Course Overview

About This Course

SAE's Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication is much more than visual aesthetics. This multifaceted course provides students with a detailed understanding of design principles, coupled with hands-on experience of design in the contemporary world. Explore branding and identity design, online and print design, user-centered design and digital image-making. Learn to apply a strategic, entrepreneurial eye to design briefs and become adept at creative problem-solving.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

OnlineAdelaideWest EndBYRON BAYSOUTH MELBOURNENorthbridgeChippendale

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (QCE, WACE, HSC, SACE, etc.), like your Year 12 certificate or equivalent; OR
Completion of a Certificate IV level qualification, or higher, issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF); OR
For applicants who do not meet the requirements of the above entry criteria, refer to SAE's Experience Based Entry scheme.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers as Graphic Designer, Content Manager, Print and Digital Designer, Social Media Designer, UX Designer, UI Designer, Creative Director, Branding and Identity Designer, and Art Director. With a Bachelor of Design and Visual Communication, graduates can work in large corporations or small agencies, as a freelancer, or as part of an entrepreneurial project team in any industry.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units4 units

DIM111

Scholarly Perspectives on Design

Learn about the ideas and concepts of design. Discover the art of presenting and defending a point of view in a convincing and effective way by referring to valid and trustworthy sources. Develop critical thinking skills and delve into the history and language of the design industry.

DDX170

Principles of Design

Learn about the principles of design through creating vector graphics in the form of motifs, pictorial marks and logos using Adobe Illustrator and other tools. Introduces visual rules that can be applied in the creation of any image to enhance their impact, attractiveness and ability to communicate.

DDX171

Fundamentals of Image Making

Learn about illustration and the creative and technical production of digital images using Photoshop and other tools. Explore a range of drawing techniques and tools including processes of iteration and refinement, and investigate visual storytelling through the development of a series of images.

DDX174

Design for Print Media

Learn about designing page layouts for print through the combination of images and typography.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication available on-campus?

No, the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication is currently available online only, and is open to domestic students only. It is delivered fully virtually with interactive sessions, discussions, and expert support.

How long does it take to complete the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication?

There are multiple study load options: you can complete the course in 6 trimesters (approximately 2 years) via the Fast Track option, 8 trimesters (approximately 2.5 years) full time, or 9 trimesters (approximately 3 years) full time. A part-time option is also available for domestic students who need additional flexibility, though part-time is not available for international students.

What are the fees for the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication?

The course comprises 20 units at $2,999 each and 2 units at $5,998 each, with an indicative annual course fee of $23,992 AUD (based on 1.0 EFTSL). A Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is also charged. FEE-HELP is available for eligible domestic students.

What topics will I study in the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication?

The course covers branding and identity design, online and print design, user-centered design, and digital image-making. The course structure is broken into three stages: Stage 1 (Foundations) develops essential technical design skills and knowledge required to collaborate with other creative media students and professionals. Units include Scholarly Perspectives on Design, Principles of Design, Fundamentals of Image Making, and Design for Print Media.

When can I start the Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication online?

The online Bachelor of Design & Visual Communication has the following upcoming start dates: May 2026, September 2026, and February 2027.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $50,000 to $65,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $65,000 to $85,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $85,000 to $105,000 per year

Career Paths

Graphic DesignerVisual DesignerDigital DesignerCommunication DesignerBrand Designer

Key Skills

Visual communication and design thinkingTypography selection, pairing, and layoutColour theory and brand colour system developmentAdobe Creative Suite proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)Branding and brand identity design

Full Course Overview

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