COURSE CURRICULUM

The Honours Design Research pathway in Industrial Design is a 320-credit-point program designed to develop advanced skills in design research, innovation, and applied practice. The course includes 230 credit points of core subjects that build a strong foundation in human-centred design, UX design, ergonomics, sustainability, circular economy principles, and advanced design communication. Students also study design graphics, drawing for design thinking, smart manufacturing, product form, biomechanics in product innovation, and interdisciplinary global studio practice. As the program progresses, students engage in advanced coursework such as design research methods, circular economy applications, and design practice focused on sustainable manufacturing and components. A major component of the degree is the honours-level applied research sequence, including the Industrial Design Applied Research Project and the Industrial Design Research Thesis, which allow students to investigate complex real-world design problems in depth. In addition, students complete an alternate subject such as mentored industry practice or design innovation experience. The program also includes 80 credit points of elective study, which can be used to complete a major, two minors, or a combination of university-wide electives, including areas like design practice, Indigenous Australian studies, or technology entrepreneurship. This flexible and research-intensive structure prepares graduates for careers in design innovation, industry leadership, entrepreneurship, and further academic study.