CUA40720 Certificate IV in Design (Graphic Design)
Graphic Designers communicate through images and words
Gain a broad understanding of graphic design and a variety of skills to create 2D and 3D designs, including using industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign in an industry replicated environment.
Overview
Campus Perth
When Semester 1, 2025
How On campus
The umbrella of Graphic Design covers many diverse career possibilities
Our Certificate IV in Design (Graphic Design) is a foundation course that provides you with a broad understanding and experience of the graphic design discipline, including concept development, drawing and iPad sketching, an introduction to web design, some laser cutting, fun with Letterpress, typography fundamentals and 3D design basics using Adobe Stager to name but a few.
Design is a process that combines elements into a workable solution whether it be a logo, or an app interface and our concept development and ideation units have these foundation skills covered. Graphic Designers communicate through images and words and some units concentrate on an introduction to web and interface design, while other units cover  conceptual and creative thinking skills.
This qualification is weighted approximately 60/40 digital versus traditional, manual skills and we concentrate on solid software skills to begin with using industry-standard Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign in an environment that replicates a real industry setup. You will learn to use digital drawing tools, manipulate and capture images, as well as page layout skills creating eZines. Our lecturers are hands-on and always present to help as the course is delivered using learning activities such as tutorials, design briefs and class presentations.
The industry demands a mastery of typography, and you will begin this journey by having fun combining digital techniques with traditional Letterpress to learn the basics. Our industry also demands drawing and sketching skills to convey concepts to both clients and fellow designers and our drawing units, both traditional and digital, lay the foundation for further development in digital illustration required in the Diploma and beyond.
Successful completion of this course will equip you with the skills needed to enter the Diploma of Graphic Design with confidence.
This course is only offered in semester 1 each year.
Please note This course is extremely popular. Due to the large number of applications we receive, places fill up quickly and there is a chance you may not be accepted into the course in your preferred semester. We encourage you to apply for the next available semester.
Important information
| School Leaver | Non-School Leaver | AQF |
|---|---|---|
| OLNA or NAPLAN 9 Band 8 | C Grades in Year 10 English and Maths or equivalent | Certificate I or Certificate II |
You'll be able to access your personal timetable (find out how on our Timetables page), once you have paid your fees.
Please note this list should be used as a guide only as job titles and qualification requirements may vary between organisations.
Visit one of our four Jobs and Skills Centres located at NMT's Balga, Joondalup, Midland and Perth campuses for free career planning advice and job search support.
Study outside of class hours, including private study, assignment preparation, and research will be required to successfully complete your course.
Bring your own device (BYOD) is encouraged but not essential. If you don’t have access to a computer and WiFi at home, we recommend using our library computers during library hours.
As a student you will also have additional costs associated with your study, for example text books and stationery, printing and other materials required for your assignments.
Select your preferred campus and apply
Semester 1, 2025
Details
Units and fees
Core
| National ID Unit title | General fee | Concession | Resource fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSBCRT411 Apply critical thinking to work practices | $268.40 | $80.85 | $5.00 |
| CUAACD411 Integrate colour theory and design processes | $97.60 | $29.40 | $15.00 |
| CUADES305 Source and apply information on the history and theory of design | $317.20 | $95.55 | $10.00 |
| CUADES411 Generate design solutions | $292.80 | $88.20 | $15.00 |
| CUADES412 Interpret and respond to a design brief | $97.60 | $29.40 | $10.00 |
| CUAPPR411 Realise a creative project | $268.40 | $80.85 | $35.00 |
| CUAWHS312 Apply work health and safety practices | $97.60 | $29.40 | $15.00 |
Elective
| National ID Unit title | General fee | Concession | Resource fee |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
$292.80 | $88.20 | $15.00 |
|
|
$195.20 | $58.80 | $10.00 |
|
|
$292.80 | $88.20 | $35.00 |
|
|
$292.80 | $88.20 | $45.00 |
|
|
$244.00 | $73.50 | $55.00 |
|
|
$292.80 | $88.20 | $50.00 |
|
|
$292.80 | $88.20 | $20.00 |
|
|
$370.88 | $111.72 | $46.00 |
*Fee disclaimers
The fees quoted are estimates only and are for the entire course for students enrolling on a full-time basis. Please view the full list of Fee disclaimers.
Please note fees listed include all units required to gain this qualification. If you're a continuing student and have successfully completed a lower-level qualification that is a prerequisite for this course, you'll only pay for the units that you need to enrol in, to complete this course.
Enquiries regarding fees can be made by calling us.
Get help
This form is only for course enquiries. If you would like to apply, please refer to the SELECT YOUR PREFERRED CAMPUS AND APPLY section above.