At a glance
Advance your career in building design with this high-level qualification. This course is perfect for people interested in becoming a draftsperson or building designer and who need a Low Rise or Medium Rise Building Design licence.
JOB PROSPECTS
- Draftsperson
- Building Designer
COURSE OUTCOME
CPP50911 Diploma of Building Design
Course overview
Progress your career as a building designer or draftsperson with this advanced qualification from TAFE Queensland. This course meets the technical requirements for you to apply for a Building Design - Low Rise or Building Design - Medium Rise licence.
According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the number of people working as building and surveying technicians grew very strongly over the past five years and is expected to see stable growth in the future. Employers are looking for qualified candidates who are reliable, work well in a team, and have a strong work ethic.
In this course you will learn specialist skills in building design for residential and small-scale commercial projects. You will learn to understand client needs to develop building design concepts and create sustainable design solutions. Utilising a suite of software programs for computer-aided drafting (CAD) and presentation, you will produce and present drawings and models. Our industry-expert teachers will ensure you develop the theoretical and practical skills to produce high quality work that complies with occupational health and safety and building code requirements.
Successful completion of this course will give you the practical skills and knowledge to enter the building design industry and allow you to apply for your Low Rise and Medium Rise Building Design licences.
TAFE Queensland's partnerships with Australia's top universities means you may be credited for your time with us if you decide to upgrade your qualification. Graduates of the Diploma of Building Design may be eligible for advanced standing/credit in relevant university degree programs.
Double your qualifications and career prospects with a double award in building and interior design. Offered at our South Bank and Nambour campuses the Diploma of Building Design / Diploma of Interior Design (CPP50911 / MSF50218) will set you up for a hands-on career helping to bring buildings to life. Learn more
Units
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 10 elective units from the list below.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| CPCCOHS2001A |
Apply OHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry | |
| CPPBDN5001A |
Research construction materials and methods for small-scale residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5003A |
Research compliance requirements for small-scale residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5005A |
Recommend sustainability solutions for small-scale building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5008A |
Develop concepts for small-scale building design projects and finalise solutions with clients | |
| CPPBDN5009A |
Produce compliant client-approved designs for small-scale building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5011A |
Produce compliant client-approved working drawings for small-scale residential buildings | |
Note: Not all electives are available at all campuses.
| UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
|---|---|---|
| Greater Brisbane | ||
| BSBSMB401 |
Establish legal and risk management requirements of small business | |
| CPCCBC4012B |
Read and interpret plans and specifications | |
| CPCCBC4015A |
Prepare specifications for all construction works | |
| CPCCSV5012A |
Assess timber-framed designs for one and two storey buildings | |
| CPPBDN5002A |
Research construction materials and methods for small-scale non-residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5004A |
Research compliance requirements for small-scale non-residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5006A |
Consult with clients to produce approved small-scale building project design briefs | |
| CPPBDN5012A |
Produce and present 3-D models of small-scale building designs | |
| CPPBDN5014A |
Contribute to construction and building design project finalisation processes | |
| CPPBDN5015A |
Produce compliant client-approved working drawings for non-residential buildings | |
| CPPBDN5017A |
Produce 2-D drawings for building design projects using CAD software | |
| Gold Coast | ||
| CPCCBC4012B |
Read and interpret plans and specifications | |
| CPCCBC4015A |
Prepare specifications for all construction works | |
| CPCCSV5012A |
Assess timber-framed designs for one and two storey buildings | |
| CPPBDN5002A |
Research construction materials and methods for small-scale non-residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5004A |
Research compliance requirements for small-scale non-residential building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5006A |
Consult with clients to produce approved small-scale building project design briefs | |
| CPPBDN5007A |
Inspect and analyse sites and produce measured drawings for small-scale building design projects | |
| CPPBDN5012A |
Produce and present 3-D models of small-scale building designs | |
| CPPBDN5015A |
Produce compliant client-approved working drawings for non-residential buildings | |
| CPPBDN5017A |
Produce 2-D drawings for building design projects using CAD software | |
Note: Not all electives are available at all campuses.
Ways to study
Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more
What you need to know about studying on campus
Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing when and where you study. Direct your own learning with all your study materials online, allowing you to manage your own workload and fit your studies around your lifestyle. Access your learning space 24 hours a day, seven days a week and be supported by high-quality educators who are devoted to your outcomes. Learn more
What you need to know about studying online
Intake
For most online courses study is structured into fixed intakes that have set durations of 12 weeks from the study commencement date. You will be able to access your learning materials from the first day of the study period. You must be enrolled to be able to access your learning materials. To ensure you can manage your study load, we recommend limiting your workload to no more than 2 units of competency per intake. In some circumstances, you may be required/able to complete 3 units per intake.
Other online courses such as nursing have different intakes, durations, and workload structures.
As an international student at TAFE Queensland you'll gain hands-on experience in our modern classrooms, laboratories and workshops using state-of-the-art facilities and the same tools and equipment used in industry.
The diversity of our campus locations means you can choose the study location that suits you. Get the internationally-recognised qualification you need to launch your career while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle.
No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.
What you need to know about studying as an International student
As an international student you’ll study face-to-face in a classroom with other international and Australian students at one of our campus locations.
In addition to your scheduled class hours you will be expected to complete additional study in your own time.
The course cost indicated is for students on an international student visa. If you’re visiting Australia on a non-student visa (e.g. partner visa, working holiday, employer sponsor etc.) please contact us directly for the price applicable to you.
Do you need help?
- email us your questions
- call us on +61 7 3244 5100
- find an agent to help with your application
- check out our frequently asked questions (FAQs).
University pathways
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathways
Payment options
No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what's right for you, get in touch. We're here to help.
Upfront payment
This is the total amount you need to pay when you enrol. This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.
Vet Student Loan - $15,793 cap
This is an interest-free personal loan from the Australian Government that provides eligible students access to capped funding to help pay for their studies.
Payment plan
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
International Student Payment
Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Western Union Global Pay for Students. Western Union allows you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more
Important Information
Selection criteria
Domestic Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to Domestic Students:
It is highly recommended that you have:-
- completed Year 12 (or equivalent) or have relevant experience and/or qualifications or are of mature age;
- have sound literacy and numeracy skills; and
- have sound computer skills.
International Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students:
- English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 5.5 (no individual band less than 5.0) or ISLPR 2+ on all skills or other - For a list of all English Language test accepted by TAFE Queensland International
- Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.
Students should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Student visa applicants under the age of 18 will be accepted where they demonstrate that they will be accompanied by a parent, legal custodian or a suitable relative who is aged 21 or over. This arrangement requires the approval of the Department of Home Affairs. For more information visit Department of Home Affairs - Welfare Requirements for Student Visa Applicants under 18.
Resources required
Domestic students
It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.
You must also have access to a CAD or gaming quality computer. Windows machines are ideal as Autodesk programs are not available native to Mac machines. A dual boot system may be used, but there are known issues and no technical support offered for this by TAFE Queensland. Autodesk programs (Revit and AutoCad) can be downloaded for free as educational version. Required Adobe programs and Sketchup are available on campus, but it is recommended that you purchase your own copies to assist in completion of project and assessment work. More information will be supplied after enrolment or during orientation, as this software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price.
You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.
You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some building design resources and a portable external hard drive (no USBs). Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation. Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of approximately $640.
International students
It is recommended that students have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for students to use at all TAFE Queensland locations.
There are additional costs associated with this course, that are not included in your tuition fees. All information on Resources will be given at orientation;
- USB Memory Stick
- Textbooks and other related supplies are generally not included in the cost of the course. More advice regarding books and materials will be supplied at orientation
Courses may require different resources, depending on your study location.
Assessment Methods
Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.
Disclaimer
All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.
How to apply
If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.
You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland.
International students can either apply directly through our application portal Studylink, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfers
Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. Getting recognition for the skills you've gained from the workplace or previous learning means less study time for you, and getting the paper to prove you're qualified a whole lot sooner. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.
Get started with TAFE Queensland
If you have read and understood the student rules, refund policy, understand your fees and payment options, have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) and checked you meet the entry requirements and selection criteria for this course, you're ready to get started.
University pathways
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathways 