CUA30720

Certificate III in Design Fundamentals

Begin your career in design with this entry-level course that will provide you with the fundamentals to work as a Junior Graphic Design Assistant. It will also give you the skills you need to undertake further studies.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast

WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 14 Jul 2025 Duration: 6 months View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Subsidised

$830

Full Fee

$7,260

TAFE at School Full Fee

$3,650

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Kick start your career in design with this entry-level course. This qualification will prepare you to work as a Junior Graphic Design Assistant and provide you the fundamental skills you need to undertake further studies in the field.

Research shows that creativity, communication and problem-solving will be the most desired skills in the future job market.

This qualification will give you the core skills needed to work in both the creative industries and in corporate settings.You will develop practical skills and knowledge to explore the use of colour, produce drawings and generate design solutions.

Our highly experienced and passionate teaching team have years of industry experience and will give you the one-on-one guidance needed to prepare you for a career in media.

What can I do?

Junior Graphic Design Assistant
Design Assistant
Junior Interior Design
Decorator Assistant

Course outcome:

CUA30720 Certificate III in Design Fundamentals

Innovative teaching staff

Our courses are delivered by passionate industry experts with years of experience in the graphic design industry. Our teachers understand the technical aspects of the job and are ahead of the game in innovation and development, preparing you for the next big thing in the industry.

TAFE at School

Get a head start on your career while you're still at high school. Studying a certificate II or certificate III at school gets you a guaranteed spot in any diploma course at TAFE Queensland. It also counts toward your QCE, opens up pathways to university, and makes you job ready sooner.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 5 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CUAACD311

Produce drawings to communicate ideas

UNIT CODE :
CUAACD311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce drawings that represent and communicate ideas. It does not relate to drawing as an art form. It involves planning drawing work, experimenting with ideas and producing drawings.
UNIT NAME
Produce drawings to communicate ideas

UNIT CODE
CUADES201

Follow a design process

UNIT CODE :
CUADES201

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to follow a design process at a basic level, incorporating an element of problem solving to identify and resolve challenges that may hinder the process. It involves establishing the challenges faced in the design process, exploring different ideas for solutions and solving the associated challenges through implementation of solutions.
UNIT NAME
Follow a design process

UNIT CODE
CUADES301

Explore the use of colour

UNIT CODE :
CUADES301

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to explore the use of colour and to apply colour theory. It involves researching colour and colour theory, experimenting with different colours and colour-combinations and communicating different ideas using colour.
UNIT NAME
Explore the use of colour

UNIT CODE
CUADES304

Source and apply design industry knowledge

UNIT CODE :
CUADES304

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to source, apply and update general knowledge of the design industry based on problem solving, aesthetics, materials and processes appropriately used within the design industry. It involves researching information on different features of the industry, applying it to one's own work practice, and remaining up-to-date on industry practices.
UNIT NAME
Source and apply design industry knowledge

UNIT CODE
CUAPPR311

Produce creative work

UNIT CODE :
CUAPPR311

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and produce creative work in any media. Work is typically produced through exploration of ideas, techniques, tools, equipment and materials.
UNIT NAME
Produce creative work

UNIT CODE
CUAWHS312

Apply work health and safety practices

UNIT CODE :
CUAWHS312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply work health and safety (WHS) requirements, including implementing safe work practices, participating in risk assessment and control, and following emergency procedures in the creative industries.
UNIT NAME
Apply work health and safety practices

UNIT CODE
CUADES302

Explore and apply the creative design process to 2D forms

UNIT CODE :
CUADES302

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to explore and creatively apply the design process to the development of two-dimensional (2D) forms. It involves exploring ideas and the creative design process, and communicating different ideas through application of design processes to 2D forms.
UNIT NAME
Explore and apply the creative design process to 2D forms

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CUADES411

Generate design solutions

UNIT CODE :
CUADES411

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to generate design solutions in response to a particular design need.
UNIT NAME
Generate design solutions

UNIT CODE
CUADIG304

Create visual design components

UNIT CODE :
CUADIG304

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create visual designs for interactive media components that can be integrated into a range of media products.
UNIT NAME
Create visual design components

UNIT CODE
CUAGRD312

Use typography techniques

UNIT CODE :
CUAGRD312

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use typography techniques in design work.
UNIT NAME
Use typography techniques

UNIT CODE
ICPPRP2210

Select and apply type

UNIT CODE :
ICPPRP2210

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to undertake basic typesetting tasks, including selecting required fonts, fitting, and proofing final type.
UNIT NAME
Select and apply type

UNIT CODE
ICPPRP224

Produce pages using a page layout application

UNIT CODE :
ICPPRP224

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to compose pages based on a client brief using a high-end application, and covers how to arrange basic elements on a page, finalise artwork and check quality.
UNIT NAME
Produce pages using a page layout application

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2026	6 months	Full time 3 days per week	Subsidised: $830 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $830 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	6 months	Full time 2 days per week Wednesday, Friday	Subsidised: $830 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Coomera On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 6 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 2 days per week Wednesday, Friday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Subsidised: $830 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,260 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	02 Feb 2026	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,650 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 02 Feb 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,650 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Coomera	On Campus	02 Feb 2026	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,650 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Coomera On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 02 Feb 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,650 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

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

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.

Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more

You must be a Year 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school, in some instances Year 10 students may be considered. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.

Course placements are subject to availability.

QCE points: up to 8

Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor, or visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.

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Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (CUA30720)

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Certificate III in Design Fundamentals

COURSE CODE: CUA30720

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

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.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

Skills check

You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 3 in English, 3 in Maths and 3 in Digital Technology.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

Selection criteria

You must have completed year 10 or equivalent.
Enrolment Conditions apply for students under 17 years of age.

Resources required

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. This equipment and software are available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some design resources and a portable external hard drive (500MG minimum). Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation.
Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of approximately $260.

It is also recommended that you have access to a computer capable of running Adobe Creative Suite software. This software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price.

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.

Pathways

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

How to apply

Direct application

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.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, 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.

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. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

Related courses

Diploma of Graphic Design

Embrace your creative flair with this hands-on qualification. This comprehensive course is ideal for people wanting to work in the fast-paced world of graphic design, digital design and visual communications.

Careers

Typesetter
Creative Entrepreneur
Illustrator
Digital Artist
Graphic Designer

Full Time : 1 year

Next Start : 14 Jul 2025

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Certificate III in Design Fundamentals

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Innovative teaching staff

TAFE at School

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

Coomera

South Bank

Coomera

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate III in Design Fundamentals

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Skills check

Selection criteria

Resources required

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Diploma of Graphic Design

Careers