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ARB301 | CRICOS: 102460A | Provider: 00212K

Bachelor of Digital Design (Digital Media)

In partnership with the University of Canberra

Take the next step in your digital media career with this degree. Gain specialist knowledge and skills needed to work across a range of creative areas from animation to virtual reality (VR).

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 03 Feb 2025 Duration: 3 years View all intakes
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
Domestic

This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

$8,020

Course overview

Take the next step in your digital media career with this degree and gain specialist knowledge and skills needed to work across a range of creative areas from animation to virtual reality (VR). Delivered in partnership with the University of Canberra, you'll develop the expertise required to create complex interactive media.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, demand for multimedia specialists is increasing. With over 10,000 job openings expected over the next five years the industry is experiencing very strong growth.

During this course you will develop an understanding of how digital technology has revolutionised the way we communicate, work, learn and play. You'll gain up-to-date skills using industry-standard technologies in virtual and augmented reality, digital photography, digital audio, interactive fiction, video and animation. You'll also have the opportunity to combine university thinking with hands-on learning through project work, internships, professional experience and mentorships.

Upon successful completion you may be able to find work across a range of creative areas.

What can I do?

  • Digital Media Designer
  • Digital Media Producer
  • Multimedia Artist
  • Animator
  • Digital Photographer
  • Videographer
  • Virtual and Augmented Reality Designer
  • Creative Director

Course outcome:

ARB301 Bachelor of Digital Design (Digital Media)

UC Brisbane Digital Design Degrees

Gain practical experience and develop key employability skills including communication, teamwork, and critical, creative and strategic thinking. Learn from industry professionals whilst studying in Brisbane, graduate with real-world experience, ready to impress employers and launch your digital design career.

Specialised training facilities

Our degrees are delivered here at TAFE Queensland, on our modern campuses, using world-class facilities and equipment. Across creative, dentistry, engineering and information technology, our learning spaces are at the forefront of new technology, offering students the benefit of learning on industry-leading equipment.

What you will study

If you have completed the below diploma, you will gain up to a year's credit towards towards this qualification.

This is a typical study pattern and may differ depending on credit received. Please note not all units are offered in each teaching period.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

Year 1 Semester 1

  • Year 1 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11611
    Interactive Media, Design and Prototypes - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11611
    Unit description :
    The unit will provide students with an applied introduction to interaction and user-centred design. Students will develop web-based prototypes, demonstrating understanding of theoretical and practical concepts. The unit will explore the use of interactive technologies in the creation of web-based prototypes. Basic coding will provide students with the skills to demonstrate techniques that are transferable across diverse mediums. This unit will also introduce students to the human-centred design principles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Interactive Media, Design and Prototypes - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11591
    Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11591
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the diverse opportunities in the world of creative and digital design industries. Aspects that will be considered include: contemporary demands of the industry including social responsibility, ethical and sustainability issues. Through engagement with industry and community, students will gain an understanding of global discipline knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform as responsible, capable creative industry and digital design professionals. Students will start their career awareness and planning through approaches such as five year plans and ePortfolios.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Orientation (Creative Industries and digital Design) - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11613
    Visual Ideation and Communication - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11613
    Unit description :
    Students will develop skills and techniques in creating visuals for ideation and communication across diverse creative and design industries. Students will sketch, draw and create digital media, using a variety of tools. The ability to understand, interpret, produce and communicate a response to a design brief is integral to this unit. Students will be able to articulate concepts through drawing, digital media and photography to convey meaning and context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Visual Ideation and Communication - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11837
    Digital Media Art 1: Narrative Production
    UNIT CODE :
    11837
    Unit description :
    At their best, stories can create imaginary worlds in the mind of the reader. Technologies - be they printed pages or computers - mediate ideas and open new possibilities for authors to present their stories to their readers or viewers. In this unit we look at the ways that stories are mediated by modern technologies and consider how technology changes stories. Rather than working purely in the realm of theory, we explore and engage with concepts by building stories in media technologies. This unit complements Digital Media Art 2: Image Production by encouraging students to develop strategies for self-directed learning of unfamiliar technologies.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Digital Media Art 1: Narrative Production
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 1 Semester 2

  • Year 1 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11610
    Evolution of Design - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11610
    Unit description :
    The unit will explore historical and contemporary roles of design in society. Analysis and discussion of design products (including graphics, objects, environments and digital outcomes) can aid in the understanding of trends that have evolved over time. This unit, through the critical analysis of the history of design, will provide an understanding of human-centred design as creative approach to problem solving.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Evolution of Design - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11612
    Introduction to Innovative Design Solutions - Level 1
    UNIT CODE :
    11612
    Unit description :
    This unit introduces students to the design process and evolution of design solutions. Students will be exposed to the fundamentals of design research and identifying user-centred design solutions. This unit will also introduce students to the human-centred design principles. The use of real-world problems will provide students with the application skills required to create a solution to a design problem.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Introduction to Innovative Design Solutions - Level 1
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11836
    Digital Media Art 2: Image Production
    UNIT CODE :
    11836
    Unit description :
    This unit explores the forms, techniques and technologies that are used in the creative media industries to create digital images. It looks at the uses of image editing software like photoshop to create photo-based images, the creation of art in a purely digital workspace, and the ways images can be applied in still, moving, 2D and 3D contexts. This unit is designed to be valuable both to the digital media novice as well as students with previous experience. Through practical application of a selection of technologies, the unit provides students with an in-depth understanding of how modern media works, how we can use modern digital tools to express ideas, and how practitioners stay on top of an industry that always seems to be doing something new.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Digital Media Art 2: Image Production
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 1

  • Year 2 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11134
    Sound Design - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11134
    Unit description :
    From film to animation and games, sound is an essential part of modern media, yet its importance is often overshadowed by our heavy bias for visual media. In this unit we look at the theory and practice of sound in digital media. Working with modern audio tools and techniques we will develop the skills and knowledge that are needed for the creation, editing and integration of digital audio for stand-alone and mixed media works.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Sound Design - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11131
    Space, Time and Form - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11131
    Unit description :
    Using industry-standard modelling software, this unit teaches students the principles of creating digital forms in 3D space and how to animate them using simple mesh and object transformations and physical system simulations. With reference to historical and contemporary 3D media, students will explore the creative use of camera placement, lighting, material shaders and rendering techniques to achieve a variety of aesthetic outcomes.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Space, Time and Form - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11838
    3D Media Art Production
    UNIT CODE :
    11838
    Unit description :
    Using industry-standard modelling software, this unit teaches students the principles of creating digital forms in 3D space and how to animate them using simple mesh and object transformations and physical system simulations. With reference to historical and contemporary 3D media, students will explore the creative use of camera placement, lighting, material shaders and rendering techniques to achieve a variety of aesthetic outcomes.
  • UNIT NAME
  • 3D Media Art Production
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 2 Semester 2

  • Year 2 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11064
    Design for Digital Contexts - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11064
    Unit description :
    This unit considers how principles of visual communication design can be applied within digital contexts. Students will obtain a theoretical understanding of the digital design process and learn how to utilise emerging development methodologies whilst producing highly creative and innovative digital prototypes. This process of development will allow students to understand the fundamental connection between the underlying code and the digital work a user can experience and interact with.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Design for Digital Contexts - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11133
    Character Design and Animation - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11133
    Unit description :
    In this unit we look at the tools and techniques that are used to create animated three-dimensional characters. Starting with ideation, we move from character concept through modelling and rigging and on to animation, exploring techniques including inverse kinematics and motion capture. This technical process will be used as the basis for a structured exploration of the ways that character animation has evolved and the knowledge that animators use to bring their characters to life.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Character Design and Animation - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11017
    Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    UNIT CODE :
    11017
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will work with academics, peers and industry partners to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop employability skills and strengthen the disciplinary skills and knowledge needed to contribute to and excel in their professions. Authentic learning experiences will include simulated workplace experiences, industry collaborations, competitions, internships, exhibitions or studio work.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 1: Work Integrated Learning - Level 2
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 1

  • Year 3 Semester 1

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11018
    Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11018
    Unit description :
    In this unit students will further develop their abilities as agile professionals with the transferable employability skills and critical and creative abilities to work across industries and sectors and craft diverse employment paths. They will integrate disciplinary knowledge with the professional skills required in their industry through authentic simulated or real workplace experiences, international exchanges or industry collaborations or projects.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Practice 2: Work Integrated Learning - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11839
    Emerging Production Technologies
    UNIT CODE :
    11839
    Unit description :
    This unit provides a platform for students to develop in-depth understanding and skills in one area of technological media development. This may include learning and demonstrating the use of new tools, processes, workflows and/or principles for the production of digital media technologies. The unit is open to advanced level students from a wide range of disciplines who work with the production of digital assets. The unit supports students in self-directed learning by exposing students to a range of emerging practices and providing practical advice and assistance from experienced tutors. Tutors work closely with students to help them deliver a proof of concept application of the studied tool, process, workflow or principle.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Emerging Production Technologies
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

Year 3 Semester 2

  • Year 3 Semester 2

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11592
    Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    UNIT CODE :
    11592
    Unit description :
    This unit prepares students for professional work in the cultural sector and finalises and reviews your ePortfolio. Through practical activities, such as preparing a grant application, developing a team-based project proposal, and researching a cultural organisation, students learn to relate their discipline specific knowledge to a range of professional contexts. The unit will emphasise the significance of multiculturalism, cultural consumption and globalisation as key influences shaping cultural work in the twenty first century.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Professional Evidence (Creative Industries and Digital Design) - Level 3
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • 11840
    Digital Production Project
    UNIT CODE :
    11840
    Unit description :
    In this studio-based unit students apply their knowledge and skills in digital media production to build creative cutting-edge works designed to delight, surprise and showcase the potential of modern digital media production. These works may be animation-based, video-based or interactive, depending on each individual's preference, and can be team-based or individual projects. Students are given a lot of creative license to show off their skills, but are expected to plan and scope their work carefully, and to put significant effort into documentation and presentation of the final works.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Digital Production Project
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)

  • UNIT CODE
  • OEU
    Open Elective Unit
    UNIT CODE :
    OEU
    Unit description :
  • UNIT NAME
  • Open Elective Unit
    (Credit points: 3)
Ways to study
  • 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

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
South Bank
On Campus
03 Feb 2025
3 years
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

demo

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. 

03 Feb 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
28 Jul 2025
3 years
Full time up to 5 days per week
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

demo

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. 

28 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

3 years
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 5 days per week
ANNUAL INDICATIVE COST
  • Domestic: $8,020

    This is an indicative fee for one year of full-time study for domestic students. Fees will vary based on selected units and study load.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Bachelor of Digital Design (Digital Media) (ARB301)

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Bachelor of Digital Design (Digital Media)

COURSE CODE: ARB301
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
HECS help

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme for eligible students studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place, that covers the cost of your tuition fees on your behalf.

Learn more

 

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Admission into this course is based on an entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by the following means:

  • Year 12 ATAR
  • diploma pathway
  • other Australian qualification
  • work experience
  • overseas qualification

We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to university via alternate pathway programs and admission schemes. More information is available on the University of Canberra website.

Resources required

It is recommended that students have access to a reliable internet connection to access the University of Canberra’s online learning system Canvas, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for students to use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Placement

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is embedded within this degree.

Important information

Articulation:

  • Any one-year TAFE Diploma (or equivalent) can articulate with 24 credit point transfer, which equates to one year of full time study (or 8 units).
  • 24 credit point transfer, which equates to one year of full time study (or 8 units) from any other degree program.

Student Services and Amenities Fee:
You will be required to pay a SSAF.

Pathways to Honours:

The Bachelor of Arts and Design (Honours) is open to students who have completed a UC/TAFE QLD partnership degree with at least a grade point average of 5.0 or better (equivalent to a credit average), or students from a three-year degree in a cognate discipline with a relevant major in which they received a grade point average of 5.0 or better.

Pass degree graduates in similar disciplinary fields from other universities, with comparable results, may also be eligible to undertake this honours degree.

 

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.

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. 

Apply through QTAC

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.

Course 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.