The Graduate Diploma in Design (Industrial Design) is a postgraduate qualification typically completed over one year of full-time study, designed to develop advanced skills in the design and development of physical products, systems, interfaces, and environments. The program bridges creative thinking and technical practice, combining design research studio classes, research methods, design theory, and elective subjects. Students gain a deep understanding of the full product design lifecycle — from human-centred concept generation to materials selection, prototyping, manufacturing feasibility, and sustainability. The qualification is structured as an AQF Level 8 award and often forms part of a nested suite of programs, serving as a standalone postgraduate credential or as a pathway into a Master of Design. It is taught by practising design professionals whose industry links ensure an industry-relevant, practically focused curriculum.

This course is designed for graduates from design, engineering, architecture, or related creative disciplines who want to elevate their professional practice, specialise in industrial or product design, or transition from a related field. It also suits experienced practitioners who have not completed a formal design degree but can demonstrate equivalent professional capability. Employers who hire graduates include product development consultancies, consumer goods manufacturers, furniture and homewares companies, medical device firms, automotive and transport businesses, sustainability-focused enterprises, government design agencies, and technology companies. The qualification is recognised by the Design Institute of Australia (DIA), enabling graduates to pursue professional membership and formal industry recognition.

Most Australian universities offering the Graduate Diploma in Design (Industrial Design) require applicants to hold a completed three-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution, preferably in a related discipline such as industrial design, product design, architecture, engineering, or visual arts. Some institutions accept a Bachelor degree in an unrelated discipline provided the applicant also has at least two years of relevant professional experience in a design-related field. Applicants with seven or more years of professional experience in industrial design or a related area may also be considered for entry without a degree, subject to assessment by the admissions team. A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) equivalent to a credit average is typically required, with specific benchmarks varying between institutions. Most programs also require a written statement of intent outlining career goals and reasons for undertaking the qualification.

A strong portfolio of creative and design work is a mandatory component of the application for most programs. Applicants are typically asked to submit a digital portfolio of up to 15 images, accompanied by a curriculum vitae that details software skills, professional experience, and relevant achievements. The portfolio should demonstrate design capability across concept generation, development, and resolved outcomes. Some institutions also require a letter of recommendation from a professional referee for applicants entering via alternative pathways. For international students or those from non-English speaking backgrounds, English language proficiency must be demonstrated, typically via an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or an equivalent result in TOEFL, PTE, or other accepted tests. Some universities set higher English requirements — for example, an IELTS of 7.0 overall — particularly for programs with intensive writing or research components.