Course overview
The Master of Design caters for learners who are eager to become design leaders of the future through either a practice or leadership-oriented pathway, or a combination of both.
The course will deepen your understanding of design practice through theory-based and practical units that draw on contemporary and emerging design fields including experience design, social design and speculative design.
For professionals looking to develop leadership capabilities in design, units focusing on entrepreneurship, design-led innovation and design strategy will prepare you for senior or executive design roles.
Throughout your study you will have the opportunity to learn from experts across a range of design disciplines to inform your practice. You will engage with a community of fellow industry professionals and enterprises beyond the design industry to see how design can fuel innovation.
The course offers three levels of study, with completion of one level providing credit to the next. You can choose to exit the degree at the graduate certificate or graduate diploma level.
Hear from our students
"I completed a master's in architecture in Italy and decided to broaden my horizons and pursue a Master of Design at Curtin. I really enjoyed how the units developed my curiosity and passion for understanding complex topics in everyday life. I have also enjoyed the Curtin campus and the connections that I made with colleagues that share my interests."
Alessia Concetti
Master of Design
Your student experience
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Find your entry pathway to Curtin
You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Upcoming events
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Entry requirements
Applicants are required to have either: work experience in Design or cognate areas, or a Bachelor degree in Design or cognate areas to enter this course. Applicants with work experience or a Bachelor degree in non-cognate areas, or other pathways, should contact the Course Coordinator.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
Domestic fee-paying first-year fee
$23,484*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 credit points. Your fees will vary depending on the units you choose.
- This indicative fee does not include other fees like administrative and incidental fees (such as lab coats or art supplies) or the cost of your textbooks. Visit other fees and charges for more information.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Your application pathway
To apply for this course, you’ll apply directly to Curtin via our online applications portal.
Choose your preferred campus to find the application opening and closing dates for this course before you apply.
Select your preferred campus
| Intake | Applications open | Applications close |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Applications now open | 5 Jul 2026 |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Applications now open | 28 Jan 2027 |
| Semester 2, 2027 | 1 Mar 2027 | 1 Jul 2027 |
Location and delivery
Thinking about starting soon? Course availability can vary by location and study period. Check the course handbook for details on when and where you can start your studies.
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Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.