On this page

The Diploma of Design and Architecture prepares you for the complete range of exciting degrees offered by the UTS Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building. Our student community enjoy a connected and collaborative learning environment, with a strong emphasis on practical design skills, creative thinking and concept generation.

There are two distinct streams offered: Architecture and Design. You will have the chance to study a combination of visual and spatial design, while taking core subjects in line with those offered at the UTS School of Architecture and the UTS School of Design.

Our course is packed with opportunities to explore your design passions whether it’s architecture, interiors, graphics, products or fashion. The diploma culminates in a work-ready portfolio and collaborative final exhibition.

How do the diplomas compare?

Do you like to learn at a steady pace? Our Standard course delivers the same content as Accelerated, just spread out over 12 months. You'll find this ideal if you want to focus on your studies while enjoying your new life in Australia.
Fees$38,000

FEE-HELP available for eligible domestic students.
UTS College reserves the right to vary fees at any time. You should factor in the likelihood of an annual UTS College fee increase into your budget.

Duration3 semesters (12 months)
CRICOS code082796B
This course is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency (TEQSA) to be offered to both domestic and international students and is recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Entry requirements

Choose country or region where you completed secondary schooling

Button Text
Academic

If you do not meet the academic requirements consider our UTS Foundation Studies.

English

IELTS: 6.0 overall with 6.0 in writing or UTS College AE4 with pass grade.

Find out about accepted alternative English language qualifications at UTS College. 

If you do not meet the English requirements consider our English Language Courses or our Extended Diploma

General

Important note on minimum age requirement

Students are normally expected to be at least 17 years of age at commencement of the Diploma course. Where a student has satisfied both English and Academic entry requirements for the diploma course but is 16 years of age they may start the course. Students under the age of 16 at course commencement will not be given an offer.

Articulation to a UTS degree

International Students: Based on no more than two subject failures.

Domestic Students: Based on the required Grade Point Average.

NB: articulation to the UTS Bachelor of Design in Architecture is only available in the Spring (July) intake for UTS College students. 

Design Stream
Subjects

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Architecture Stream
Subjects

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Do you thrive under pressure? Our accelerated course is the fastest way to get into a UTS degree, but it's not for everyone. The workload is intense and you'll need to be dedicated to your studies to succeed.
Fees$38,000

FEE-HELP available for eligible domestic students.
UTS College reserves the right to vary fees at any time. You should factor in the likelihood of an annual UTS College fee increase into your budget.

Duration2 semesters (8 months)
CRICOS code082795C
This course is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality Standards Agency (TEQSA) to be offered to both domestic and international students and is recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Entry requirements

Choose country or region where you completed secondary schooling

Button Text
Academic

If you do not meet the academic requirements consider our UTS Foundation Studies.

English

IELTS: 6.0 overall with 6.0 in writing or UTS College AE4 with pass grade.

Find out about accepted alternative English language qualifications at UTS College. 

If you do not meet the English requirements consider our English Language Courses or our Extended Diploma

General

Important note on minimum age requirement

Students are normally expected to be at least 17 years of age at commencement of the Diploma course. Where a student has satisfied both English and Academic entry requirements for the diploma course but is 16 years of age they may start the course. Students under the age of 16 at course commencement will not be given an offer.

Articulation to a UTS degree

International Students: Based on no more than two subject failures.

Domestic Students: Based on the required Grade Point Average.

NB: articulation to the UTS Bachelor of Design in Architecture is only available in the Spring (July) intake for UTS College students. 

Design Stream
Subjects

Semester 1

Semester 2

Architecture Stream
Subjects

Semester 1

Semester 2

Course intake & start dates

Semester 1 intake 24 February 2025 28 March 2025
Semester 2 intake 10 June 2025 11 July 2025
Semester 3 intake 22 September 2025 24 October 2025

Orientation dates

Semester 1: 24 - 28 February 2025
Semester 2: 10 - 13 June 2025
Semester 3: 22 - 26 September 2025
Semester 1 intake 23 February 2026 27 March 2026
Semester 2 intake 9 June 2026 10 July 2026
Semester 3 intake 21 September 2026 23 October 2026

Orientation dates

Semester 1: 23 - 27 February 2026
Semester 2: 9 - 12 June 2026
Semester 3: 21 - 25 September 2026

Leads to the following majors at UTS

  • Architecture
  • Interior Architecture
  • Product Design
  • Fashion and Textiles
  • Visual Communication

A July intake for diploma graduates is now available to the UTS Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication.

Modes of study

This course is delivered full time and face-to-face in scheduled on-campus classes.

Assessment methods

Assessment methods in the Diploma of Design and Architecture include quizzes (multiple-choice, calculations, open-ended questions); presentations (group and individual); weekly written reports; design and architecture projects requiring computer and hand drawings, models; critical reflective writing; and functional prototype creation.

Important dates

For full information regarding dates, including holidays, please refer to:

View important dates