Bachelor of Design

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Study a Bachelor of Design

Shape how we experience the world with a Bachelor of Design from UC. Whether you're passionate about problem-solving, innovation, or creativity, our design degree equips you to create solutions for real-world challenges.

Specialise in your passion

Throughout your degree, you'll have the flexibility to study a broad range of design units, or specialise in Interaction Design, Game Development, Visual Communication Design or Industrial Design.

Whatever your focus, the Bachelor of Design ensures you develop the skills and knowledge needed for the evolving creative industries. Plus, with flexible study options available, you can study in a way that suits you and your lifestyle.

Future-focused and hands-on

You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry-leading tools, ensuring you’re equipped with the latest design technologies. Through our Work Integrated Learning program, you’ll collaborate with industry professionals, working on real-world projects that build your experience and confidence. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a strong portfolio and valuable industry connections to help launch your career.

Whether you’re looking to break into the industry or elevate your design expertise, UC’s Bachelor of Design will equip you with the skills, experience and industry connections to launch an exciting career in design.

Study level

Undergraduate

Delivery mode

Online*
On campus
Blended

ATAR

60

Study duration

3 years, full-time

Intake dates

Semester 1
Semester 2

Course unit cost

Save on your course fees with CSP supported places.

*See 'Study your way' section for online courses.

Want to know more?

Schedule a call with our friendly team to learn more about the Bachelor of Design.

Course highlights

Learn the skills to craft visually appealing graphics that communicate key messages.

Gain an in-depth understanding of design thinking to problem-solve real-world challenges.

Explore user-centric design principles to create engaging experiences across a range of mediums.

Engage with emerging technologies and leading design programs.

Expand your network and engage with a variety of industry leaders via UC’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL).

Design course details

Career outcomes

UC’s Bachelor of Design graduates may find themselves in any of the following positions:

Designer
Graphic Designer
Interaction Designer
UX (User Experience) Designer
UI (User Interface) Designer
Digital Designer
Usability Researcher
Information Architect
Content Strategist
Web Designer/Developer
Web/mobile Designer
Game Developer
Game Programmer

Entry requirements

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

Year 12 ATAR
other Australian Qualification
work experience
overseas qualification.

ALTERNATIVE ADMISSIONS PATHWAYS

Portfolio Entry: UC’s Portfolio Entry pathway allows applicants to apply for Faculty of Arts and Design undergraduate degrees by showcasing their creative skills and potential. It is designed for Year 12 students seeking early entry, mature-age applicants without formal qualifications and those with vocational or partial tertiary studies. This pathway assesses applicants based on a submitted portfolio demonstrating creativity, critical thinking and enthusiasm for their chosen field. More information is available on Portfolio Entry page.

Admission programs: UC also offers various entry initiatives giving you the opportunity to gain entry to the University via alternate pathway programs and admissions schemes. More information is available on our Alternative Entry page.

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)

Study your course with reduced fees.

A course with Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) means the Australian Government has subsidised a portion of your degree, reducing the total balance you are required to pay (known as the student contribution amount).

The CSP amount is determined by the course you are undertaking and the industry you'll be working in after graduation.

Learn more about Commonwealth Supported Places

HECS help

Some students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may be eligible to apply to defer payment of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government's FEE-HELP and HECS-HELP schemes.

Visit our fees page for useful information about eligibility and how to apply and pay. You can apply for FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP once you have enrolled in a course.

Visit HECS-HELP

Specialisations

Study your way

You can study a Bachelor of Design at UC in one of three ways:

Online

All course units delivered fully online.

Bachelor of Design (Interaction Design)

Blended

Blend of online and in-person units.

In person

All course units delivered in person.

Design FAQs

What study mode should I choose

UC provides flexible study options to give students the ultimate study, work and life balance. Select Bachelor of Design specialisations have three study modes to choose from:

Online: Study 100% online, with no in-person requirements.
Blended Online: lectures with some in-person requirements like presentations or group work. Check your course/unit page for details.
On Campus: All in-person study via our UC Bruce Campus.

What is UC's Portfolio Entry?

The University of Canberra's Portfolio Entry provides a creative pathway into the Bachelor of Design degrees without relying on your ATAR. Showcase your innovative design projects, problem-solving skills and digital work by submitting a portfolio that highlights your talent. This alternative entry route is perfect for students passionate about user experience, interface design, and interactive systems. Start your journey towards a design career by demonstrating your unique abilities and applying through portfolio entry.

Can I accelerate my degree to complete in a shorter time-frame?

A credit transfer arrangement may be available for the Bachelor of Design depending on the institution, qualification or completed units.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may also be awarded on a case-by-case basis.

Want to find out more? Book a personalised consultation to explore your options with our friendly team.

How to apply and can I get help with the application process?

At UC, we’re here to help you succeed! Once you’re ready to apply to UC, our process depends on your student type and course. You can find all the requirements, criteria, and processes through the UC application portal.

If you have further questions or would like assistance with your application, we encourage you to book a consult to receive personalised guidance and support.

What resources and support will I have access to?

At the University of Canberra, students studying online, on campus, or through a blended mode have access to a wide range of resources. These include virtual/in-person library access, academic and IT support, financial assistance and career services through Careers UC. As an Adobe Creative Campus, all students receive full access to Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe Express, helping you build essential creative and digital skills for the future, no matter your mode of study. You can even earn certified badges to showcase your expertise to employers.

Upcoming intakes

Semester 2, 2025: 28 July 2025

Semester 1, 2026: 16 February 2026

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