COURSE CURRICULUM

The Graphic & Digital Design course at Collarts is structured over three years, with each year divided into three trimesters focusing on four core areas: Contexts, Principles, Practice, and Creative Foundations. In the first year, students explore foundational knowledge with units like Design Thinking and Innovation, Persuasion and Representation, Design Principles, Elements and Colour, Copywriting Practice, Typography Fundamentals, and Motion Design. The year also includes Creative and Industry Foundations, preparing students for professional expectations. In the second year, the focus deepens with subjects such as Brand Experience, Contemporary Art, Design and Cultural History, Publication Design, and Data Analysis, Visualisation and Information Design. Students also gain practical skills through User Experience and Interface Design, Design Systems, Human-Centred Design, and Experience Design. In the final year, students engage with advanced topics like Design Law, Ethics and Regulation, and Creative Entrepreneurship. They undertake a two-part Capstone Project, where they research, develop, and deliver a major design outcome. This final year also includes Advanced Typography and the opportunity to apply learning in a real-world setting through an elective and an industry placement. Throughout the course, students gain a balance of conceptual knowledge, hands-on practice, and industry exposure, all designed to build a professional portfolio and prepare them for a successful design career.