Start date
February
July

Duration
1 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
DGSP

Fees
AUD$ 38,300 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.5]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
082773J

Degree overview

  • Gain advanced design and research skills.
  • Benefit from our networks and relationships with the design industry – locally, nationally, and internationally.
  • Work on real-life projects, gaining valuable practical experience.
  • Study at the No.1 University in South Australia for graduate skills in Architecture1
  • Learn from teachers who are established designers, offering insight into what it takes to create sustainable, coherent, visually appealing interiors.
  • UniSA is home to Australia’s only architecture museum filled with over 200,000 items, including records, drawings and photographs.
  • Use this qualification as a pathway to further learning, including Masters.  
  • Be taught by world-class leaders in research – UniSA's research in design is ranked world class2.
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities3, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Architecture and Built Environment – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
2Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
3UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Snapshot

With a focus on design research, theory and practice, this graduate diploma will prepare you for a career as an interior architect or interior designer. 

You will study the development and application of research processes. Through our industry connections, you will be given the opportunity to work on creative projects, developing skills in writing project proposals and presenting information.

A focus on practical learning also means you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to design stimulating, sustainable and visually appealing interiors, as well as the confidence to embark on real-world projects.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

You will graduate with the confidence and practical capabilities needed to succeed in this competitive field. Through your studies, you will develop an advanced understanding of the theoretical aspects of design, industry trends and design processes. You will also develop cognitive skills needed to review and analyse research. The graduate diploma includes design research studio classes, research methods, sustainable design, business practice, and electives.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Research Studio 1 GRAP 5005 9
Research Methods (Creative) CREA 4004 4.5
Nature, Culture and Sustainability ARCH 6005 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Research Studio 2 GRAP 5006 9
Business Practice for Artists and Designers VSAR 5006 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1,2

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • projects
  • presentations
  • essays and assignments

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Graduate Diploma in Design (Interior Architecture)

Why this Degree

This dynamic graduate diploma offers a unique blend of practical experience with solid theoretical knowledge, ensuring you graduate with the tools needed for a successful career in this competitive field.  

UniSA boasts strong relationships with industry experts locally, nationally, and internationally, so by studying this qualification, you will be well on your way to building long-lasting industry relationships and networks. 

Our teaching staff have extensive professional design experience, so the curriculum is industry-relevant and mostly practical in nature. You will also work alongside world-class researchers in design1 so you can be assured that by studying this graduate diploma at UniSA you will take away industry-relevant skills and knowledge.

We are also one of only two universities in Australia to combine art, architecture, design and planning principles, making us an excellent choice for students with a specific interest in this field.

1Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Real-world connections

There is a strong practical component to this graduate diploma. You will benefit from our industry links and relationships with the design profession locally, nationally, and internationally.

Our teaching staff are also highly trained industry professionals who bring with them years of experience. They have strong industry links and many hold professional positions with national and international organisations. UniSA offers an extensive range of career-related events and workshops online, on campus and around Adelaide to develop your skills and increase your knowledge.

Hear what it is like to study Design (Interior Architecture) at UniSA

Hear about Neha Natarajan's experience studying Design (Interior Architecture) at UniSA.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

Graduates typically find work in architectural practices, interior design practices, building companies, and other organisations supplying the design and building industry, such as corporate furniture suppliers. Careers to consider:

  • interior designer: design, implement and refurbish interior spaces
  • design consultant: help clients to best utilise living spaces by advising on how to arrange lighting, furniture, and other fixtures
  • event designer: oversee and direct the overall look and visual appeal of an event 
  • furniture designer: develop design concepts, experiment with different materials, liaise with clients and build sample models for either mass produced furniture prototypes or one-off exclusive pieces 

Industry facts

column-chart-growth

Employment for interior designers in Australia is projected to increase by 19.9 per cent by November 20201.

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

line-graph-growth

The architectural services sector in Australia is projected to grow and reach $7.1 billion in annual revenue by 20201.

1IBISWorld’s Architectural Services market research report 2017

chart-people

Employment for architects, designers, planners and surveyors in Australia is projected to increase by 17,500 (14.7 per cent) by November 20201.

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

You will have access to: 

  • dedicated design studios and workshops
  • Australia’s only Architecture Museum 
  • the University library’s collection of art, craft, and design resource materials, which is the largest in the state
Your study spaces

Your program director

I’m passionate about increasing awareness of Indigenous knowledges and providing expansive opportunities for students to engage in the educational process.

Mr Peter Walker

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Mr Peter Walker
Portrait image for Mr Peter Walker

Mr Peter Walker

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

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