MSF50222/ ON CAMPUS / VIRTUAL / ONLINE

Diploma of
Interior Design

Shape inspiring spaces where people live, work and connect. This course is designed for curious creatives who want to think big and make real change.

Become an Interior Designer

If you’re dreaming of a job where no two days are the same, interior design could be your perfect fit. Begin by exploring the foundations of design, from colour to space planning, and put your skills into practice by designing residential spaces for real clients. Then step into the exciting world of commercial design while developing the skills to confidently respond to diverse client briefs and real-world project demands.

Learn industry-standard 2D design software to develop detailed space planning and documentation for commercial spaces and joinery pieces. Bring your creative concepts to life using the latest 3D visualisation software, rendering spaces with the kind of realism clients expect before a project ever breaks ground.

What you’ll learn

Residential and commercial focus

Master both residential and commercial design including retail, workplace, hospitality and joinery. Step into the workforce ready for any brief, any client, any project and graduate with the range employers are actively hiring for.

Technical and documentation skills

Create industry-standard client documentation and presentations, from concept boards to technical specifications, that are sought after by design studios, polished, persuasive, and built to help you stand out from day one.

Be industry ready with a polished portfolio

Graduate with an industry-standard portfolio of work that demonstrates your creativity, technical skill, and readiness to join a design studio or start your own design business Real tangible proof of what you can do.

Learning options

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

12-month duration (fast track)
Study 3 days / Wednesday, Thursday & Friday

18-month duration
Study 2 days / Monday & Tuesday

Class times

Our classes run 9:30am – 4:30pm
AEST or AEDT

Fees

Domestic Students
Total Course Fee: AUD $23,490 (GST free)

International Students
Total Course Fee: AUD $31,990 (GST free)
Deposit: $2490 (GST free)
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

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Accredited 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.

Nationally Recognised Training logo
Design Institute of Australia logo

No ATAR?

Pathway to a degree

Gain the practical, work ready skills of the Diploma, then continue straight into a BA (Hons) Interior Architecture at UNSW, our formal degree partner with 12 months credit.

This direct entry pathway means you can start working in the industry upon completion of the Diploma while you finish your degree, graduating with both real-world experience and a university qualification.

Student showcase

Meet an Alumni

Josie Simpson’s creativity started young, and after a business career grounded in problem solving, a home renovation inspired her career change. At Sydney Design School, that spark met real clients and real practice. Today, she leads Altus Design Studio, known for colour confidence, art curation, and playful but elevated interiors.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a Diploma of Interior Design take?

On campus classes start in January and July and there are two study option. 2 days per week for 18 months or you can fast track your Diploma 3 days per week over 12 months.

Virtual studio starts in April or October 2 days per week and takes 18 months. It is ideal for students in Perth, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Manila, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul best. Check your own time zone using our online time zone converter.

Self-Paced Online gives you need today flexibility to work at your own pace. If you study around 10 hours per week it will take you 2-3 years.

What are the career prospects at the end of the Diploma of Interior Design?

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Interior Designers work across a wide range of settings, from architecture and interior design firms to commercial fit-out companies, property developers and construction firms. With a portfolio spanning residential and commercial projects, our graduates go on to join existing businesses, freelance, or start their own practice.

Diploma of Interior Design vs a degree

A Diploma of Interior Design usually takes one to two years, focuses on practical, industry-ready skills, and gets you working faster while a degree typically takes three to four years and goes deeper into design theory, history and areas such as sustainable design.

Can I switch between delivery modes?

Yes. You can switch between on campus, virtual studio and self-paced online once you have completed a unit. Keep in mind that on campus and virtual studio run to scheduled class times, so you will need to join classes for that unit rather than studying entirely at your own pace.

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Are there any holidays during the course?

On campus and virtual courses are delivered as per NSW term times so you will be on holiday when NSW schools are on holiday.

Can I apply for a VET Student Loan?

VET Student Loans are available for eligible students studying the Diploma or Advanced Diploma on campus or via virtual studio, not for self-paced online, which is paid unit by unit instead.

What equipment do I need to get started studying online?

For virtual studio and self-paced online you will need a reliable computer, internet connection and basic digital skills like email and saving PDFs. Virtual studio also requires a webcam and microphone for live Zoom classes. If you are studying the Diploma in either online mode, you will need a computer capable of running design software such as AutoCAD and SketchUp.

What is it like to study in a Virtual Studio or Self-Paced Online?

It’s a fully interactive, live learning experience, with real-time design demonstrations from multiple camera views, collaborative group discussions and direct feedback from your Educator. You’ll build close connections with classmates and enjoy the creative buzz of a studio from home.

Get to know us at our next Info Session Register Now