MSF60122/ ON CAMPUS / VIRTUAL/ ONLINE
Advanced Diploma of Interior Design
Design complex, specialised environments and work confidently across multiple sectors including retail, workplace, hospitality aged care and wellness.
Build on your design foundations and apply them to complex, real-world briefs that demand dynamic and innovative solutions across a broader range of sectors. As you progress, you’ll develop professional research skills, manage budgets and project timelines, and produce advanced specifications and documentation, skills that are highly valued across the industry.
Present your design proposals using the latest, in-demand 2D and 3D modelling software, and graduate with a portfolio featuring a broad range of specialised projects, proof of the capability, versatility and confidence you need to pitch ideas and lead in the industry.
What you’ll learn
Specialise and tailor your portfolio
For your final project, follow your passion. Write your own brief, find your own site, and explore the area of interiors you’re most drawn to, mentored by an industry professional every step of the way. It’s your chance to create a standout portfolio that reflects your unique design style.
On Campus
Soak up the atmosphere, get to know our community, dive into our sample library, attend events and make lifelong friendships.
Intakes
January or July
NSW Public School Terms
Duration
21-month duration (fast track)
Study 3 days per week / 12 months
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday
Then study 2 days per week / 9 months
Thursday & Friday
27-month duration
Study 2 days per week / 18 months
Monday & Tuesday
Then study 2 days per week / 9 months
Thursday & Friday
Class times
Our classes run 9:30am – 4:30pm
AEST or AEDT
Fees
Domestic Students
Total Course Fee: AUD $33,990 (GST free)
International Students
Total Course Fee: AUD $44,990 (GST free)
Deposit: AUD $2490
Visa required
Additional costs
You will also need to purchase a Design Kit $660 (GST inc) prior to your course start date.
Allow $50 per term for incidental costs e.g. photocopying.
Instalment plans
You can pay in monthly instalments via Ezidebit.
Domestic Instalment Plan
International Instalment Plan
More Info
Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements for this course, just bring your passion for design.
To study with us live online you will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required by our team, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.
If our team have concerns, we will be in contact with you by telephone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the acknowledgement of a person’s competency, skills and knowledge which may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning.
Sydney Design School offers applicants the opportunity to apply for RPL and gain credit towards their course. There is a fee associated with an RPL application, please speak to our Course Advisor for more information.
Credit transfer
Sydney Design School offers a credit transfer to any applicant who provides suitable evidence that they have successfully completed a unit or module at any Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
Equipment and software
As part of your course enrolment, you’ll receive a free student subscription to AutoCAD and Revit through Autodesk. You will be able to access links to subscribe via our eCampus when you commence your study using your course confirmation letter.
If you are an Australian student, we will also provide a link to purchase a 12-month educational subscription to SketchUp and a free educational subscription to Twinmotion. If you are studying outside Australia, you can find your local software provider here.
You will need a student subscription to Adobe Photoshop and InDesign.
Laptop requirements:
Minimum Windows (PC) Specifications:
/ Intel i7 / Ryzen 7
/ 32 GB RAM
/ 1TB SSD
/ NVIDIA RTX 4060 or similar
Minimum Mac Specifications:
/ MacBook Pro (M3 Pro or higher)
/ 24- 36 GB RAM
/ 1TB SSD
Units of Study
VOC01: DESIGN FOUNDATIONS
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the interior decoration and design industries while building a strong foundation in essential skills such as colour schemes and freehand sketching.
VOC02: SPACE AND SCALE
Explore key principles of residential planning across a range of residential spaces including kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces. Create lighting layouts and detailed floor plans to bring your ideas to life.
VOC03: INTERIOR SCHEMES
Build confidence in selecting and sourcing furniture, textiles, furnishings, upholstery and window treatments to meet diverse client briefs. Learn to present cohesive interior schemes.
VOC04: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND DECORATION
Consolidate your design skills by undertaking a real-world residential project - from initial briefing and space planning to the development of a complete interior furnishings scheme.
VOC05: 2D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
Master 2D drawing software to produce a complete documentation package. Learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of building structures, systems, the NCC and standards within the context of residential projects.
VOC06: RESIDENTIAL DESIGN AND PLANNING
Design, plan and model residential spaces that respond to changing client needs, lifestyles and environments. Learn how to manipulate 3D space through exploring extensions, voids and stairs.
VOC07: 3D DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS
Build dynamic detailed 3D models of interior spaces using the latest industry software. Apply materials, textures, and lighting and create stunning photorealistic renders.
VOC08: CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSLATION
Master the art of concept development and creative exploration as you deep dive into the design process - from developing a unique concept to transforming ideas into pop-up spaces.
VOC09: COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTS
Discover how thoughtful design can transform the way people shop, work and collaborate. Create inspiring retail environments, innovative office spaces, and dynamic training facilities.
VOC10: INTERIOR JOINERY DETAILING AND DOCUMENTATION
Design and produce a detailed, industry-standard joinery documentation package. Refine your drafting skills and effectively communicate your design intent.
VOC11: HOSPITALITY ENVIRONMENTS
Ignite your creativity and push the boundaries of design as you craft bold, experience-driven hospitality spaces - from buzzing bars to immersive restaurants.
VOC12: CREATIVE INTELLIGENCE AND RESEARCH
Engage in a comprehensive investigation of architectural styles and the key factors influencing global design trends, with an emphasis on critical analysis of the cultural, social, economic, and technological forces that shape the world of design.
VOC13: PROJECT PROCUREMENT AND COORDINATION
Develop advanced skills in procurement and project coordination, empowering you to manage a commercial interior design project from concept to completion – balancing budgets, timelines and client expectations.
VOC14: REVIT AND COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
Unlock the power of Revit, the industry-leading building information modelling (BIM) software. Create intricate 3D digital models, generate precise documentation, and produce automated schedules for large-scale design projects.
VOC15: PEOPLE, CONNECTIONS AND DESTINATIONS
Explore cutting-edge trends and future possibilities in the world of travel. Challenge the status quo by delving into visionary design concepts while balancing the practical, operational and functional aspects for designed destinations.
VOC16: RETAIL ROLL OUT
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge retail roll out for a variety of shopping destinations. Learn the art of commercial retail lighting and produce industry-standard documentation.
VOC17: DESIGN SPECIALISATION
Instigate, develop and manage a unique interior design project for a large-scale commercial project. Guided by an industry mentor, you will refine your ideas and build a compelling portfolio that showcases your creativity, technical expertise, and individual career aspirations.
Units of competency
Click on the link below for a full list of competencies.
Units of CompetencyAccredited and recognised
We are a Registered Training Organisation, RTO 91446, and our career courses carry nationally recognised accreditation from the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). The Design Institute of Australia, the peak body for design professionals in Australia, recognises our qualifications too.
No ATAR?
Direct entry into a degree
Gain the practical, work ready skills of the Advanced Diploma, then continue straight into a BA (Hons) Interior Architecture at UNSW, our formal degree partner with 18 months credit.
This direct entry pathway means you can start working in the industry upon completion of the Advanced Diploma while you finish your degree, graduating with both real-world experience and a university qualification.
Student showcase
We’re extremely proud of our students’ work and what they achieve while they are with us. We aim to give them a broad range of skills, enabling them to apply what they’ve learned to any project and deliver it to an industry standard. blends creativity with real-world skills.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between this course and the Diploma?
You learn in a small, tight-knit group, challenged by large scale commercial projects with specialist mentoring, detailed documentation, procurement and industry standard software.
For your final assessment you’ll choose your own client project and site, enabling you to tailor your portfolio to your areas of interest.
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Can I go onto the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design?
Yes. If you are ready to take your study further you can credit the units of study in this course towards the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design.