Bachelor of Design (B-DES) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

On completion of this course, graduates should be able to demonstrate:

• cognitive skills to review critically, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge about their discipline;
• cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of design with depth in at least one discipline;
• cognitive and creative skills to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving design problems with intellectual independence; and
• communication skills to present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas.

Graduates of a Bachelor Degree will demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills:

• by applying a broad knowledge of design across a range of disciplines with in-depth knowledge in at least one area of study;
• through the application of knowledge of the local and global contexts in which their discipline is practised;
• through the application of project-based learning, incorporating critical, analytical and methodological skills relevant to the identification and resolution of problems in practical and creative ways;
• by applying appropriate methods of research and investigation in addressing problems;
• by demonstrating an understanding of the social, professional, historical and theoretical contexts of the appropriate discipline;
• by evaluating the role of design in addressing current issues facing local and global communities;
• through an understanding of principles of sustainability and ethics appropriate to the discipline;
• by demonstrating skills and use of technologies to enable production of designed outcomes appropriate to the relevant discipline; and
• through communicating clearly and convincingly about design, technology, practice and future contributions to expert and non-expert audiences.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Design will possess comprehensive knowledge and skills through completion of at least one major in a specific discipline. Double majors, minors, specialisations and electives taken from subjects offered within the degree ensure that Bachelor of Design graduates have interdisciplinary perspective in the areas of the built environment, design, engineering, visual and performance design and technology, and breadth offerings offer graduates new ways of thinking in areas distinct from their major.

Students will have access to site visits, field trips, subjects taught by world renowned academics and industry based practitioners, participation in classes with real-world design briefs, and advanced fabrication technologies. Graduates of the Bachelor of Design with the skills to enter the workforce directly, go on to graduate study and then enter a profession or to a research higher degree.

Exposure to a range of disciplines within the Bachelor of Design will ensure students are able to critically examine different types of knowledge. Students will have access to diverse learning experiences in settings ranging from the lecture theatre and tutorial rooms to the design studio, stage, and scientific and computer laboratories.

Bachelor of Design graduates will be characterised by their creative, flexible and multi-disciplinary approach. Graduates will possess strong written, oral and graphical communication techniques, and will develop practical skills and apply these to problem-solving.

Bachelor of Design graduates will be exposed to working independently and in teams; to become adept at finding information for themselves through research and experimental activities; and to use a wide range of technological applications. Throughout the Bachelor of Design, a strong sense of professional ethics, intellectual integrity and social responsibility will be instilled in students. Graduates will be aware of their responsibilities to shape and manage their professional environments in a sustainable way.