Availability

The course structure and available locations can change depending on when you want to study. You can choose the intake that best suits you in the drop-down menu below.

Choose when you want to study

Available Locations

Your Course

You must complete eight units (48 credits):

1
The core structure (8 units)

Unit Details

The units you'll study are listed below. Click on a unit to learn more.

Core Units

You will study the eight units listed below.

Additional Information

Credit Transfer

If you have completed prior study relevant to units within this course, you may be eligible for credit for your past studies.

Learn more about credit and recognition of prior learning.

Requirements

To Be Eligible

For your application to be considered, you must meet the following entry requirements.

Alternative Entry Pathways

CQU offers a range of alternative entry pathways to help you get started. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, there are options available, depending on your background and previous experience.

View Alternative Entry Pathways

Fees & Scholarships

Indicative First-Year Fee

Not Yet Available

Please check back later or visit our fees webpage for more information.

This is a new course with the first intake expected in 2027.

Fee estimates for the first year of study are expected to be available in September 2026.

Commonwealth Support and Government Assistance

Commonwealth Supported Places

This course has Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) available, and as a domestic student, you'll be offered a CSP, provided you meet CSP eligibility requirements. CSPs are subsidised by the Australian Government, meaning you are only required to pay the student contribution rather than full tuition fees.

HECS-HELP Loan

You may be eligible for a HECS-HELP government loan if you are offered a CSP. HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme that assists you in paying your student contributions. Provided you meet the HECS-HELP eligibility criteria, you may use HECS-HELP to defer part or all of your student contribution fees.

Learn more about paying for university.

Other Study Costs

Part of your course costs will include Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF). SSAF is charged in addition to your student contribution or tuition fees and is used to help enhance your study experience. There may also be other costs as part of your studies, such as textbooks, technology expenses, travel expenses, professional certifications, uniforms, or vaccinations.

Explore other study costs.

Scholarships

We believe a quality education can be for everyone – regardless of background, location, or life circumstances. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and bursaries that can give you a helping hand with a range of expenses and enhance your employability.

Explore scholarships.

How to Apply

Check what you need to do to apply to study this course.

Choose when you want to study

Choose where you live

Your Application Options

Follow These Steps

1
Check you meet the course requirements
2
Get a Unique Student Identifier

Submit your QTAC application

Extra Admission Information

Prior to applying, take a look at important application dates and learn about our admission considerations, such as information for domestic students with overseas qualifications, indigenous support, and elite athlete, coach and performer support. You should also check out the adjustment schemes that might be available to you and how to access them. You can also explore our offer information to learn more about what happens after you've submitted an application and how to respond to an offer to study with CQU.

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Part-time Study

Real-world Learning Facilities

Seamless Pathways

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Diploma of Graphic Design

Overview