The Graduate Certificate in Design and Art provides a sound introduction to graduate studies and allows you to pursue independent projects under the guidance of experienced staff. This course is flexible and can be tailored to suit individual interests and career objectives. It allows you to develop creative and professional skills through studies in contemporary design and art practice, and covers a wide variety of specialisations.

You can choose to focus your studies on one of the following specialisations:

• Animation and game design
• Creative advertising or graphic design
• Design and art theory
• Digital design
• Fashion
• Fine art
• Photography or illustration design.

This course is suited to applicants with knowledge and expertise from other disciplines as well as those with formal qualifications in art or design. Through a combination of coursework, project-based units, and professional placements you'll learn the skills and knowledge required to produce contemporary design and art solutions.

Upon successful completion of the graduate certificate, you may then subsequently enrol in the master degree.

Why study

• You will be given the opportunity to refine your specialisation by collaborating with students in disciplines such as art, film & TV, multimedia, Internet studies and interior architecture.
• The quality of practical industry skills you will gain are recognised by professional associations such as the Design Institute of Australia.
• You will be encouraged to present your work through participation in industry-based competitions and events.

Professional recognition

Graduates are recognised by professional associations such as the National Association for the Arts (NAVA) and the Design Institute of Australia. Graduates are also eligible for membership in the following organisations:

• Australian Graphic Design Association 
• Design Management Institute
• Perth Institute of Australia (PICA)
• Arts Source: The Artists Foundation of Western Australia
• FORM.

Graduates of design and art generally find employment within all avenues of design, including design studios, advertising agencies, public relations and marketing organisations. Your research project can aid further in niche specialisation and self employment.

Career opportunities

• Art director
• Art writer
• Creative strategist
• Curator
• Fashion professional
• Graphic designer
• Illustrator
• Multimedia designer
• Photographer.

Potential employers

• Advertising agencies
• Design studios
• Fashion studios
• Government
• Marketing organisations
• Media organisations
• Not-for-profit organisations.