Applied Design and Art

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Applied Design and Art at Curtin University offers students a comprehensive and practical education in the fields of design, visual communication, and creative arts. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and creative confidence needed to excel in the dynamic industry of design and art. Throughout their studies, students will engage in a diverse range of coursework covering areas such as graphic design, digital media, illustration, photography, and spatial design, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to creative practice. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands and contribute meaningful work in various professional settings.

Students will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, industry-relevant projects, and opportunities for internships and collaborations with real-world clients. The program encourages experimentation, critical thinking, and innovation, enabling students to develop unique artistic voices and a strong professional portfolio. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and industry experts who mentor students through their creative journey, providing valuable insights and feedback. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to pursue careers in freelance design, branding, advertising, digital media, and other creative industries, or to continue their studies in postgraduate programs. The Bachelor of Applied Design and Art at Curtin University is committed to nurturing creative talent and supporting students in transforming ideas into impactful visual solutions.

Graduates are Recognized by professional Institutions such as the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) and Design Institute of Australia. Graduates will also be eligible for membership at the Australian Graphic Design Association (AGDA), Perth Art Directors Club (PADC), '' The Design Management Institute, and Design Institute of Australia, Perth Institute of Contemporary Art (PICA), Arts Source: The Artists Foundation of Western Australia, FORM (originally CraftWest).

The Bachelor of Applied Design and Art at Curtin University requires students to complete a total of 360 credit points across their coursework. The program is designed to develop students' practical skills, creative thinking, and theoretical knowledge in various disciplines of design and art. Students must undertake core units that cover fundamental concepts of visual communication, design principles, and material techniques. In addition, there are elective units allowing learners to tailor their study towards specific areas such as graphic design, illustration, digital media, or spatial design. The program emphasizes hands-on projects, ensuring students gain real-world experience and build a professional portfolio. Collaborative projects and industry placements are integrated into the course to enhance employability and industry readiness. To graduate, students must also complete a capstone project that synthesizes their learning and demonstrates their competency in applying design principles to practical scenarios. The program encourages innovation, sustainability, and critical thinking, equipping graduates to excel in diverse creative industries. Entry requirements typically include successful completion of secondary education qualification, and prerequisites may include a portfolio submission demonstrating artistic and design capabilities. The curriculum also emphasizes developing digital literacy and understanding of contemporary issues in design and art. Throughout the course, students are supported by experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to industry networks. The program aims to prepare students for a range of careers, including graphic design, illustration, digital media, advertising, and other creative sectors. Overall, the Bachelor of Applied Design and Art offers a comprehensive education that combines practical skills, conceptual understanding, and industry engagement to produce versatile and innovative graduates ready for the dynamic creative economy.

The Bachelor of Applied Design and Art program at Curtin University offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for diverse careers in the creative industries. In terms of financing studies, students have several options to consider. Domestic students may be eligible for government financial aid, including FEE-HELP, which assists eligible students in paying for their tuition fees through a voluntary, income-contingent loan scheme. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront and are not eligible for Australian government loans; therefore, they often seek private financial arrangements or scholarships. Curtin University provides a range of scholarships and grants for both domestic and international students, aimed at supporting those demonstrating academic excellence or financial need, which can significantly reduce the cost of study.

Students may also explore external scholarship opportunities from industry bodies or cultural foundations that support emerging designers and artists. Additionally, students often finance their studies through part-time work, which is facilitated by the university’s location in Perth, a city with a dynamic arts and design scene offering various employment opportunities. The university’s student support services provide financial counseling and planning advice to assist students in managing their study-related expenses effectively. Some students might also consider education loans from private financial institutions, though this involves repayment obligations and interest payments post-graduation.

Paying for a design and art program also entails costs beyond tuition, including materials, software, and studio fees, which students should budget for separately. Curtin’s flexible study options, including part-time study, can help students on a tight budget manage their financial commitments more effectively. Overall, financing studies in Applied Design and Art involves a combination of government support, scholarships, personal savings, part-time employment, and financial planning to ensure that students can focus on their creative development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Applied Design and Art at Curtin University offers students an opportunity to develop their skills and understanding in various aspects of design and art practice. The program emphasizes a comprehensive education in visual communication, conceptual development, and practical skills essential for a successful career in the creative industries. Students are engaged in a diverse curriculum that covers areas such as graphic design, illustration, visual storytelling, and contemporary art practices. The course is designed to foster innovative thinking, technical proficiency, and professional readiness, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to the dynamic and evolving fields of art and design. Throughout their studies, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, practical projects, and industry collaborations that enhance real-world experience. The program encourages student exploration and experimentation, allowing for the development of a unique artistic voice and style. Graduates of this degree are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors, including media, advertising, digital design, fine arts, and design consultancy. The program also provides pathways to further postgraduate study, research opportunities, or entrepreneurial ventures in the creative industry. Curtin University’s Applied Design and Art program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students to be innovative contributors to the fields of design and visual arts, with a focus on creating socially, culturally, and environmentally responsible artworks and designs.